We often talk about probiotics but without knowing their characteristics, functions and above all what they can do in our body. We are well aware that they are essential to live more serenely with our intestines, but they also perform other very important functions that we are often not aware of.
Let's take an example: what if the problem was constipation? Which probiotic do you prefer among all?
Today we want to talk to you about this and understand which is the best probiotic for constipation, after having made a general overview of the basic functions of each and having known them closely.
Probiotics: what they are and why to use them
By definition, we mean by probiotics a set of live, active microorganisms that take care of our health by defending the intestine and fighting against the proliferation of so-called "bad" bacteria because they are harmful to humans. Their action takes place from within, creating an unfavorable ecosystem that makes it difficult for them to grow.
When to use them? They can be used daily to guarantee well-being and health, or taken more assiduously if intestinal problems occur. But there is one factor to pay attention to if you decide to have probiotics as health allies: they must be many and above all alive. In fact, they are effective only if they have the ability to resist gastric juices and bile.
After countless studies conducted on probiotics we can say that they really work and are capable of rebalancing the microbiota in a completely natural way.
Why use them? The reasons are different but we can summarize as follows:
- Probiotics can defend the body against germs and even viruses (even seasonal ones such as flu viruses);
- They naturally strengthen the immune system and the body's defenses;
- They help in case of irritable colon;
- They can prevent certain infections, for example those of the intimate type;
- They can fight constipation;
- They relieve symptoms related to symptoms relating to abdominal difficulties such as swelling or diarrhea.
Their action is so strong that probiotics are now widely used to cure or alleviate or prevent many cases of various types of disorders.
What probiotics do we know?
What probiotics do you know? Information is essential if you have specific problems and want to find a targeted solution in the form of probiotics. This is why we want to give you a general overview of the main types of existing microorganisms that allow you to understand which one to choose to aim for certain results.
Here are the most important and well-known:
- Lactobacillus acidophilus. Regulates cholesterol levels, fights swelling and helps rebalance the microbiota.
- Lactobacillus bulgaricus. It has an antibiotic action. It becomes indispensable in case of infections or dermatitis.
- Lactobacillus Rhamnosus. Stimulates the formation of lactic acid in the intestine. This action serves to counteract the proliferation of harmful bacteria and welcome, on the other hand, the lactobacilli.
- Lactobacillus casei. It is used when there are episodes of continuous diarrhea, swelling, constipation, meteorism or other gastrointestinal disorders.
- Bifidobacterium Bifidum. Indicated to facilitate the absorption of vitamins B or calcium.
When you buy a yogurt (to give a trivial example) it is important to read the nutritional labels to know which microorganism it contains and therefore whether it is right for you or it is better to choose another one. From the list just drawn up it is clear that the most suitable microorganisms in cases of constipation are Lactobacillus casei.
The best probiotic for constipation: some useful advice in choosing
But what is the best probiotic for constipation that can solve this intestinal problem? Let's make a very short ranking to identify the best choices in our opinion.
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut is a food rich in probiotics. These are fermented raw cabbages with a very strong acid taste, which help in case of intestinal problems. Their action is perfect for those suffering from constipation. The combination of fibers and minerals allows this healthy food to facilitate intestinal processes, with the help of live microorganisms that derive from fermentation and ensure good functionality of the digestive system.
Therefore they become allies on the table against constipation, but also against bloating and intestinal gas. Nutritionists also often recommend them in personalized diets because they help to lose weight without cutting off the supply of essential nutrients.
Yogurt and kefir
Both probiotic yoghurts and typical kefir are excellent against constipation, even chronic.
In both cases we are talking about fresh products, far from the fixed expiry date and therefore rich in all the probiotic microorganisms necessary to help the intestinal ecosystem and its functions.
The probiotic yogurt regulates the intestinal tract with a simple daily consumption. It has a high numerical content of live lactic ferments, especially if you choose the natural one, which is obviously without preservatives or additives.
And then there's kefir, similar to yogurt but with many more probiotics inside. Indicated to restore the bacterial flora, restoring the right balance and thus counteracting the bacterial alteration typical of those suffering from constipation.
In addition to defeating harmful bacteria and toxins, it is useful for strengthening the immune system.
Kombucha
An interesting novelty for those who have to solve constipation problems is the Kombucha. It is a fermented drink that cleanses the intestines and promotes detoxification by eliminating anything that may be blocking the intestinal tract.
Its probiotic load is so high that it has actually become a natural, thirst-quenching and easy-to-use remedy for many people who want to feel good without compromise.
What other foods are probiotics found in?
We have defined the three foods richest in probiotics that can relieve the discomfort related to constipation. In general, however, probiotics are found in many other foods which in any case promote global well-being and certainly the rebalancing of the microbiota. We mention a few: cucumbers, tempeh, olives, natto, miso.
However, not everyone is suitable for constipation, so it is advisable not to rely on chance but to contact your doctor to avoid making the problem worse by looking for natural probiotics in the wrong foods.
How to take probiotics and where to buy them
The method of taking probiotics must be precise and not excessive. The advice is to consume one probiotic food a day, or if we are talking about lactic ferments it is good to know how to take them on an empty stomach for at least three weeks, in the most persistent cases.
You can buy them…anywhere! In the pharmacy there is a wide range of products and to identify the best probiotic for constipation you can also get advice from the pharmacist who will be able to guide you in the right path.
There is also a vast assortment online, but here too never rely on chance: choose with awareness and only after having read up on the effectiveness of the probiotic in question.
At the supermarket, on the other hand, we can easily find all the foods mentioned above that are rich in probiotics. We just have to choose the most suitable according to your needs and tastes.
