Probiotic supplements are products that are consumable and contain healthy bacteria that are helpful and good for health. These bacteria are categorized as beneficial and favorable majorly for the digestive system. The human body has many types of bacteria from which some are healthy and beneficial and others are harmful that cause diseases and infections. The disproportion in the levels of the bacteria is what causes damage to overall health and well-being of humans. Probiotic products help in maintaining the balance of the bacteria for better health. Probiotic products are mostly fermented and sour in taste. There are products available as supplements at the counters apart from the natural homemade probiotic foods.

What all products are probiotic?

• Yogurt
  It is made from milk and fermented with bacteria. It is one of the most common and popular sources of probiotics.
• Buttermilk
  It is a sour drink made from milk. The butter is removed from the milk and the remaining liquid is used as a probiotic drink.
• Kimchi
  It has its origin from Korea. It is a side dish that is consumed along with other meals during the day. It is a dish prepared by fermenting cabbage, carrot and other raw vegetables.
• Pickle
  It is a side dish made out of soaking vegetables that are fermented and preserved in vinegar.
• Kefir
  It is a sour drink made with fermented cow or goat milk by adding kefir grains. It contains gut-friendly bacteria and is considered one of the best health product.
• Sauerkraut
  It is a German origin product made with cabbage leaves and fermented with bacteria. Cabbage is finely chopped and pickled by soaking in salt or sour liquid.
• Tempeh
  It is a traditional Indonesian product made with soybeans. The soybeans are fermented and deep fried making it a protein-rich product.
• Miso
  This is a Japanese probiotic product made of soybeans. It is a paste made by fermenting soybeans, rice, salt, etc. It is high in protein and used for soups or flavor in Japanese cooking.
• Natto
  It is a traditional Japanese food majorly used for breakfast food. It is prepared from steamed and fermented soya beans that are sticky and slimy in texture with a strong aroma.

What are the side effects of probiotic supplements?

Probiotic products are extremely useful however when consumed in a large or excessive amount it may be harmful as well. Probiotic supplements may not be beneficial for people with lactose intolerance or any other allergies from milk, vinegar, etc. Consumption of these products may also make a person feel excessive thirst. It may also lead to bloating and gas in the body in some cases. To avoid any side effects, make sure you have a balanced probiotic diet to remain healthy.

Probiotic supplements are beneficial for health as they:

• Help balance the bacteria levels in the body for overall health
• Help in problems related to digestion e.g. diarrhea, constipation, etc.
• Help reduce allergies, eczema, etc.
• Help increase immunity levels in the body
• Help reduce belly fat and overall body weight
• Help in maintaining oral health
• Help in urinary or vaginal health
• Improve skin condition
• Help to maintain a healthy heart
• Help in maintaining emotional and mental health by reducing depression
• Help in treating irritable bowel syndrome and diarrhea caused by antibiotics.