These days there are so many articles telling you what you should and should not do for your health that it can become confusing what benefits you should actually expect from different health regimens such as vitamins, supplements, or nutrition plans. While many of these trendy health plans come and go, probiotics have been endorsed since 1907.

Put simply, probiotics are bacteria. They are microorganisms, similar to those naturally found in our bodies, that promote health benefits when consumed by restoring balance in our bodies. To see the specific ways you could benefit from taking probiotics, check out the list below.

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Improve Gut Health

A wide range of randomized, controlled trials have studied the effects of probiotics, especially Lactobacillus, on gut health. Harvard Medical School released an article on the health benefits of probiotics where they stated that when all of these studies are taken together, probiotics reduced diarrhea more than the placebo. Probiotics are also used to treat constipation. Probiotics have been shown to both increase weekly bowel movements and soften stool for individuals struggling with constipation.

Restore Vaginal Health

The vagina is a delicate ecosystem that is easily disturbed by common medications such as antibiotics and birth control. When common issues arise, such as bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, and urinary tract infections, taking probiotics may help to rebalance your ecosystem so you can go about your daily life free of worry.

Boost Immune System

The Cleveland Clinic posted a study showing how the good bacteria-boosting powers of probiotics are also immune-boosting. So if you’re someone who regularly has a cold, or you work in a school surrounded by sick kids, or have your own sick kids at home, probiotics may be just what you need to make it through cold and flu season.

Promote Fertility

If you are looking to get pregnant, the bacteria-balancing that comes from probiotics may help your body be more receptive and improve your chances. Additionally, according to the Naturopathic Doctor News & Review, probiotics may help to lower your preterm labor risks once you are pregnant.

Healthy Skin

What you eat affects your skin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, probiotics may also help with common skin problems such as acne, rosacea, and eczema. Probiotics help to guard your skin against inflammation, stress, free radicals, pollution, aging, fine lines, and wrinkles.

Probiotics have a wide range of benefits throughout the body. Consult with your doctor to find out more about how probiotics could help improve your health.

Image courtesy of Livestrong