Probiotics for colds and flu is based on the simple principle that good microorganisms defeat bad ones. In the colds and flu season, probiotics can shorten the duration and lessen symptoms.
- Studies show that consuming fermented dairy containing Lactobacillus casei reduces the risk of common infections in stressed individuals.
- Research on the mechanisms of probiotics shows that they tune the immune system thereby reducing the severity of colds.
Those who consume probiotics have fewer colds and don’t need antibiotics as often.
How probiotics for colds work
Did you know that microorganisms in the gut controls 80% of the immune system? It therefore makes sense that probiotic are effective at warding off cold and flu viruses.
How can the gut microflora be kept strong?
- By consuming probiotics, fermented food, yogurt or taking a Supplement.
- Cut down on sugar and carbs that feed bad bacteria
- Avoid processed foods.
- Consume healthy fats like coconut oil, avocado, olive oil, real butter, eggs, and nuts.
This way, the gut bacteria colony remains strong to boost the immune system, reducing the risk of colds and flu.
Probiotics for children
Children benefit from probiotics for colds and flu. The mother’s breast milk is very nutritious and contains several hundred strains of beneficial bacteria that are involved in developing the baby’s gut and immune system.
In one study, 3-5-year-old children were divided into two groups: one group consumed a single bacteria strain, the second group a combination of probiotic bacteria. Both groups took this twice a day during six months.
The result?
- Fever was reduced by 53% for the first group, 73% for the second
- Coughing decreased by 41% for the first group, 62% for the second
- Runny noses were reduced by 28% for the first group, 59% for the second.
- Use of antibiotics decreased by 68% for the first group, 84% for the second.
Conclusion: children consuming probiotics need less antibiotics and have fewer sick days from school.
I’ve have worked for years in Eastern Europe where many families consume fermented foods on a daily basis, some with every meal. This have a profound effect on children.
Some studies show that on the average, children in some Eastern European countries show a lower rate of allergies and other health problems than children in western cultures.
Consume fermented foods
Probiotics for colds is only one aspect of the many benefits of probiotics. Learn to ferment yogurt of vegetable at home. Such products can contains trillions of probiotic bacteria in a few table spoons!
- Or quick start using a probiotic supplement.
- Make fermented vegetables, yogurt or kefir; simple and cost-effective.
Probiotics for colds and flu seem to work best when fermented food is consumed daily. In the cold and flu season, it might be good to increase the amount consumed, ideally several times a day.