Probiotics help to balance the intestinal tract for digestive health, but can they help you lose weight? Research suggests they can, and nutritional experts think probiotics added to the diet and in supplements aid in weight loss.
The benefits of probiotics come from such fermented foods as yogurt, sauerkraut, kefir, miso, and raw cheese.
These five experts explain why probiotics can help you lose weight.
1. The beneficial bacteria of probiotics are important to your gut, your immune system and in boosting
weight loss, says Dr. Joseph Mercola, alternative medicine advocate and best-selling author. Probiotics inhibit the growth of disease-causing bacteria to provide better nutrition.
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“For all of these reasons, and more, I always recommend a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods along with cultured or fermented foods,” Dr. Mercola notes.
2. Dr. Josh Axe, a doctor of natural medicine and clinical nutritionist, reports that studies show weight loss is among the promising benefits of probiotics. “If you are going to be healthy you MUST consider consuming probiotic rich foods and supplements daily,” his website reads.
3. Dr. Andrew Weil, author and expert on integrative medicine, points to a Canadian study that revealed women can lose weight by taking probiotics. “The researchers noted that the intestinal flora of obese individuals differs from that of thin people, possibly because diets high in fat and low in fiber promote certain bacteria at the expense of others,” Weil states.
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4. Dr. Michael T. Murray, an expert on natural medicine, reports on evidence that shows losing weight could be as simple as taking the right probiotic supplement. However, studies indicate a weight-loss probiotic might have to do with the type of bacteria. Based on research, he recommends a supplement formula “that contains multiple strains” and buying supplements from a respected brand.
5. Family physician and best-selling author Dr. Mark Hyman says probiotics work in a diet to fix gut bacteria and can help you lose weight. “Sauerkraut, kimchi, tempeh, and miso contain good amounts of probiotics so your healthy gut bugs can be fruitful and multiply,” he says. He also recommends probiotic supplements.
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