Probiotics Reduce Infections in Top Athletes

New research published in the Lancet shows that athletes who take probiotics (the good bacteria found in yogurt or taken as a supplement- I prescribe Culturelle GG and ITI Probiotic Pearls in our medical practice) are more resistant to infection. This study showed that taking the probiotics daily for only two months increases levels of interferon gamma- a critical component of immune function. There are thousands of studies on the beneficial effects of probiotics- for immune health, digestive health, gas, bloating, and even for mental health. This particular study looked at elite athletes (who are more susceptible to infection) but there is plenty of solid evidence pointing to the value of probiotics for the rest of us. One benefit for everyone is that probiotics fight invading germs.

In health,
Dr. Gina L. Nick
NMD PhD
President California Naturopathic Doctors Association

To view the research mentioned above click here.