COVID times are long gone and regular viral infections are back since people started stepping out in crowded places, without masks or diligent use of sanitisers. While a healthy diet and lifestyle are a no-brainer when it comes to building your immunity against viral illnesses, one particular measure that you can take is including probiotics in your daily meals.
In recent years, the spotlight on probiotics has grown, with numerous studies highlighting their potential health benefits. One such study published in the journal ‘Current Opinion in Gastroenterology’ found that probiotics help maintain homeostasis in the body including innate immunity. While traditionally recognized for their role in gut health, this research suggests that probiotics may also play a pivotal role in supporting the immune system and combating viral infections.
To know more about this link, the OnlyMyHealth team spoke to Dr Manjusha Agarwal, Senior Consultant Internal Medicine Global Hospitals Parel Mumbai.
What Are Probiotics?
The National Centre for Complementary and Integrative Health shared that probiotics are live microorganisms, mainly bacteria and yeast, that confer health benefits to their host when consumed in adequate amounts. Found in various foods and supplements, these beneficial bacteria are known to promote a balanced gut microbiome, which is closely linked to overall well-being.
Dr Agarwal listed some good sources of probiotic-rich foods:
- Yoghurt
- Kefir
- Sauerkraut
- Kimchi
“Consuming such foods regularly as part of a balanced diet is beneficial for overall health. However, consult a healthcare professional who can personalise your daily intake,” she recommended.
Also Read: Expert Lists The Benefits Of Probiotics In The Prevention And Treatment Of COVID-19
How Probiotics Prevent Viral Infections
A significant portion of the body's immune system resides in the gut, making the health of our digestive system crucial for overall immunity. Dr Agarwal commented, “Probiotics support the immune system and gut health, thus potentially reducing the risk of viral infections. They do this by enhancing the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut.”
This is how probiotics prevent the risk of viral infections:
- Boosting Immune Response: Probiotics stimulate the production of immune cells and enhance their activity. This heightened immune response can help the body recognise and combat viral invaders more effectively.
- Reducing Viral Replication: Probiotic strains may inhibit the replication of viruses. By doing so, probiotics may limit the spread and severity of viral infections, providing an additional layer of defence.
- Balancing Inflammation: Imbalances in the immune response can lead to excessive inflammation, contributing to the severity of viral infections. Probiotics help regulate the immune system, preventing an overactive inflammatory response and promoting a balanced defence against pathogens.
- Supporting Antiviral Defense Mechanisms: Probiotics may enhance the production of antiviral substances, such as interferons, which play a crucial role in the body's defence against viruses. This support strengthens the natural antiviral defences of the host.
As we continue to navigate the challenges posed by viral infections, exploring natural approaches to support our immune system becomes increasingly important. Probiotics, with their multifaceted impact on immune function, offer a promising avenue for both preventive and complementary strategies in the fight against viral invaders. Dr Agarwal concluded that including probiotics in a balanced and healthy lifestyle may contribute to fortifying our body's defences against viral infections.