Chronic inflammation is linked to obesity and metabolic disorders. Probiotics have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gut and throughout the body. By reducing inflammation, probiotics may support improved metabolic health and weight management.
Probiotics can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce insulin resistance, which are key factors in the development of obesity and metabolic syndrome. By promoting better blood sugar control, probiotics may support weight loss and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Probiotic strains in VitaBright Bio Cultures that are studied for their potential to help with dieting:
- Lactobacillus gasseri - Shown to reduce abdominal fat and body weight in some studies.
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus - May help reduce body weight and fat mass by promoting fat oxidation and appetite regulation.
- Bifidobacterium breve - Can support weight loss by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation.
The Best Probiotics for IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
Probiotics can play a crucial role in managing IBS by helping to restore balance in the gut microbiome, reducing symptoms like bloating, diarrhoea, constipation, and abdominal pain. There are some theories that IBS is caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the large intestine, and the build up of troublesome bacteria in the small intestine, which should be largely free of bacteria. An excess of sulphur-reducing bacteria will cause a tendency to diarrhoea, whereas an excess of methane-producers (including archaea) lead to chronic constipation. Severe or fluctuating inflammation of the intestine is associated with alternating periods of diarrhoea and constipation.
It’s certain that people with IBS need extra help to maintain a balanced gut microbiome. Certain probiotic strains in our Bio Cultures probiotic supplements have been widely researched for their benefits in IBS:
- Lactobacillus plantarum (1 Billion CFU) – One of the most researched probiotic strains for IBS, L. plantarum helps reduce bloating, abdominal pain, and gut inflammation. It also strengthens the gut barrier and regulates bowel movements.
- Bifidobacterium longum (1 Billion CFU) – This strain has been shown to help regulate the gut microbiome, reduce gut inflammation, and improve symptoms like bloating and discomfort. It is particularly beneficial for overall digestive balance.
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus (1 Billion CFU) – Known for its ability to reduce gut inflammation and improve gut motility, L. rhamnosus can help relieve IBS-related diarrhoea and abdominal pain while supporting gut barrier function.
Probiotic Supplements for the Immune System
The gut microbiome interacts closely with the immune system, influencing its development, function and response to infections. A balanced gut microbiome is essential for a healthy immune system as it supports the development and function of immune cells.
Probiotics help strengthen the gut barrier, also known as the intestinal epithelial barrier, which serves as the first line of defence against pathogens and harmful substances. A healthy gut barrier prevents the entry of pathogens and toxins into the bloodstream, reducing the risk of infections and inflammation.
Probiotics can stimulate the activity and function of immune cells, including macrophages, dendritic cells, and T and B lymphocytes, which play crucial roles in identifying and eliminating pathogens. Probiotics can modulate immune signalling pathways, such as the NF-kB pathway and Toll-like receptor (TLR) signalling, to enhance immune responses against infections and promote immune tolerance to prevent autoimmune reactions. Probiotics produce anti-inflammatory compounds, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and certain metabolites, which help reduce inflammation and regulate immune responses to prevent excessive inflammation and tissue damage.
Probiotics compete with pathogenic bacteria for nutrients and colonisation sites in the gut, preventing the overgrowth of harmful bacteria and reducing the risk of infections. Some probiotic strains produce antimicrobial substances, such as bacteriocins and hydrogen peroxide, which have direct antimicrobial activity against pathogenic bacteria, viruses, and fungi, supporting a healthier gut environment.
Three of the strongest immune-supporters in our the VitaBright probiotic Bio Cultures supplement:
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) - Known for its immune-enhancing properties and ability to reduce the duration and severity of respiratory infections.
- Bifidobacterium lactis - Shown to enhance immune responses and reduce the risk of respiratory and gastrointestinal infections.
- Lactobacillus casei - May support immune function and reduce the risk of respiratory infections in children and adults.
The Best Probiotics for Gut Health
Probiotics that keep replenishing a healthy gut microbiome are essential for gut health. These friendly bacteria are essential for us to digest food, they’re a core part of our immune defences and they also help protect the delicate skin inside our intestines, through which we absorb nutrients.
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus - one of the most researched probiotics for overall digestive health, helping to reduce gut inflammation and support a strong intestinal lining.
- Bifidobacterium longum - known to aid in digestion and protect against harmful bacteria
- Lactobacillus acidophilus - supports the breakdown of food and enhances the production of beneficial gut metabolites.
Taking Probiotic Supplements Safely
VitaBright sells a wide variety of nutritional supplements. Food supplements should be an addition to a varied and balanced diet, not a replacement for it. If you are pregnant, lactating, taking medication or being treated for an illness, or if you’re not an adult yet, it’s wise to consult your GP or pharmacist before taking supplements.
VitaBright produces a comprehensive range of vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements to support a variety of health needs. Never take more than the recommended dose of any supplement. If you get any side effects from a supplement, stop taking it immediately and consult a GP.
