Probiotics Explained: How They Support Digestion, Immunity, and Mood
If you've been hearing more and more about probiotics and wondering what they actually do, you're not alone.
Probiotics are one of the most talked-about supplements in the wellness world today—and for good reason. These beneficial bacteria play a powerful role in supporting digestion, immune function, and even mood. But how do probiotics work, and why are they such a key part of feeling better, naturally?
Let’s take a closer look.
What Are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live microorganisms—most often bacteria—that provide health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. They’re often referred to as “good” or “friendly” bacteria because they help maintain a healthy balance in your gut microbiome.
Your gut is home to trillions of microorganisms, both helpful and harmful. A well-balanced microbiome, rich in diverse beneficial bacteria, supports key functions throughout the body. Probiotics help maintain this balance, especially when your gut is out of sync due to stress, diet, wiping out good bacteria, or lifestyle factors.
What Does a Probiotic Do for the Body?
Probiotics can support multiple systems in the body, with wide-ranging effects that go far beyond digestion. Here's what probiotics help with:
1. Supports Digestive Health
Probiotics play a major role in supporting healthy digestion. They can help with regularity, ease bloating, and improve overall gut comfort by balancing the bacteria in your digestive tract.*
2. Strengthens the Immune System
A large portion of the immune system is located in the gut. By supporting a healthy gut environment, probiotics may help reinforce your body’s natural defenses.*
3. Promotes Natural Mood Support
Perhaps most fascinating: probiotics may also support mood. Thanks to the gut-brain connection, we now know that the gut produces many of the same neurotransmitters as the brain. Probiotics help maintain a gut environment that supports emotional balance and stress resilience.*
How Do Probiotics Work?
When you take a probiotic supplement, you're introducing specific strains of beneficial bacteria into your gut. These good bacteria can help:
- Crowd out less beneficial or harmful microbes
- Support the gut lining and digestive function
- Assist with nutrient absorption
- Communicate with the brain through the gut-brain axis
Some probiotic formulas also include prebiotics, which are non-digestible fibers that feed the probiotics—helping them thrive and do their best work. This creates a more effective and synergistic approach to gut support.
How Long Does It Take for Probiotics to Work?
Probiotic benefits can vary by individual. Some people notice results—like improved digestion or better mood—within a few days. For others, it may take a few weeks of consistent use to feel a difference.*
If your gut has been imbalanced for years, it’s important to give it time to rebalance. Consistency is key. Taking a high-quality probiotic daily can help support long-term gut health and emotional well-being.*
Do I Need to Take Probiotics Every Day?
For ongoing benefits, daily use is recommended. Probiotics don’t typically stay in the system forever, so taking them consistently helps maintain their positive effects. That said, some formulas (like our prebiotic-containing options) may continue to offer benefits even if you skip a day.*
Which Probiotic Is Right for Me?
Not all probiotics are created equal—and when it comes to choosing the right one, your individual needs matter. At Lifted Naturals, we offer four different mood-supporting probiotic formulas, each designed to support digestion, mood, and overall well-being in a slightly different way.
Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
Mood Boosting Probiotic
Our top-selling formula, featuring 9 feel-good probiotic strains plus the prebiotic GOS, known to support both digestion and natural mood balance.* Ideal if you don’t have histamine sensitivities and want full-spectrum gut-brain support.
Bifidus Mood Boost
A histamine-friendly probiotic + prebiotic formula with 4 specific bifidus strains and prebiotic GOS for added digestive and emotional support.* Great for sensitive systems looking for a gentler option.
Mood Super Strains
Our probiotic-only formula (no prebiotic), designed for those with histamine concerns or who simply prefer a cleaner ingredient profile. It includes Lactobacillus Rhamnosus GG and 5 additional bifidus strains.
SBO Mood Boost
A spore-based probiotic, ideal for those who’ve tried traditional probiotics without success. This potent formula is histamine-friendly and does not include a prebiotic—great for travel or simplified gut support.
The Bottom Line: Probiotics Help Your Body Thrive
Whether you’re looking to improve digestion, support your immune system, or gently uplift your mood, probiotics offer natural support for how you feel—starting in the gut.
With the right probiotic and a bit of consistency, you may be surprised by how much better you feel.
Ready to support your mood through the gut-brain connection?
Browse our full line of mood-supporting probiotics and discover what works best for your unique body.