What are Probiotics and do you need them?

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What are Probiotics and do you need them?

Copyright 2005

Have you had your probiotics today? You may have and do not

even know it. Probiotics are the small “good” bacteria that

help keep the natural balance of organisms in the

intestines. Probiotics has been consumed in Europe for

hundreds of years but are just now catching on in the

United States as a dietary supplement. The largest group of

probiotic bacteria in the intestine is lactic acid bacteria

of which Lactobacillus acidophilus, contained in yogurt, is

probably the best known.

Why do I need Probiotics?

The most common use for probiotics is for the prevention of

diarrhea caused by antibiotics. Antibiotics tend to kill

all bacteria, even the good kind. Killing the “good”

bacteria can sometimes allow the harmful bacteria to

multiply which leads to diarrhea.

In addition to diarrhea prevention, studies indicate that

probiotics may also help with the following conditions:

Allergies – Probiotics may assist in alleviating atopic

eczema. The exact cause of eczema is not known but there

are various theories, some linking it to an allergic

reaction to milk and other foods.

Respiratory infections – Studies indicate that children who

drank milk with Lactobacillus GG (GG is a particular strain

of probiotics discovered by Dr. Sherwood Gorbach and Barry

Goldin) had fewer absences from school due to respiratory

infections.

Urinary infections – Some studies suggest that yogurt

containing Lactobacillus acidophilus may boost immune cells

that help to protect the urinary tract and help reduce

vaginal infections.

Cancer – Prebiotics may help prevent cancerous changes in

the large intestine. Preventing these changes might help

protect the body against colon cancer.

How do I get Probiotics?

You can get probiotics through food such as yogurt or

supplements. Many yogurts contain the live cultures but

check the label to make sure it says “live” or “active”.

The closer the yogurt is to the expiration date, the less

of the live culture will remain active.

If you choose to get your probiotics through supplements,

you have the option of capsules, powders and liquids. All

are available at most health food stores. Check the label

for the number of live cells. They should have no less than

one billion live cells per dosage. You may also want to

check on the strain of bacteria. Studies show that some

strains may work better than other strains. Some of the

bacteria with positive results include Lactobacillus

acidophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus

johnsonii, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus reuteri,

Bifidobacterium bifidum and Bifidobacterium longum.

Be Selective When Buying

Be aware that probiotics are classified as dietary

supplements, which means they are not regulated by the

government. You cannot always be sure of exactly what you

are getting. I ran across one independent study that found

8 out of 25 probiotic supplements contained less than the

minimum one billion live cells claimed on the label. Stick

with brands you trust or ask your health store clerk for a

recommended brand.

About the Author:

Mike has been a life long follower and proponent of

the fitness lifestyle. Through his avid research, Mr.

has come to the realization that being healthy is a

choice and encompasses not only proper diet but also a

fitness regimen that includes the mind, body and soul.

Mike is the publisher and editor-in-chief for the

health information site http://www.Ultimatehealthreport.com

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