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MetaClinic Minute

The MetaClinic Minute is a quick health tip, you can read in a minute or less, that will help you live a longer and healthier life.

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What’s the deal with probiotics?

You see the commercials and hear people talking about probiotics all the time. So what are they, and should you consider taking them?

Probiotics are a combination of live, beneficial bacteria and live yeast cultures that live in your digestive system. Maintaining a good balance of these in your gut keeps you healthy. Probiotic supplements can help maintain that healthy balance.

Why would I put MORE bacteria into my body?

Fair question. There are good bacteria and bad bacteria in your body. In fact, it’s estimated that you have about a QUADRILLION microorganisms (bacteria, molds, viruses, etc.) in your intestines alone. Maintaining a balance of approximately 85% good to 15% bad bacteria is believed to be healthy, and help you:

Improve digestion
Reduce toxins in your body
Strengthen your immune system
Promote heart health
And more

Where can I get these bacteria?

If you’d like to try probiotics and see if they improve your health, you can try one of the MANY probiotic supplements on the market. (There are literally HUNDREDS of brands out there – so, if you can, try to find one with some scientific testing backing it up.)

Or, you can get your good bacteria the natural way – through foods (many of which are fermented) that contain live microorganisms such as:

  • Yogurt, especially plain Greek yogurt

  • Kefir, a tangy, fermented dairy drink

  • Sauerkraut

  • Pickles (not made with vinegar)

  • Kimchi, a spicy Korean cabbage dish

  • Some kinds of cheese (ie. Some gouda, mozzarella, and cottage cheeses)

If you are having digestive issues, and trying probiotics didn’t help, contact your MetaClinic at 844-774-HEALTH (4325) and schedule an appointment.

(SOURCES: https://www.health.harvard.edu/; https://my.clevelandclinic.org/ )

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