Can probiotics help you breathe easier?

When you think of probiotics, you probably picture gut health — balanced digestion, a stronger immune system, and overall wellbeing. But did you know your lungs also have their own unique community of bacteria? This discovery has transformed how we understand respiratory health and the powerful connection between your gut and lungs, known as the gut-lung axis.

Lets start with the science…

In 2010, researchers discovered that your lungs have their own microbiome.¹Prior to this, there was very little information available about lung microbiome, and the gut-lung axis.

You may be more familiar with beneficial gut bacteria, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, and how maintaining their balance is crucial to preventing disease and supporting overall well-being. Similarly, the lungs also rely on a balanced mix of bacterial species, including Prevotella, Veillonella, Streptococcus, Neisseria, and Fusobacterium, to support healthy breathing, protect against disease, and regulate the rhythm of inhalation and exhalation.²³

Research⁴regarding probiotics and how they interact in the prevention and treatment of respiratory diseases, such as asthma and COPD, is growing. Supporting the gut microbiome through probiotics and a nutrient-rich diet has been shown to improve systemic health — and, yes, help you breathe easier too!

So, HOW do probiotics support lung health?

Emerging evidence suggests probiotics may help manage asthma and other respiratory conditions, including coronavirus, in the following ways: ⁵⁶

Reducing inflammation – probiotics, particularly strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium lactis, can help reduce lung inflammation by improving the balance of gut bacteria.
Strengthen gut-lung axis – a healthy gut produces beneficial compounds called short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). These can travel to the lungs, supporting optimal function and preventing pathogens and damage.
Regulate immune response – probiotics help modulate the immune system, leading to better overall respiratory resilience.
Reducing respiratory infections – research shows that taking a daily probiotic is associated with fewer symptoms of upper respiratory infections.

The takeaway

So, can probiotics help you breathe easier? The answer is yes! By nurturing your gut microbiome, you’re not only supporting digestion but also promoting stronger lung health and a more balanced immune system.

Now you know, check out Chuckling Goats Probiotic Kefir , which contains 27 naturally occurring live probiotic cultures!

Want to learn more? Check out our other articles on respiratory health !

Any questions? Contact one of our Nutritional Therapists via live chat, weekdays from 8 am to 8 pm.

Can probiotics help you breathe easier?

Lets start with the science…

So, HOW do probiotics support lung health?

The takeaway

References

Questions? Talk to a Nutritional Therapist on live chat!

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