GO WITH YOUR GUT.

Research has proved that a healthy gut is the secret to a healthy life. The good news is that it’s within reach with the help of beneficial bacteria known as probiotics.

Your health is your most valuable asset and in today’s uncertain world it’s essential to look after it. Although underestimated for many years, good gut health is now recognised as crucial in maintaining your body’s strength and vigour.

“Current research has shown that the estimated 100 trillion bacteria in your digestive system are directly linked to diseases and conditions both physical and mental that you may be susceptible to,” explains Jason Anthony, MD and founder of Efficient Microbes, a South African producer of probiotics, including the Rawbiotics range.

Certain unhealthy bacteria in the gut can cause bloating, diarrhea, stomach discomfort, constipation as well as other conditions such as arthritis, obesity, high blood sugar, high cholesterol and even depression.

However, there are many beneficial bacteria that assist in establishing physical wellbeing, an active metabolism and good mental health. These beneficial bacteria enable your body to absorb the vitamins and minerals from the food you eat, raising your immunity and helping you to fight off disease. The secret is to ensure that you are getting enough of the good bacteria.

“Fortunately, these days you can strengthen your digestive system by taking probiotics on a regular basis,” says Jason who launched their Rawbiotics range with the aim of making natural, non-freeze-dried probiotics readily available. “These probiotics are specifically formulated to encourage the proliferation of beneficial bacteria in your gut.”

Based on ground-breaking microbial technology developed in the USA, Rawbiotics products consist of a liquid containing a blend of live beneficial bacteria. “The many live strains in their natural, raw state makes these probiotics very effective,” says Jason.

Keep in mind that there are different types of probiotics; freeze-dried and liquid, single and multi-strain. “The problem with freeze-dried products is that they are made up of individual strains grown in isolation, and there is also no guarantee that they will rehydrate before passing through the intestine. This is why probiotics in liquid form are considered more effective,” Jason explains. “Instead of a single strain our products contain a blend of many different live strains grown together, providing a more comprehensive probiotic. This is what makes Rawbiotics products unique.”

Rawbiotics offers four different products each with the same blend of probiotics but fermented with different combinations of herbal extracts to address different needs.

Available in 200ml, 500ml and litre containers, the range includes:

DAILY. Take this for prevention and maintenance and to counteract the effect of antibiotics. The herbs it contains, Chamomile, Rose Hip, Olive Leaf, Elderberry, Siberian Ginseng and Astragalus, are known to promote energy and well-being.

GUT. Supplemented with herbs such as Lemon Balm, Peppermint and Rose Hip, this product is tailored to assist people with major imbalances and who suffer from digestive disorders such as IBS, bloating, diarrhea and acid reflux.

DEFENCE. A blend of immunity building bacteria and herbs like Ginger and Turmeric, Defence provides increased immune support helping you fight off infections.

KIDS. With the addition of Peppermint, Lemon Balm, Chamomile and Elderberry, this is specially formulated to promote healthy growth and good nutrition.

You can take Rawbiotics products at the recommended rate at any time of the day with or without food. “We often suggest adding Rawbiotics to a smoothie, shake, fruit juice or breakfast cereal so that it becomes a habit in the mornings,” explains Jason. “You don’t need to refrigerate these products. If you keep them at room temperature and out of direct sunlight, the contents will last for two years when unopened, and up to three months once opened.” As no animal-derived products are included, Rawbiotics are suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

In addition to taking probiotics, keep your gut in good shape with a healthy lifestyle. Eat lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, take sufficient fibre and cut down on fats and sugar. Drink plenty of water and watch the amount of alcohol you consume. Reduce your stress levels by exercising regularly and getting enough sleep.

Most importantly, only take antibiotics when absolutely necessary. Antibiotics can destroy beneficial bacteria as well as those they’re fighting off so use them with caution.

For more information, visit rawbiotics.co.za