Probiotics, the beneficial live microorganisms designed to keep your gut environment healthy, have been found to help detox the body by removing heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, arsenic, chromium, and mercury. Commonly found in fermented foods with active live cultures like yogurt and sauerkraut, as well as supplements, probiotics have become a popular way to maintain a healthy gut.
Probiotics in Detoxifying Heavy Metals
A mini-review in Applied and Environmental Microbiology has shown that probiotics may also play a crucial role in detoxifying heavy metals in the human body. Gregor Reid of the Lawson Health Research Institute has said that “beneficial bacteria are indeed capable of degrading pesticides and sequestering toxic chemicals.”
Research has shown that up to 40 to 60 percent of metals ingested by humans do not breach the intestinal barrier. The microbiota living in the digestive tract help prevent their entry. Jeremy Burton, the study’s coauthor, has discussed Lactobacillus, a probiotic living in the human mouth and gut, and explained that it has the ability to bind and detoxify these harmful substances.
These findings raise the possibility of applying probiotics to other foods to sweep harmful compounds from the gut and even decontaminating environmental sites. Burton explains that “if the metal is trapped in or on a bacterial cell, it can pass harmlessly from the body via feces.”
Real World Applications
The study’s findings have real-world implications on a global scale. Gregor Reid explains that since large parts of the Earth are contaminated by toxic compounds, including Africa’s Lake Victoria, it is worth exploring if lactobacilli could counter these toxins.
Furthermore, probiotics’ detoxifying capabilities could be beneficial for individuals living in regions with a high level of exposure to heavy metals. This includes areas affected by industrial pollution or the widespread occurrence of heavy metals in groundwater.
How to Incorporate Probiotics in Your Diet
Incorporating probiotics into your diet is both easy and delicious. The most common source of probiotics is yogurt, which contains live and active cultures essential for maintaining a healthy gut. Besides yogurt, other fermented foods rich in probiotics include sauerkraut, kimchi, tempeh, miso, and kombucha. Consuming these foods regularly can help boost your gut health and possibly aid in detoxifying your body of heavy metals.
If you find it difficult to include probiotic-rich foods in your diet, you can also opt for probiotic supplements. There are various types of probiotic supplements available catering to different health requirements. Be sure to look for supplements that specifically state the strains and approximate number of live organisms per dose, as not all probiotics offer the same benefits.
Things to Consider before Adding Probiotics
Although probiotics are generally considered safe for most people, you should consult with your healthcare provider before adding them to your diet, particularly if you have a weakened immune system, are critically ill, or have recently undergone surgery. Moreover, probiotic supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), so it is essential to do thorough research before choosing a product.
In conclusion, probiotics have shown promising results in detoxifying heavy metals and helping to maintain a healthy gut. By incorporating probiotic-rich foods or supplements into your daily routine, you’re giving your body an extra layer of protection against harmful substances and supporting your overall well-being.
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