“Probiotic drinks can be a beneficial addition to your diet for promoting gut health in several ways,” says Helen Perks, registered nutritional therapist and founder of The Hygeia Clinic.

She explains that they have five main benefits:

Colonisation of the gut

“Probiotic drinks introduce live beneficial bacteria into the digestive system. When these bacteria reach the gut, they can colonise and increase the population of good bacteria. This can help outcompete potentially harmful bacteria and create a more balanced gut environment.”

Production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)

“Beneficial bacteria ferment dietary fibre and produce SCFAs, which are vital energy sources for gut cells. They also play a role in reducing inflammation in the gut and strengthening the gut barrier.”

Strengthening the gut barrier

“A healthy gut barrier prevents unwanted substances from entering the bloodstream. Probiotics can help reinforce this barrier, reducing the risk of substances like toxins or pathogens from getting through.”

Modulation of the immune system

“A significant portion of the body’s immune cells resides in the gut. Probiotics can interact with these cells, enhancing the immune system’s ability to respond to threats.”

Improvement of digestive symptoms

“Many people find relief from various digestive symptoms after introducing probiotic drinks into their routine. This can range from reduced bloating and gas to improved regularity.”

The efficacy of probiotic drinks, Perks says, often depends on the strains of bacteria they contain, the concentration, and whether these bacteria can survive the journey through the stomach to colonise the gut effectively.

Looking to improve your gut health? Here are 5 of the best probiotic drinks to include in your diet