Can Probiotics Help Seniors Feel Better?

Are you the family caregiver of an elderly relative that you help care for that struggles with all kinds of intestinal distress? If so, you might want to ask their doctor about probiotics. These live bacteria supplements actually help with gut health and crowd out the bad bacteria that can cause tummy troubles. When it comes to creating a solid elderly homecare plan for overall health, probiotics could play an important part in boosting your elderly relative’s quality of life.

Lexington NC – Can Probiotics Help Seniors Feel Better?” width=”300″ height=”180″ /> Homecare Lexington NC – Can Probiotics Help Seniors Feel Better?

Probiotics are supplements that are generally taken in pill or powder form, and there are some fermented foods with naturally occurring good bacteria like yogurt, sauerkraut and kimchee. Probiotics can be especially helpful for seniors because they are more likely to have an imbalance due to age, stress, and frequent antibiotic use. Whether their intestinal distress is a short term problem or something more chronic, probiotics may be the solution.

There are many different types of health conditions that seniors often struggle with where probiotics can make a real difference. Probiotics should only be taken under the instruction of a doctor, because there are many different kinds on the market. The doctor can help your elderly relative decide what type of bacteria they need and what type and brand.

Here are some internal issues common in elderly adults that are often improved with probiotics:

General Digestive Issues

There are several different kinds of digestive issues and chronic conditions that affect the gut, including inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn’s disease. When combined with a healthy diet structured to avoid trigger foods, probiotics can provide some relief. They may also be helpful for seniors struggling with chronic gas, bloating and diarrhea.

Poor Immune System

There’s a connection between a healthy gut and the body’s immune system. Elderly adults generally have a weaker immune system anyhow due to age. When they add in the healthy bacteria that come from probiotics, they can boost their body’s defenses against invading germs.

After Antibiotics

Antibiotics kill all the bacteria in the gut, both helpful and harmful. After taking a round of antibiotics, many seniors experience worsening symptoms of gastrointestinal problems. With probiotics, the balance can be restored and the body can get back to normal.

Post Food Poisoning

When a person has suffered through food poisoning, it means that the gut is overrun with harmful bacteria. Not only should an elderly person turn to probiotics after a bout with food poisoning, they should take it regularly to fight off bad bacteria in future meals.

These are just a few of the health issues that probiotics can address in elderly people. Other ailments include yeast infections, asthma, allergies, skin conditions and general mood. Family caregivers that are interested in providing complete elderly homecare for their aging loved ones should look into probiotics in more detail.

Source:  http://www.todaysgeriatricmedicine.com/archive/030209p12.shtml

If you or an aging loved one are considering Homecare Services in Lexington NC, please contact the caring staff at TenderHearted Home Care today. (704) 612-4132.