Probiotics are live microorganisms that research has confirmed are healthy for the host organism. They are a beneficial bacteria found in the intestinal tract of mammals and can be found in foods or dietary supplements used for therapeutic purposes. Sometimes probiotics are fed to livestock to improve digestion and health, much the same way they do in humans. These microorganisms are effective in balancing the gastrointestinal tract and female reproductive tract to reduce illness and infection.
Lactobacillus Acidophilus
Lactobacillus acidophilus is used to restore normal oral, gastrointestinal and vaginal flora in individuals who are affected by antibiotics or a yeast infections, according to Drugs.com. Information about using this supplementation during pregnancy and breast-feeding is not currently available. Products that contain live cultures will compete with the pathogen in the micro environment and help to restore normal bacterial flora. The microorganism is available in live yogurt cultures or in supplemental form. Lactobacillus acidophilus has been shown to inhibit the growth of microorganisms, including E. coli, Candida albicans and Gardenerela vaginalis.
Lactobacillus Bifidus
Lactobacillus bifida is a group of bacteria that normally lives in the intestines and has been found to be effective in the prevention of diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome and, in combination with Lactobacillus acidophilus, in the treatment of vaginal yeast infections. According to RxList.com, as a supplement, it works to decrease the bacteria that cause infections and inflammation in the intestinal tract. It appears to be safe for most children and adults when used for up to one year. However, women who are pregnant or breast-feeding, or individuals who have a weakened immune system, should use only under the advice of their physician.
Lactobacillus Bulgaricus
According to Probiotic.org, this organism is commonly found in both Bulgarian yogurt and Swiss cheese. Although taken as a dietary supplement, it is used in the dairy industry as a starter culture that helps to develop other probiotic microbes during the production of cheese and yogurt. The organism works in the digestive tract to reduce intestinal infections by excreting certain acids that changed the pH of the digestive tract. It also excretes natural antibiotics and blogs be stickiness of pathogens within the mucus layer of the intestines, thereby reducing infection in the side effects of overgrowth of yeast.
