Your Beverage Guide to Probiotics for Digestive System

What are probiotics drinks, and how are they prepared?

Probiotic drinks, also known as fermented drinks, are beverages that contain live cultures of probiotics. These drinks are typically made by fermenting a base liquid, such as milk, water, or juice, with a probiotic culture. The fermentation process allows the probiotics to multiply and produce lactic acid, which gives the drink its characteristic tangy taste. Some examples of probiotic drinks include:

• Kefir: A fermented milk drink that is made by adding kefir grains (a mixture of lactic acid bacteria and yeasts) to milk.
• Yogurt drinks: A fermented milk drink made by adding a probiotic culture to milk and allowing it to ferment.
• Kombucha: A fermented tea drink made by adding a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY) to tea and allowing it to ferment.
• Water kefir: A fermented drink made by adding water kefir grains to sugar water or fruit juice and allowing it to ferment.
• Southern Breeze Cold Brew Sweet Tea Plus Probiotics: We are happy to share the we have launched new Original and Raspberry Plus Probiotic sweet tea products have been crafted with the same great flavor found in Southern Breeze’s variety of iced teas but with added benefits that now support healthy digestion and heart health.

Some Probiotic drinks are prepared using commercially available probiotic cultures, rather than using traditional fermentation methods.

Probiotic drinks can be prepared at home or purchased from a store, as long as they contain live cultures of probiotics. However, it's important to note that probiotic drinks are not regulated by the FDA in the same way that dietary supplements are, so the actual probiotic content of a drink can vary. It's a good idea to check the label or speak with a healthcare professional before consuming probiotic drinks, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How do probiotics benefit your digestive system?

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in sufficient amounts, can provide a health benefit to the host. The digestive system is one of the main areas of the body that probiotics can benefit. In the gut, probiotics can help to maintain a healthy balance of bacteria and other microorganisms, which is known as the gut microbiome.

Probiotics can benefit the digestive system in several ways, including:

• Helping to break down food and absorb nutrients more effectively
• Stimulating the production of enzymes that aid in digestion
• Helping to keep the gut lining healthy, which can reduce inflammation and the risk of disease
• Helping to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria that can cause infections or food poisoning
• Helping to regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation or diarrhea

It's important to note that not all probiotics are created equal and the type of probiotic and the amount needed for benefit will vary from person to person. Consulting a healthcare professional is advisable to help determine the best probiotic for you and the optimal dosage.

Do probiotics help digestion?

Probiotics may help improve digestion by increasing the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut. These beneficial bacteria can help to break down food, absorb nutrients, and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria that can cause digestive issues. Probiotics can also help to promote regular bowel movements, which can alleviate constipation and other digestive issues.

Probiotics may also help improve symptoms of digestive disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) by regulating the immune system's response in the gut and impacting the gut-brain axis, which then can regulate the motility and secretion. However, research on probiotics and digestion is still ongoing and more evidence is needed to fully understand the potential effects of probiotics on digestive health.

It is worth noting that probiotics may not have the same effect on everyone, results may vary depending on the individual. In some cases, probiotics may not improve digestion or may even cause negative side effects. It is important to speak with your doctor or a healthcare professional before starting to take probiotics, especially if you have a health condition or are taking other medications.

Why are some probiotic drinks so expensive?

1. Production costs: The process of fermenting a liquid with a probiotic culture is generally more time-consuming and complex than the production of other types of beverages. Additionally, the cost of the probiotic cultures and other ingredients used in the fermentation process can be high.
2. Quality control: The production of probiotic drinks requires strict quality control measures to ensure that the finished product contains the right types and amounts of probiotics. This can add to the overall cost of production.
3. Limited availability: Many probiotic drinks are produced by smaller companies or are not widely available, which can make them more expensive to purchase.
4. Research and Development: A lot of research goes into development of probiotic culture that can survive the acidic environment of stomach, can survive high temperature, pressure and shear forces of the gut and then produce beneficial effects in human body. This is quite an expensive process.
5. Branding and packaging: Probiotic drinks are often marketed as premium or specialty products, which can also add to their cost. The packaging materials and design that goes in to making it appealing to consumer also add to the cost of the product.

It's worth noting that not all probiotic drinks are expensive, and price can vary depending on the brand and type of probiotic drink. Additionally, it is always a good idea to compare prices and read ingredient labels when purchasing probiotic drinks or any other health supplements.

Southern Breeze's new Plus Probiotics iced tea goes beyond digestive health to support your holistic health. One tea bag provides your daily dose of probiotics and compared to other forms of probiotics, it doesn't need refrigeration and is available at an accessible price points starting at $6.25 per box of 20 servings.

How long do I wait to eat or drink after taking probiotics?

It is generally recommended to wait at least 30 minutes to an hour after taking probiotics before eating or drinking. This is because eating or drinking immediately after taking probiotics can dilute the probiotics and reduce their effectiveness. Additionally, consuming foods or drinks that are too hot or acidic can also damage the probiotics, further reducing their efficacy. Therefore, it is a good idea to take probiotics on an empty stomach, and to avoid consuming anything hot or acidic for at least 30 minutes after taking them.

Can probiotics cause diarrhea?

Probiotics can potentially cause diarrhea as a side effect. This is because when probiotics are introduced to the gut, they can disrupt the balance of bacteria and yeast, causing an overgrowth of certain types of microorganisms. This can lead to increased gas, bloating, and loose stools. However, this side effect is generally considered to be mild and temporary. Additionally, some studies have shown that probiotics may help to alleviate diarrhea caused by other factors such as antibiotic use or infection. If you experience diarrhea after starting probiotic supplement, talk with your doctor. They will help you to determine if probiotics are the cause and whether you should continue taking them.

What is the best time to take probiotics?

According to many studies, it is recommended to take probiotics in the morning before having your breakfast.

What are signs probiotics are working?

Signs that probiotics may be working include improvements in digestion, such as reduced bloating, gas and constipation, as well as a strengthened immune system, and improvements in skin conditions, such as eczema. Additionally, some people report an overall sense of improved well-being and a reduction in feelings of anxiety or depression. However, it is important to note that individual response to probiotics can vary and it may take several weeks or even months to notice the full effects.