Probiotics and allergies

You hear the word Probiotics all the time but what does it mean exactly and why are they supposed to be so good for us?

Probiotics are the "Good" live bacteria and yeast found in our own bodies and in select food sources.  They aid in the function of T cells that support the bodies immune system.
These good bacteria have been proven to not only be beneficial to our health but to the health of our animal friends as well.


Probiotics have been used to treat such conditions as:

 Irritable bowel syndrome  (IBS) and  Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Diahrea
Enteritis 
Some cancers 
Skin conditions (such as eczema)
Allergies
Inflammation
Colds
Oral health
Immune deficiency diseases

  
Probiotics can of course be found as supplements at your local pharmacy and health store but they can also be found in many foods especially fermented milk and vegetables. 

Some Probiotic food sources include:

Yogurt

Kefir 
Souerkraut, Kimchi 
Green peas








Microalgae
Miso 











Pickles
Tempeh
Kombucha tea 
Raw cheese


Natto, and my personal favourite dark chocolate.










My Doctor was the first to suggest that I start taking probiotics many years ago and I have personally found them to be extremely beneficial and helpful.   
I began taking them specifically for the treatment of IBS.  Little did I know at the time it would also help my allergies, and best of all there would be no side effects. 


                 * I recently discovered a super informative article on
                    Probiotics for Allergies by Beth Levine.  
                     If you would like to look at some research and information 
                     I found it to be an easy read. 




Sources:  www.webmd.com,  medicinenet.com,  paleoleap.com, 
http://www.livestrong.com/slideshow/1010455-13-surprising-beneficial-probiotic-foods/#slide=2