Probiotics and Weight Loss
Bacteria living in our intestinal tract influence many aspects of our health. Probiotics are microscopic bacteria that we eat for health benefits. The human body carries around 100 trillion microorganisms in the intestines (gut flora). Probiotics help to maintain the balance of bacteria in the gut.
The gut flora plays an influential role in the progression of numerous diseases, including high cholesterol, heart disease, dementia, and obesity. Good bacteria help to reduce low-grade inflammation in the gut cells, which in turn, strongly impacts energy balance and weight loss.
What Studies Say
Clinical studies show that specific strains of Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Bifidobacterium lactis provide benefits. They appear to reduce fat mass, body weight, and weight gain. L. (Lactobacillus) gasseri appears to be the probiotic strain that can best assist weight loss in humans. Japanese researchers suggest that L. gasseri suppresses dietary fat absorption in the small intestine, therefore inhibiting calorie intake. This same strain of bacteria shows to lower cholesterol as well. This is a very new area of research and we are still learning more about probiotics on a daily basis.
Lactobacillus gasseri and other healthy probiotics are found in most fermented foods, such as yogurt, kefir, and pickled vegetables (kimchi and sauerkraut). Breast milk also contains probiotics that help develop an infant’s immune system.
Probiotic supplements (pills) also contain various strains & doses of healthy bacteria. It may be beneficial to look for a probiotic that contains at least L. gasseri, if not the other species that are mentioned above.
The Conclusion
So, in conclusion, there is a link between gut bacteria and weight loss. Also, taking certain probiotics can positively influence weight loss. Probiotics can assist you in shedding some pounds, but certainly are only a compliment to a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Probiotics are an essential component of the Gastrotrim 12-month comprehensive weight loss program. To learn more about the value of using probiotics as a dietary supplement, schedule a free consultation with Dr. Levy by calling 480-757-8000.
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