How much probiotics should women be drinking daily according to UK recommendations?

Probiotics have gained immense popularity in recent years due to their numerous health benefits. They are live microorganisms that are beneficial for our gut health and overall wellbeing. In the UK, there is no official recommended daily amount of probiotics for women. However, various studies and experts suggest that women should be consuming a certain amount of probiotics daily.

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for our digestive system. They are naturally found in our bodies and can also be found in some foods and supplements. Probiotics help maintain a healthy gut microflora and support the immune system. They also aid in the digestion and absorption of nutrients and can help alleviate or prevent digestive issues such as bloating, constipation and diarrhea.

How much probiotics should women consume?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), women should ideally consume a minimum of 10 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) of probiotics daily in order to experience the health benefits. This amount can be found in many probiotic supplements available in the market. However, some experts recommend consuming up to 50 billion CFUs per day, especially for those with chronic gut issues or weakened immune systems.

How to get probiotics from foods?

Probiotics can be found in certain foods, such as yogurt, kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut, kimchi and miso. It's important to consume these foods regularly in order to maintain a healthy gut microflora. However, it's important to note that not all probiotic foods are created equal and some may not contain enough live cultures to provide any significant benefits.

Should women take probiotic supplements?

While probiotics can be obtained from foods, some women may find it difficult to consume enough probiotic-rich foods in their daily diet. In such cases, probiotic supplements can be a convenient and effective option. It's important to choose a high-quality probiotic supplement that contains a variety of strains and a sufficient CFU count. It's also important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Conclusion

Probiotics are an important aspect of maintaining good gut health and overall wellbeing. While there is no official recommended daily amount of probiotics for women in the UK, consuming a minimum of 10 billion CFUs per day is suggested by the World Health Organization. Women can get probiotics from foods, as well as supplements. It's important to choose high-quality probiotics and consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.