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"Probiotics - the 'Friendly' Bacteria"

By Kearney Adams


It can be confusing understanding how probiotics can improve your health, especially since companies have started marketing products containing PRE-biotics as well as PRO-biotics.

First, they are defined as live bacteria that resemble the beneficial bacteria found in your digestive system. They help to maintain the proper balance between the good bacteria and bad bacteria found there.

Why are these "friendly" bacteria so important?

In a normal human digestive tract, you will find around 400 different types of bacteria that help to control the growth of harmful bacteria, thereby promoting a healthy digestive system.

The largest group of these intestinal bacteria is called lactic acid bacteria, which is commonly found in yogurt that contains the bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus.

However, the two most common types are Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium.

The most common use of probiotics is to prevent diarrhea resulting from extended antibiotic use. When you use antibiotics for extended periods, certain harmful bacteria can develop including clostridium difficile, otherwise known as C. diff.

With this condition, you may experience diarrhea or inflammation of the colon.

These bacteria can help restore the natural bacterial balance in the digestive system if these harmful bacteria develop.

However, there are many other benefits associated with probiotics.

They may help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) from forming. The lactobacilli family of bacteria is considered the predominant source of healthy bacteria in the urinary tract. Research has shown that the presence of Lactobacillus in the stomach and vaginal areas is associated with a reduced risk of UTIs.

They can also be a useful treatment for individuals with irritable bowel syndrome. Individuals with this condition are often deficient in these beneficial bacteria, and often respond well to probiotic therapy.

Probiotic therapy has also been found beneficial for individuals with Crohn's disease. Although research is mixed in this area, there are several small studies suggesting that certain healthy bacteria may help prevent a relapse of Crohn's disease.

Furthermore, they may help to enhance the digestive process.

In the digestive system, food is broken down into its basic elements by these bacteria, allowing almost total absorption of nutrients to the intestinal walls. They also help to keep the intestinal tract clean.

In addition, there are scientists to believe that they can improve overall health. In one small Swedish study taken in 2005, it was found that individuals who were given Lactobacillus missed less work as a result the respiratory or stomach problems than individuals who were not given it.

Here are some other possible uses of probiotics:

As they are already present in a normal digestive system, probiotics are generally considered safe to take. They are typically found in foods such as yogurt, fermented and unfermented milk, some juices and soy drinks.

In conclusion, there may be a risk for people whose immune systems are impaired. But for the rest of you, who want to live a healthier life, I recommend you eat foods containing these healthy bacteria on a regular basis.

 


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