Ask a Maui Doctor: What are Probiotics?

Doctors at Minit Medical answer some of the questions submitted by readers.

Each week, a doctor from Minit Medical Kahului or Lahaina will answer questions that have been submitted by readers. Submit your own medical related questions to our doctors at askthedoctor@mauinow.com.

Questions submitted will be considered for inclusion in the “Ask a Maui Doctor” column.

Probiotics. Maui Now Stock Photo

Q: What’s the story with probiotics?

A: The gut is home to a complex biosphere of microbes (25 trillion) that help with digestion and send signals to the brain.

There are both good and bad microbes in your gut. If you are having symptoms of bloating, fatigue, brain fog and weight gain your bad gut microbes are probably being overfed (with processed foods, sugars, fats) and out maneuvering your good microbes. The goal is to feed/nourish the good and starve the bad to help improve micro biome and increase metabolism, energy, immunity and skin health.

NOTE: A healthy gut microbiome can take years to establish and one round of antibiotics can destroy the normal flora of the gut; it can take years to refurbish.

Probiotics are good microbes that boost immune system, improve digestive function, heal inflammatory bowel conditions, and manage eczema in kids to name a few. But they are not as beneficial as your own bacteria. Probiotics are temporary and if not fed properly will disappear.

PRE-biotics, found in many fruits and vegetables can help increase your own healthy bacteria without stimulating the bad. Bimuno is one of the classic Pre-biotic supplements. Taking both can be very helpful to create a balanced micro biome.

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