Gut health isn’t something we should take lightly. We hear frequently from doctors, nutritionists and health gurus alike that the result of a “clean” gut will lead to the miracle cure of conditions such as bloating, constipation and diarrhea. But, did you also know a clean and healthy gut can also lead to a boost in mood and energy, as well as clear up your skin leaving a bright and glowing complexion? And there’s plenty of evidence to back it up.
In simple terms, a clean and healthy inside will be reflected in more ways than one – the main being leaving your skin glowing from the inside out. The best way to ensure a happy gut? Probiotics.
What is a probiotic?
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for you, especially your digestive system. The human body is full of bacteria, both good and bad and probiotics are often called the good or “helpful” bacteria because they help to keep the gut healthy. They support healthy body systems from your mouth to your gut, and help control harmful microorganisms like germs. At the right levels, probiotics aid digestion and improve nutrient absorption. This in turn, leads to the positive side effects such as bright and clear skin.
Where can you find probiotics?
There are many ways you can introduce probiotics into your diet. You can consume probiotics by taking supplements or eating fermented foods. You can add more foods like the ones listed below to your diet or you can buy a selection of probiotic supplements online and in-store.
Some of the most commonly found fermented foods include:
- Yogurt
- Sauerkraut
- Kimchi
- Kombucha
- Pickles
- Kefir
- Olives
- Miso
How can probiotics help with skin?
Probiotics promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria and have been linked to a wide range of health benefits. If you want to experience any of the health benefits discussed below, it’s important that you consume adequate amounts of probiotics. While they are known to help digestive problems, there are also positive effects to skin health. These are listed below.
Probiotics reduce the severity of eczema:
Certain probiotic strains may reduce the severity of eczema. While there are more than 400 different strains of probiotics. Lactobacillus rhamnosus and bifidobacteria are among the strains commonly used for eczema.
Probiotics promote the growth of natural bacteria in the skin:
Some topical probiotic products contain prebiotics as they promote the growth of healthy microorganisms that live on your skin. To put it simply, probiotics contain the “good guys” and prebiotics contain what those good guys like to consume to ensure their survival and growth. Probiotics are metabolic bi-products of the natural bacteria, and these – such as enzymes, organic acids and peptides – are powerful molecules that further reinforce your skin’s health.
Probiotics can help clear up acne:
While more research is needed to know exactly why probiotics are good for your skin, they have been known to promote clean skin and reduce the severity of breakouts. According to Beckley Boutique, when the body has harmful microorganisms in it, the immune system is triggered to jump into action and fight back. The battle produces inflammation as the immune system clashes with the invading microbes. Taking probiotics topically, internally or both is thought to calm that inflammatory response and reduce the incidence of acne breakouts.
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