Understanding the Connection Between Gut Health and Weight Loss
The gut contains bacteria, which help the body perform different functions, such as breaking down nutrients and medications, protecting the immune system, and keeping the gut lining healthy. When these bacteria become unbalanced, they can cause various issues with the digestive system, like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), certain allergies, and other gastrointestinal problems.
The Gut Has Two Types of Good Bacteria: Bacteroides and firmicutes, which are found in certain foods and weight loss supplements. A person's body weight seems to be related to the balance of these bacteria.
Certain studies suggest obesity may be associated with less diversity of good gut bacteria. Additional studies indicate that probiotics containing good bacteria may lead to a reduction in excess weight.
As the bacteria in the gut affect your metabolism, which in turn affects your weight, a healthy gut is key to weight loss.
Also Read: What’s the Best Diet For Healthy Weight Loss?
The Role of Probiotics in Weight Loss
Probiotics are effective in maintaining gut health. Though the role of probiotics in weight loss is a bit complex, it cannot be ignored. As per a 2013 study in The British Journal of Nutrition, Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG), a probiotic strain, was effective in weight loss.
The women who consumed this probiotic continued to lose weight even after the trial ended compared to the placebo group, who could only maintain their weight.
Choosing the Right Probiotics for Weight Loss
Many weight loss supplements and fat loss supplements are available in the market, but choosing the right probiotics for weight loss is extremely important. To select the right probiotic, you must pay attention to the following:
- The number of bacteria in the probiotic per dose (colony-forming units)
- Types of bacterial strains used in the probiotic
- Storage and expiry of the probiotic
- The research behind the probiotic
- The reputation of the probiotic brand
Incorporating Probiotics Into Your Diet
Probiotic-rich foods are considered a better choice than supplements. They can provide an ideal environment for good bacteria and strengthen gut health. Foods with probiotics for weight loss can be easily incorporated into the diet.
Try consuming fermented foods like yogurt, kimchi (fermented cabbage), kombucha (fermented black tea), and miso (fermented soybean paste)!
Combining Probiotics with Other Weight Loss Strategies to Improve Metabolism and Reduce Inflammation
Exercise increases bacteria levels in the gut that release short-chain fatty acids. These types of fatty acids can be seen to improve a person's metabolism and immunity.
Athletes typically have healthier bacteria diversity in their gut, which can be attributed to their frequent exercising and specialized diets. Therefore, it is important to combine probiotics with exercise to promote a healthy gut.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions of Using Probiotics for Weight Loss
If you are considering how to lose belly fat, incorporating probiotics is a good start. However, there are certain side effects of consuming probiotics for weight loss over a long period:
- Unpleasant digestive issues like bloating, constipation, and gas.
- Headaches (due to amines in fermented foods).
- Increase in histamine levels triggering allergic symptoms like runny nose, itchy and red eyes, and trouble breathing.
- Increased risk of infection (rare case).
To reduce the risk of these side effects, it's essential to take certain precautions:
- Start with a smaller dose.
- Read the label carefully for ingredients and instructions.
- Consult your healthcare provider before starting the course.
Taking these precautions will eliminate the chances of experiencing side effects so that you can enjoy the health benefits of probiotics.
Conclusion
When combined with the right diet and exercise, consuming probiotics for weight loss can help balance your gut and promote weight loss. However, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider before starting a course in probiotics.
