Everything you need to know about probiotics

I am sure you have heard the expressions “gut feeling” or “butterflies in your stomach”, perhaps you have even used them before? We use these expressions for a reason. Our stomach and intestinal track react to, and are sensitive to, emotions which are then signaled to our brain. Your brain communicates with your stomach’s microbiota. Keeping that gastrointestinal system healthy has become a major focus in helping us deal with the role that stress and strong emotions play on our physical health.

Specific health and nutritional products include nutrient rich bacteria, like probiotics, to keep our entire system healthy to counteract the physical damage our own brain imposes on us.

Foods like kefir, yogurt, cheeses, and sauerkraut naturally contain probiotics. Dietary supplements that contain probiotics are soaring up the popularity chain in the dietary supplement world. Probiotic use has expanded into foods like baking confectioneries, porridges, cereal bars, coffee, apple juice, glucose syrup, and even ice cream. These new products are in response to flourishing popularity of probiotics and consumers who desire alternates to the standard capsule or liquid supplements. In 2016, probiotics made over $4 billion (of all dietary supplement sales in the US) and are projected to continue to grow through 2018.

HOW DO PROBIOTICS WORK?

If you lose the “good” and necessary bacteria in your stomach, probiotics can help replace them. Probiotics are important for immune system function, skin conditions, IBS, and other digestive health concerns. Recent research has connected the use of probiotics to heart health (with aiding in high blood pressure) as well as slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s. The most common probiotics used in consumer products are:

Many types of bacteria are classified as probiotics. They all have different benefits, but these are the most common types. There is research being published every day about the different probiotics and their health advantages. Consult your doctor prior to taking a probiotic to ensure you are taking the one that is best for your health needs.

Insurance Solutions for Health, Nutrition, and Lifestyle

Admiral’s nutraceutical insurance solutions provide some of the most comprehensive coverages available on the market. Working with our team of experienced underwriters, we can help you solve your Health, Nutrition and Lifestyle coverage needs.

Appointed wholesale brokers should contact their underwriter for more information.

Retail agents and brokers not working with an Admiral appointed wholesale broker can locate an Admiral partner through our online locator. 

Products and services are provided by one or more insurance company subsidiaries of W. R. Berkley Corporation. Not all products and services are available in every jurisdiction, and the precise coverage afforded by any insurer is subject to the actual terms and conditions of the policies as issued. Certain coverages may be provided through surplus lines insurance company subsidiaries of W. R. Berkley Corporation through licensed surplus lines brokers. Surplus lines insurers do not generally participate in state guaranty funds and insureds are therefore not protected by such funds.

Admiral Insurance Group is pleased to share this material with its customers. Please note, however, that nothing in this document should be construed as legal advice or the provision of professional consulting services. This material is for general informational purposes only, and while reasonable care has been utilized in compiling this information, no warranty or representation is made as to accuracy or completeness.