Probiotics

The exact cause of IBS isn’t yet known, but there are some factors that are common in people with the condition. If you’ve got an abnormality in your digestive system, it may cause discomfort when releasing gas or stool. Your brain won’t send the accurate signals to your intestines which can result in your body overreacting to the digestive process, causing discomfort, constipation and diarrhoea. You’re more prone to developing IBS if you’ve had a serious bout of diarrhoea caused by an infection, or if you’ve got a lot of bacteria harbouring in the intestines. Stressful situations can also be a trigger for IBS in certain people, especially if it occurred during childhood.

Probiotics are ‘friendly’ live bacteria that are often added to yoghurts or taken as food supplements.

Evidence suggests that taking a probiotic supplement can help to prevent diarrhoea whilst taking antibiotics, and can help to ease some of the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

The best way to find out if probiotics work for you is by giving them a go, as some of them will work differently for different people.

Bacterial vaginosis occurs when there’s an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina.

Taking probiotics - which are packed full of good bacteria - may help to stabilise the levels of bacteria in your vagina, eliminating bacterial vaginosis.

There’s still plenty of ongoing research into probiotics, but it’s said that types of Lactobacillus bacteria are found in a healthy vagina.

Look out for ingredients like Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus rhamnosus.

Maintaining a healthy diet full of essential nutrients is a great way to keep your digestive system functioning the way it should.

our digestive system particularly needs B vitamins, which are usually found in fish, poultry, meat, dairy products, leafy greens and beans.

If you’re suffering from a digestive condition like Crohn’s disease, studies show that you may be more likely to have low levels of vitamin A, but you should always check with your GP before taking a new supplement to see if it’s safe and beneficial for you.