The Surprising Benefits of Probiotics

Good bacteria isn’t just for digestion anymore.

The Surprising Benefits of Probiotics

Known as “good bacteria," probiotics are essential for a healthy gut and digestive system but they may also play a significant role in your overall health. Many experts, from doctors and nutritionists, to researchers and scientists, all suspect that probiotics may have wide-ranging effects on multiple systems in the body and are exploring new research on the potential power of probiotics.

Watch: The First Oz Investigation on Probiotics

For Brain Health

For Brain Health

Some experts believe that the gut and the brain are closely linked, suggesting that some bacteria strains may benefit the brain and by extension, conditions that affect the mind. In a 2016 study in the journal Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, a correlation between probiotic consumption and improved cognitive function encourages further research into the effects of probiotics on Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

Watch: How Your Gut Influences Your Brain

Is Your Stomach Cramp Actually Diverticulitis?

It may not just be indigestion.

We've all been there — we get a cramp in our stomach, maybe with some nausea or constipation. It's easy to think it may just be indigestion. But what if it's something more serious like diverticulitis? That's a condition of inflammation or infection in one or more small pouches that can form in your digestive tract. Here's how to tell the difference between the pain and how to know when you should see a doctor.