Dairy is a gut irritant
When you think of probiotic-rich foods, dairy products like yogurt, kefir, and aged cheeses probably come to mind.It's no wonder these traditional sources have been celebrated for generations thanks to a nutritional profile of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients.
However, despite dairy's reputation as a health food, it's actually one of the most common gut irritants.The culprit? Lactose – dairy's primary carbohydrate.In fact, up to 75% of the global population has some degree of lactose intolerance¹, leading to symptoms like bloating, gas, and digestive discomfort.
Research shows that lactose can inflame the gut lining², reduce beneficial bacteria diversity, and even decrease the abundance of crucial anti-inflammatory bacteria like Faecalibacterium prausnitzii³.
Modern dairy production raises additional concerns. Today's intensive farming practices often involve antibiotics and growth hormones, potentially compromising both milk quality and animal welfare⁴.
The good news? Vegan probiotics offer compelling advantages. These alternatives come packed with dietary fiber that naturally supports probiotic growth⁵, contain less saturated fat than dairy sources⁶, and promote reduced inflammation – creating an ideal environment for beneficial bacteria to thrive.That's why at minimiil, we've chosen to go dairy-free. It’s better for the gut, and because we use almond milk that is naturally rich in calcium and other vital nutrients like vitamin E and C you're not missing out on any of the good stuff.
Plant-based is better for the planet
Our dietary choices have a huge impact our carbon footprint, and shifting from dairy-based to plant-based options can dramatically reduce this. The environmental case for vegan probiotics is jaw-dropping.
- 3x fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to dairy-based alternatives
- 9x less land use
- Significantly reduced water consumption
- Lower carbon footprint throughout the production chain
By choosing vegan probiotics, you contribute to a healthier planet alongside nurturing your gut.Below you can see a viusalisation of the how much higher the CO2 footprint of dairy milk is versus plantbased milks.
What are probiotics?
Probiotics are the live microbes that provide many health benefits.
Every human body is home to trillions of microorganisms that live with us and help support our bodily functions and health. Not all of the microbes we may carry are helpful to us — some types(germs) can be harmful. But probiotics, also known as“good bacteria,” help to control the potentially harmful germs, and do some amazing things for your body.
The good bacteria in your gut can help keep your body healthy and happy by contributing to digestive health, immune health, serotonin production(‘the happy chemical’) and disease prevention.⁷
Futhermore, approximately 70% of the immune system is located in the gut, making probiotics key to enhancing immune defenses and keeping you healthy⁸.
There's also a compelling link between the gut and the brain, known as the gut-brain axis, where probiotics may improve mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and stress. This is believed to be due to the interaction between the gut microbiome and the brain. Thus consuming probiotics can positively affect your mood and mental health, boosting your overall well-being.⁹
If you suffer from allergies or eczema, probiotics can be particularly beneficial. Some studies have found that probiotics can reduce the incidence and severity of eczema and other allergies, particularly in infants and children as they regulate the body’s immune responses, helping to diminish the severity of allergic reactions and skin irritations¹⁰.They can also aid in weight management by influencing metabolism and fat storage, making them a valuable tool for maintaining a healthy lifestyle¹¹.
In a nutshell, probiotics(live bacteria) are a major component of your gut health. Your gut, which spans your entire digestive system from esophagus to anus, is not just about processing food. It significantly influences your overall health. By embracing probiotics, you're cultivating a garden of good bacteria within, fostering a stronger, healthier, and happier you.
