Your gut plays a central role in your health. It does more than just digest food; it can impact everything from nutrient absorption to immunity, and even your mood. When your gut is in great shape, you’ll have more energy, better digestion, and even reduced inflammation throughout your body. Unfortunately, though, not everyone is taking great care of their guts. Luckily, taking a daily probiotic supplement can make gut health simple.
We spoke to Dr. Wesley Buckle, a licensed naturopathic doctor at The Oasis Addiction Treatment Center, to learn more about how taking a probiotic supplement can improve your gut health in as little as two weeks. If you’re thinking about adding a probiotic to your regimen and are looking for one final sign, read on to learn about how this small change can make a big difference in a short time.
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Benefits of probiotic supplements
Struggling with digestion? Sick of a bloated stomach? Probiotics could be what your body needs—and it could take less time than you think. "After taking a daily probiotic for 2 weeks, the 'good' bacteria will colonize the gut," Dr. Buckle explains. "This will create a number of beneficial effects, including improvements in both digestion and bloating. Other effects may include more regular bowel movements and a reduction in abdominal discomfort."
But the benefits don’t stop at digestion. "While probiotics are helpful for one’s gut microbiome, they also play a role in mood and immune system regulation," he adds. "So, taking a probiotic daily may help with things beyond digestion." Sounds ideal.
Tips for Starting a Probiotic
Ready to start taking a daily probiotic? Dr. Buckle offers some advice. "It’s essential to look for a brand that has clinical research behind it," he says. One way to confirm good quality is to check the CFU (colony forming units) count. "Look for at least 1 billion," he says.
It’s also important to ease into your new routine. "Start slow when it comes to probiotic supplementation," Dr. Buckle warns. "It's important to give your gut time to adjust, as probiotics can cause cramping and gas if you are not used to them." He suggests starting with every other day to see how your body responds.
Finally, you should also consult your doctor before starting a new supplement—especially if you have underlying health conditions. As Dr. Buckle says, "They can help you choose the best option for you based on your medical history."
Bottom Line
No supplement is a magic fix. However, adding a supplement to your routine is a great way to keep your gut in tip-top shape, especially when you're practicing other gut-healthy habits. If you’re looking for more regular digestion, less bloating, and better overall wellbeing, it might be worth a try.
