Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host.

The gut microbiota plays a direct and indirect role in overall health and wellness. But a healthy intestinal balance of microorganisms can be disrupted by stress, disease, poor nutrition, toxins, and medications, such as antibiotics, immune suppressants, and gastric acid inhibitors, resulting in intestinal and systemic health disturbances.

Research has shown that diverse probiotic species are able to inhibit the growth and control populations of undesirable microorganisms by competing for nutrients and adhesion sites; producing supportive compounds such as organic acids, hydrogen peroxide, and bacteriocins; and modulating the body’s own healthy immune and inflammatory responses. Probiotic microorganisms maintain and strengthen intestinal barrier function as well as regulate bowel motility. They promote normal colonic blood flow, produce essential nutrients for the colon mucosa, synthesize vitamin K and B vitamins, and facilitate nutrient and mineral absorption, especially calcium, magnesium, and zinc.

Dietary probiotic supplementation can therefore support the body in restoring and maintaining a healthy, balanced gastrointestinal microbiota.