"Biotic" means bacteria.
"Probiotic" means: "pro-bacteria".
So therefore if someone asks you: "are you getting enough probiotics?" they mean: are you eating enough foods that support balanced bacteria growth in your gut?"
Benefits of bacteria ..
IMMUNE SYSTEM:
They fight pathogens, other invading bacteria, viruses, and prevent food poisoning, sickness and infection. As our society grew we began to sanitize everything in an effort to stay clean, however we are now learning the importance of keeping balance versus wiping everything out.
-->When was the last time you took antibiotics? Do you get food poisoning? Have gassy digestion? A sudden rise in allergies? These can be signals of an imbalanced microbiome.
DIGESTION:
Bacteria activate enzymes and balance our pH to regulate our digestive processes. Bacteria prevent gas, bloating. On the flip, they can create these imbalances if we do not keep them in balance, such as in the case of candida overgrowth.
-->How do you feel after eating carbohydrates? How often do you drink alcohol? Does your digestion feel strong or irritated?
ABSORPTION:
Bacteria convert vitamin K & vitaminB12 into usable form, therefore improving energy and maintaining bone density. This also means if we do not have the appropriate balance of bacteria in our colon, our body is unable to absorb and use these vitamins- meaning this can be a reason for recurring deficiency.
-->How many bones have you broken? Do you have arthritis? Osteoporosis? Low energy? Low iron? Low B12? Incorporating probiotics foods like whole milk yogurt, kombucha, fresh sprouts and raw unpasteurized apple cider vinegar are supportive of healthy microbiome and therefore I would expect higher nutrient levels in the body to follow.
DETOX:
Bacteria detoxify unneeded waste from the surface of our internal and external membranes.
-->Do you move your bowels every day? Have acne?
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Hopefully when we learn about how bacteria is everywhere in and around us, rather than fearing it we can learn to work symbiotically with it to the greater benefit of us all.
Check out our posts on kombucha, fermentation and sprouting to learn more.
Samantha