All About Probiotics for the Elderly
More Americans are turning to probiotics to help them with a number of digestive and intestinal issues, including elderly adults. Many studies show that probiotics, live bacteria supplements, can benefit the body and boost health. Seniors are especially interested in probiotic use because they suffer from numerous health issues that can often be treated with probiotics as part of a comprehensive health plan.
Caregiver in East Grand Rapids MI: Probiotics for the Elderly
What Are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live bacteria culture supplements that people ingest to restore the balance of good to bad bacteria in the gut. Most supplements are taken in pill or powder form, although they can be added to certain foods like fruit drinks and yogurt. Some probiotics occur naturally in fermented food like kimchee, sauerkraut, and yogurt. There are many different kinds of probiotics, so caregivers and seniors should consult with a doctor about what kind to get and when and how to take them.
How Do Probiotics Help the Elderly?
Elderly adults are especially prone to health conditions that lead to gastrointestinal distress, bowel issues, and digestive challenges. Some of the conditions associated with old age further complicate the body’s ability to efficiently and effectively balance good and bad bacteria in the gut. When consumed in large enough quantities, probiotics can help elderly people boost their friendly bacteria count and counteract some of the worst symptoms such as diarrhea and gas. Probiotics also keep elderly adults healthier overall in numerous ways.
Probiotics Help With Certain Conditions.
Probiotics can help elderly adults with a number of different health conditions when taken as part of a doctor’s recommended treatment. Often, the treatment includes a modified diet as well as other medications. Common conditions that throw the balance of bacteria in the gut out of balance include irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease, malnutrition, weakened immune system, recent food poisoning, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, and yeast infections, among others.
Experts agree that over the age of 60, it’s not uncommon for the body to struggle with normal body functions like proper digestion and bowel activity. Probiotics can even help reduce mild digestive issues such as gas and diarrhea when taken regularly. Other physical conditions that can benefit from probiotic use are asthma, allergies and some skin conditions. There are even studies that connect a healthy gut to improved mental health and more positive moods.
Caregivers should discuss treatment possibilities for their aging relative with the doctor. They need guidance to ensure they are getting the right probiotics, because there are effective and ineffective versions in the supplements market. Good probiotics need to include the right strain of bacteria and have enough contained in a dose to make an impact on the body. It’s possible that probiotics can help a loved one’s digestive issues, regulate the immune system, and contribute to overall health and wellness.
If you or someone you know needs help with caregiver services in East Grand Rapids, MI, contact Gauthier Family Home Care. We provide quality and affordable home care services in our community. Call us at (616) 258-2300 for more information.
Source:
http://www.todaysgeriatricmedicine.com/archive/030209p12.shtml
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