Benefits of probiotics for pregnancy
Not all bacteria are bad. There are some that are really beneficial for the body. Within the category of good bacteria are the so-called probiotics. These are similar to the good bacteria found in the human intestine that aid in proper digestion. They were discovered by Elie Metchnikoff, a Russian microbiologist and Nobel Peace Prize winner.
The most common type of probiotic available in food is lactobacillus acidophilus, which can be found in cultured foods like yogurt and those with other live cultures. Probiotics help restore the balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut and when gut bacteria start to cause health problems like diarrhea or irritable bowel syndrome, probiotics balance their population and help reduce discomfort and worsening of the situation.
How do probiotics help pregnant women?
Pregnancy comes with a host of ailments related to the digestive system and probiotics help pregnant women suffer less from these conditions. Some conditions that probiotics can help with during pregnancy include:
- Diarrhea
- Acidity
- intestinal cramps
- Constipation
When pregnant women integrate probiotic-rich foods into their diets, they help give their gastrointestinal tract a better environment. Probiotics help relieve constipation by regulating bowel movements. These good bacteria also help regulate the normal movement of the digestive system; therefore, decreasing heartburn and intestinal cramps.
The benefits of probiotics are not limited to improving the state of the digestive system of pregnant women. Probiotics also help boost the immune system of not only the mother but also the baby. These good bacteria help prevent colds and other illnesses to decrease health complications that the baby may experience during pregnancy.
Research is still ongoing on how probiotics can help pregnant women, but another good thing they have is to help prevent eczema from forming during pregnancy.
What foods are rich in probiotics?
Good bacteria like probiotics can mainly be found in dairy products that have undergone fermentation. The main sources and the most accessible food groups that contain probiotics that are beneficial for the digestive system and pregnancy include:
- Yoghurt
- Cheese
- Sour cream
- Milk
- miso
- tempeh
- soy products
Another great advantage of probiotics is that they are available in foods that are easily accessible and found in the supermarket. However, there are also probiotic supplements that can be purchased over the counter. They are available in capsule or powder form.
Things to remember before adding probiotics to a pregnant woman’s diet
Since pregnancy is a delicate stage in a woman’s life, it is very important to fully evaluate the factors and benefits that can be obtained from probiotics. Just because it works for one doesn’t mean it will have the same effects on another. Some considerations include:
- lactose intolerance
- Remember to choose pasteurized products
- Are these foods doctor approved?
While there may be benefits to adding probiotic-rich foods to a pregnant woman’s diet, the above factors should be considered to decrease the risks of adding rather than lessening complications during pregnancy.
It is still best to speak with a doctor before purchasing probiotic-rich foods or supplements intended to be added to a pregnant woman’s diet. The benefits of probiotics during pregnancy reduce various discomforts, but it is best to be careful and think about the big picture before making any changes to a pregnant woman’s nutrition.