Probiotics May Increase Weight Loss

What’s The Deal With Probiotics And Weight Loss?

Posted by: Annika Harris Filed in: news
9:59AM, Wednesday August 5th 2009

Everyone knows that there are good bacteria and bad bacteria. And we know that touching and ingesting yucky things is how we pick up most bad bacteria. But how exactly does one get the good stuff in her system? Probiotics, that’s how. And new studies show it’s good for all kinds of reasons.

Studies show that probiotics (live microorganisms) can improve digestion health, combat gastrointestinal problems, and support immunity. Recent research also suggests that they can increase metabolism and weight loss. A poor diet, stress, and antibiotics can increase the bad bacteria in the digestive tract. Experts say that we’re more susceptible to disease and gastrointestinal issues when our bad bacteria outnumber the good ones. So some experts believe that the ratio of good bacteria to bad bacteria affects weight loss because the composition of microflora, the bacteria in the digestive tract, could help to determine how many calories are absorbed from food. Probiotics help to maintain a healthy balance and cut down bloating.

I don’t have any experience with the weight-loss effect of probiotics, but I can tell you that probiotic supplements have done wonders for my digestive health. I’d been dealing with this burning sensation in the top of my stomach that brought on nausea and vomiting, regardless of whether I ate. I tried relieving the pain with hot herbal tea and Pepto-Bismol, but nothing worked. (On a side note, if you’ve taken Pepto and noticed that your tongue and waste have turned black; don’t be alarmed because it’s just the Pepto. Anyway!) I finally went to the doctor: I was diagnosed with very unspecific gastritis, was advised to cut out spicy, greasy, and fried foods—basically anything with some taste—and was prescribed an acid reducer, which worked for a while. But one day, I was in so much pain that the acid reducer couldn’t get rid of, and I vowed to find another way. (I was also skeptical of the acid reducer because the stomach needs to be acidic to help digestion along.)

I spoke with a few people who had experienced similar symptoms, and they advised me to try probiotics. I thought: It’s only one little pill, so I wouldn’t have to make a huge effort. I’m happy to report that probiotics, along with papaya extract, changed my life. I no longer have the terrible burning in my stomach that made me vomit. And I can still occasionally eat the spicy, fried, greasy foods I enjoy.

If you’re thinking of taking up a probiotic regimen, look for ones that contain at least one billion live microorganisms per serving and contain more than one strain of bacteria, according to experts. Certain strains are beneficial for certain heath needs. If you don’t want to go the pills route, naturally fermented foods like yogurt, miso, and cottage cheese also contain probiotics. There’s also an ever-growing selection of probiotic-infused foods, like juice, breakfast cereal, and snack bars, on the market now. [Teen Vogue]

comments

Lynn
wrote on August 5 2009 @ 11:44 am: [report]

I’ve been on probiotics for a couple years now, and I haven’t noticed any weight loss. But who knows - maybe I would have chunked up if it wasn’t for them

I’ve been on a couple varieties, but Align is, by far, the BEST I have ever used or tried. I am only sad that I waited so long to try it. It has completely changed my life, and that is no exaggeration. It works better than the prescription meds my doctor had me on for my digestive issues.

Coral
wrote on August 5 2009 @ 03:01 pm: [report]

For years, I have been on probiotics, and occasionally mixed in with antibiotics. My doctors believed for a long time that I had an auto-immune disorder, but I don’t, and it’s actually a severe, but not life-threatening, food allergy, along with other medical problems. But my point is that, at age 18, my metabolism is very good. Almost too good. I find it very very hard to gain any weight, and I have believed for awhile now that it’s due to the probiotics. Although I think probiotics are good overall, I do not think they are good for long-term use. Probiotics’ benefits should all be taken with a grain of salt.

Yellow
wrote on August 5 2009 @ 04:34 pm: [report]

I actually just started on probiotics a few weeks ago, and they have completely changed my digestive system. I had no idea how terrible I felt until I felt better! As for weightloss, my actual weight didn’t change, but LOOK like I lost a few pounds in my belly region. Apparently I had all this bloat and whatnot in my lower tum that I thought was just my body! Not so… out it came, and up went my confidence.

AgentBeryllium
wrote on August 5 2009 @ 04:47 pm: [report]

Yellow and Coral: What are you using? Whenever I eat sugar or carbs I get an in creditable heartburn.

develange
wrote on August 5 2009 @ 04:57 pm: [report]

I also use Align!

My gastro system has been really messed up for months and it got to the point where it was hard to do everyday stuff. I finally saw a gastro doc a couple weeks ago. I have been taking Align for over a week and my symptoms are pretty much gone!

Though I don’t think I’ve lost any weight (not that I need to), my stomach looks and feels ten pounds lighter. Didn’t realize how bloated I was.

But of course…as always…it’s probably not going to work for anyone, health-wise and weight-wise.

I can see how probiotics could make someone lose weight, if it gets things flowing and working properly. Still, eating healthy is better for your digestive system in general. I’m psyched that I can eat #&@$% food again, but it doesn’t mean I’m going to pig out…much.

Coral
wrote on August 5 2009 @ 05:23 pm: [report]

@msPris: I have no idea what I was using. It was a generic I know that. But many times it was mixed with antibiotics, so I don’t really know.

Yellow
wrote on August 5 2009 @ 05:27 pm: [report]

I get mine from a local health store—New Chapter Organics Probiotic All-Flora. 8 billion probiotic live cells in a dose and 9 strains.

Also just a note that probiotics (in pill form) should be taken on an empty stomach for optimum results. I take mine as soon as I get up in the morning, then shower and get ready for work before I eat breakfast.

JenG
wrote on August 5 2009 @ 06:13 pm: [report]

Besides the count, the actual probiotics are important (clinically supported for what you are looking to achieve - digestive health, immunity, etc.). As they are “live” they die off easily so you want to be sure the count is delivered at consumption.

The International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP.net) has great guidelines for consumers looking for products.

I like Attune bars - chocolate with probiotics, yum!