Do probiotics help your immune system?

Key Points

• Research supporting the use of probiotics for the immune system is growing. 
• Probiotics work by activating intestinal immune cells.
• Much research is focused on how different strains of probiotics may support different functions.

Probiotics have been studied for decades, and the evidence supporting the use of probiotics for immune system function is growing. 

So is the research into specific strains of probiotics and their various functions for immunity. In this article, we explore how probiotics may help support your immune health.

How do probiotics for immunity work? It’s all about the gut…

Probiotics work by activating immune cells in the intestinal tract and helping to balance beneficial microorganisms. More and more research shows the effectiveness of probiotics for the immune system due to the immune-regulating qualities of probiotic microorganisms.

 The World Health Organization (WHO) defines probiotics as: “live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit to the host”.

Gabbie explains that much of the new research is investigating specific probiotic strains. “So if you want to improve your immune health, you would look for a specific strain that would target your immune system. And, say you want to prevent any sickness during winter, you would take it over that time,” she says.

Certain strains of probiotics react beneficially with intestinal immune cells, so it’s important to choose the right ones

You’d be surprised how many strains of probiotics target the immune system

Many strains may be useful if you’re interested in taking probiotics for immunity. Research suggests that certain probiotics react beneficially with intestinal immune cells, potentially enhancing the body’s immune function. Bifidobacterium bifidum and bifidobacterium breve are two such strains. 

Other strains, such as lactobacillus rhamnosus, lactobacillus gasseri, lactobacillus crispatus and streptococcus thermophilus, have also been linked with increased immune function. 

Probiotics may increase the effectiveness of vaccinations, as well as helping alleviate allergies

Who may benefit from taking probiotics for immunity? 

Research shows the potential for probiotics to help treat a range of conditions and assist the immune system. Recently received a vaccination? Probiotics may increase the effectiveness of the inoculation. And there are promising results from studies that show immune-enhancing probiotics may aid in preventing and treating allergies. 

While it’s important to choose a strain of probiotic for a particular function, according to Gabbie, the research doesn’t identify a specific time of day or dose as being most beneficial for probiotic consumption. She says, “From a naturopathic perspective, it’s common to recommend the minimum dose that has a health effect.”

Discover more about probiotics for immunity

How probiotics support the immune system has been a topic of much research over the years. The specific strains of probiotics that may assist various functions and be valuable in treating disease is also an area of rigorous study. 

To learn more about probiotics, prebiotics, and other ways to support your immune system, consult your healthcare professional.

Related:

• What are the best vitamins for tiredness and lack of energy?
• What is probiotic skincare? And what are its benefits?
• Stress and immune system health

Gabbie Watt is a Naturopath and is passionate about blending evidence-based practice and traditional natural medicine into her approach. With experience previously working as a Radiation Therapist, Gabbie’s professional background in conventional medicine has been instrumental in shaping her holistic approach to health.

Reviewed by Healthylife Health Experts October 2023.