Probiotics
What exactly are probiotics and why do we need them? Probiotics are living organisms that are similar to the good bacteria found in out intestinal tract. We typically consume probiotics in the form of dietary supplements or in certain types of food. Examples of foods containing probiotics are yogurt, fermented and unfermented milk, miso, tempeh, and some juices and soy beverages. In probiotic foods and supplements, the bacteria may have been present originally or added during preparation. Most often the bacteria comes from two groups Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium. Within each group, there are different species (for example, Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidus), and within each species, different strains (or varieties). A few common probiotics, such as Saccharomyces boulardii, are yeasts, which are different from bacteria.
Why do these bacteria help our gut? First, it is essential to understand that our bodies contain both good bacteria that is vital to proper development of the immune system, to protection against microorganisms that could cause disease, and to the digestion and absorption of food and nutrients. Each person's mix of bacteria varies. Interactions between a person and the microorganisms in their body, and among the microorganisms themselves, can be crucial to the person's health and well-being.
The bacter balacing act can be thrown off when a person is on antibiotics or unfriendly bacteria enter the mix. Antibiotics kill normal flora (good bacteria) in the gut along with bad bacteria. Probiotics can be used to offset the side effects of antibiotics (gas, cramping, or diarrhea). Dieases casuing bacteria, yeasts, fungi, and parasites upset the balance and cause conditions like IBS, infection with Helicobacter pylori, tooth decay, infectious diarrhea, skin infections, etc. Another interesting part of probioctics is the fact that there are cells in the digestive tract connected with the immune system. While more research needs to be conducted, there is a theory is that if you alter the microorganisms in a person's intestinal tract (as by introducing probiotic bacteria), you can affect the immune system's defenses.
Bottom Line: Probiotics introduce needed beneficial bacteria into our gastrointestenial tract. The food products that contin probiotics also contain other beneficial vitamins and minerals and are low in fat and calories (yogurt for example) that should be added to your diet.
Comments
Post has no comments.