Women are 2 to 6 times more likely to suffer from gut health issues like inflammatory bowel disease. A healthy gut is key to overall wellness, yet many women struggle with digestive discomfort, weakened immunity, and imbalanced microbiomes. That’s why nutritionists and health specialists recommend probiotics.
Probiotics, often called ‘good bacteria,’ consist of live microorganisms such as bacteria and yeasts that provide numerous health benefits. But the question is - should women even take probiotics daily? Let’s know the power of probiotics for women's gut health.
What Are the Functions of Probiotics?
Probiotics are “good” microorganisms that we may take as a supplement. These microorganisms have the potential to renew beneficial organisms present on the skin, vagina, or digestive tract. Probiotic microorganisms are acid-resistant, which means they can restrict the overgrowth of undesirable bacteria and yeast. They support a healthy immune system and may help maintain a balanced microbiome, reducing the risk of infections.
What are the Benefits of Probiotics for Women's Gut Health?
1. Prevention of Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
Many women experience bacterial vaginosis (BV), which often leads to discomfort, unpleasant odour, and frequent inflammation. The probiotic for gut health works well here. It helps with BV, in particular the Lactobacillus strains, which aid in restoring the microbiome of the vagina. A balanced Lactobacillus population helps inhibit harmful bacterial growth, reducing the chances of BV.
2. Reduction in Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Frequent UTIs can be problematic for women because antibiotics are usually needed, which disrupts gut health. Probiotic supplement usage effectively strengthens the urinary microbiome, where changes would better suppress disease-causing microorganisms that lead to infections. Probiotics, especially Lactobacillus, enhance vaginal and urinary health by restoring beneficial flora and preventing E. coli and other harmful bacteria. (Source: Ballou S, McMahon C, Lee HN, et al.)
3. Alleviation of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Symptoms
Nowadays, IBS is a prevalent digestive disorder affecting many women. The causes can be bloating, cramping, and maldigestion. Probiotics can help restore gut flora balance and regulate bowel movements, reducing inflammation. It restores the gut microbiome, which enhances digestion and irritative and dysregulation symptoms.
4. Enhanced Skin Health
Skin problems are common among women. Sudden hormonal fluctuations contribute to acne and other skin issues. Taking probiotics can aid in skin clarity by improving inflammatory response and lowering gut inflammation. Through a healthy gut microbiome and increasing the skin barrier function, probiotics reduce the frequency of acne breakouts. (Source: Microbiome and probiotics in acne vulgaris-a narrative review)
5. Support During Pregnancy
Alterations in a woman’s immune system during pregnancy increase the likelihood of infections and other complications. Probiotics maintain the vaginal and gut microbiota aiding in microbe balance and improving the health of pregnant women. Reducing inflammation enables them to reduce the chances of premature births. Also, probiotics help the maternal microbiota, aiding the baby’s gut health.
6. Improved Mental Wellbeing
Hormonal shifts and imbalances can risk depression and anxiety, especially in women. The gut-brain axis helps probiotics affect serotonin release, which results in mood stability. Along with this, probiotics lower cortisol levels and hence decrease stress-induced anxiety. A healthy gut microbiome ensures good cognitive and emotional wellbeing.
7. Assistance in Weight Management
Increasing body weight is one of the primary concerns of women these days. Factors like metabolism and gut health can influence weight changes in women. Probiotics can help you burn more calories by fixing the gut bacteria that help with digestion, fat use, and storage. They can also help you eat fewer calories by boosting your metabolism and controlling your hunger, which reduces unhealthy cravings.
8. Reduction of Yeast Infections
Severe discomfort and irritation from yeast infections can significantly interfere with daily life. Probiotics help maintain vaginal pH levels that prevent candida overgrowth. They prevent the growth of yeast by producing antimicrobial substances.
How to Choose the Best Probiotic for Women's Gut Health?
Women’s probiotics are effective only when tailored to specific strains that help women’s health issues. For instance, lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium longum improve your vaginal and digestive health. You should primarily consider products with higher colony-forming units (CFU) and no additives. Or visit a healthcare professional who will recommend probiotics based on your health needs.
How Can Women Incorporate Probiotics into Their Daily Routine?
Women can take probiotics as supplements and as part of their food. Yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi are good natural sources of probiotics. Supplements work well for people looking for specific strains. Probiotics should be taken every day simultaneously, preferably alongside a meal. Also, a diet consisting of prebiotic fibrous foods benefits probiotic activity.
Arravite - Premium Vaginal & Gut Probiotics for Women
Arravite is a premier Australian brand dedicated to women's health through its specialized probiotic formulations. Combining science-backed strains, Arravite offers products for women to support their vaginal, skin and gut health. Our commitment to clinically proven nutritional formulas makes us a trusted choice for the complete wellbeing of the body.
References:
- Effects of Irritable Bowel Syndrome on Daily Activities Vary Among Subtypes Based on Results From the IBS in America Survey Ballou, Sarah et al. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Volume 17, Issue 12, 2471 - 2478.e3
- Chilicka, K., Dzieńdziora-Urbińska, I., Szyguła, R., Asanova, B., & Nowicka, D. (2022). Microbiome and Probiotics in Acne Vulgaris—A Narrative Review. Life, 12(3), 422. https://doi.org/10.3390/life12030422
