There have been many studies and discussions over the health benefits of probiotics, and these micro-organisms are becoming common supplements in foods and on their own. Specific benefits can vary from person to person, depending on factors such as the type of probiotic being taken, and the physical health of the person taking them.
What Are Probiotics
Probiotics are "good" bacteria that are naturally occurring in a variety of sources. These bacteria are compatible with and beneficial to the human body, where similar bacteria is naturally present. Sometimes though, their presence is decreased due to illness, prescription medication, diet, age, or lifestyle. In these cases, probiotic supplements may be prescribed or recommended.
Supplements aren't the only way to get probiotics, however. These friendly bacteria are also present in many varieties of yogurt and associated products like smoothies or yogurt-based health drinks, as well as some other fermented or yeast-added foods.
How do Probiotics Work
When probiotics are ingested, they make their way into the small intestine. There, they flourish and grow, multiplying to maintain a healthy and normal level of friendly bacteria.
If a bacterial infection occurs, the probiotic bacteria serves as a defense against severe infection and all of its related health problems.
The Health Benefits of Probiotics
Probiotics can be recommended to aid in healing many different types of ailments and illnesses. While the bacteria themselves aren't a cure for disease, they are often used in conjunction with other treatments.
Digestive and Bowel Illnesses
Probiotics thrive in the intestinal tracts, keeping things running smoothly and regularly, and aiding in the digestion of food. The health benefits of probiotics can improve conditions such as:
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Colitis
- Crohn's disease
- Ulcers
- Stomach viruses
- Urinary tract infections
Probiotics are also said to help with the prevention of colon cancer, as they can maintain a healthy colon and prevent infections from spreading there.
Other Benefits
There are other benefits to adding probiotics to your diet, especially if you are or have recently been taking antibiotics to treat a medical condition. Antibiotics, as their name suggests, are designed to kill bacteria. Unfortunately, they can't tell the difference between friendly and harmful bacteria. Probiotics can help to restore the good bacteria in your body.
Other benefits include:
- Lowering cholesterol
- Improving symptoms of lactose intolerance
- Lowering or maintaining blood pressure
- Fighting infections and preventing bacterial diseases
- Reducing intestinal swelling or inflammation
- Improving absorption of trace minerals
- Treating eczema and other bacterial skin conditions, especially in young children
- Countering the effects of aging and poor diet choices
- Fighting tooth decay and gum disease
There is currently research being done into the health benefits of probiotics for diabetics. While there are no definitive answers yet, the research looks promising so far.
Sources of Probiotics
Probiotics and other similar bacteria can be found in a number of different foods. The very best source is yogurt, which is vegetarian-friendly, along with other dairy products like soft cheeses. If you're a vegan, however, finding probiotics that will suit your diet becomes a bit tricky. Here are some other foods that contain friendly bacteria, including probiotics:
- Kombucha
- Miso
- Tempeh
- Fortified juice or soy-based drinks
- Sauerkraut
- Pickles and pickled vegetables
Probiotics are also available as supplements, in capsule, liquid, or powdered form. You can find these supplements at your local health food or general nutrition store.
Probiotics for All Ages
One of the advantages to using probiotics and supplements is that they are not harmful for babies or elderly patients. Since healthy bacteria are naturally occurring both in the human body and in some foods, they can be consumed by almost anyone.
Only very young infants or those with serious intestinal issues shouldn't consume probiotics unless advised by a physician. It's always a good idea to check with your doctor before changing your diet or adding supplements, even if you're in overall good health.
Research on the effects of probiotics is continually being conducted and updated, and you can keep up to date with the latest findings at the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics.
