What are Probiotics and do you need them?
by Michael Brooks
zone3
This article answers
those questions and gives you some advice when looking for good probiotic
sources.
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 BuyingBe 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 Brooks has been a life long follower and proponent of the
fitness lifestyle. Through his avid research, Mr. Brooks 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 Brooks is the publisher and editor-in-chief for the health
information site.
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