Probiotics – “good bacteria” found in capsules, fermented foods and drinks – are often marketed as a cure-all for digestion and immunity. While gut bacteria are important for health, probiotics aren’t magic for everyone in every situation.
They may be genuinely useful after certain antibiotic courses, when the natural balance of gut microbes has been disturbed. Some people with specific conditions, like irritable bowel or certain diarrhoeal illnesses, may benefit from particular probiotic strains, as advised by a doctor.
However, grabbing any probiotic product from a shelf without understanding what it contains or whether you need it can simply be an expensive habit. Not all strains do the same thing, and many products are not strongly regulated.
For many generally healthy people, a varied diet rich in fibre – fruits, vegetables, whole grains, pulses – and naturally fermented foods like yoghurt or some traditional preparations supports gut health effectively.
If you want to try probiotics, think of them as one tool, not a replacement for a balanced lifestyle. And if you have a serious illness or very low immunity, always ask your doctor before starting them.