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3 Signs You Could Use A Probiotic Supplement In Your Routine

Author:

Hannah Frye

November 26, 2024

Beauty & Health Editor

By Hannah Frye

Beauty & Health Editor

Hannah Frye is the Beauty & Health Editor at mindbodygreen. She has a B.S. in journalism and a minor in women’s, gender, and queer studies from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. Hannah has written across lifestyle sections including beauty, women’s health, mental health, sustainability, social media trends, and more. She previously worked for Almost 30, a top-rated health and wellness podcast. In her current role, Hannah reports on the latest beauty trends and innovations, women’s health research, brain health news, and plenty more.

Woman holding supplements and a glass of water

Image by AsiaVision / iStock

November 26, 2024

Of all the supplements out there, probiotics may earn a spot in your top-priority list. After all, the state of your gut influences your digestive system, your skin, and even your mood—so taking extra good care of it will always pay off.

One way to do so is by taking a probiotic supplement every day. To come, three signs you could definitely use one in your routine if you aren't already:

You want better digestion

The friendly bacteria in your gut are key players in the breakdown and digestion of fiber-rich carbohydrates (sometimes called prebiotics).

During that breakdown, gut bacteria produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), like butyrate, which serve as fuel 1 for the cells that line and strengthen the barrier of the intestine. So, the more healthy bacteria you have, the better your digestion may become.

You want smoother skin

As we mentioned up top, the gut and skin are connected. As board-certified internist Vincent Pedre, M.D., previously told mindbodygreen, "Gut inflammation eventually can become systemic inflammation." And that, along with oxidative stress, blood sugar imbalances, and other problems 2, can all show up on your skin—especially if you are genetically predisposed to these conditions.

Not to mention, all acne stems from some sort of inflammation. Perhaps that's why one study found a probiotic supplement improved acne in 80% of the 300 participants 3. Probiotics also support immunity and inflammation, which could help to reduce breakout flares.

You're not a fan of fermented foods

Some people consume fermented foods and beverages constantly—think sauerkraut, pickles, kombucha, kimchi, kefir, etc. Others simply want nothing to do with the acquired taste.

If you're not a pickled-something fan, then probiotic supplements are even more important for you since you're likely not ingesting them via food. Not sure where to find a probiotic that does it all? Here's a curated list of the best options on the market right now.

That being said, pre- and postbiotics are important for well-rounded gut care too. So fermented food lover or not, make sure you consume enough gut-friendly staples.

The takeaway

Probiotics can be beneficial for most people, especially if you're looking to support your digestion and skin health, or if you're not frequently consuming probiotic-rich foods. Now, if you want to learn more about probiotic supplements and how long they take to work, this guide has you covered.