In the early 1900s, a Russian scientist realized that his research showed evidence that people who consumed fermented milk were healthier and lived longer than those who did not. More recently, scientists have developed probiotic yogurt, which is fermented milk with carefully selected bacteria added for digestive health. The term "probiotics" was introduced in the 1950s and, loosely translated from Latin and Greek, means "for life." As with starting any new health initiatives, consult your doctor first.
Benefits
Probiotic yogurt contains live bacterial cultures that provide a well-balanced gastrointestinal environment and encourage the development of vitamin K and several B vitamins created by the bacteria. Probiotic yogurt also helps your body absorb magnesium, iron, calcium and zinc. It can help develop and maintain a healthy digestive system, which can increase immune responses and detoxify carcinogens. This immune system reinforcement comes from the strengthening of defenses to fight infection, the increased activity of white cells and the increased production of antibodies that help fight disease.
Types of Probiotic Bacteria
The bacterial strains contained in probiotic yogurt vary greatly, but those commonly used are Lactobacillus, Streptococcus and Bifidobacterium. Several different Lactobacillus cultures are available in probiotic yogurt products because these cultures can improve lactose digestion in people who have a history of lactose intolerance. Some products also contain yeasts such as Saccharomyces.
Yogurt as a Remedy
One important use of probiotic yogurt is bacterial rebalancing -- the addition of "good" intestinal bacteria that is lost when you take an antibiotic medication to fight infection-causing bacteria. In the April 2002 issue of "Pediatrics," Dr. Cornelius Van Niel and colleagues reported that Lactobacillus cultures have been shown to reduce the length of an acute infectious diarrheal attack in children. Additionally, probiotics can provide symptom-reducing benefits for children who are allergic to milk protein. Adults may use it to reduce the symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome, or to help suppress H. Pylori, a bacterium known to produce peptic ulcers. Women can eat probiotic yogurt to restore their normal levels of vaginal microorganisms after a bout of bacterial vaginosis.
Choosing a Probiotic Yogurt
Not all probiotic yogurt products are created equal, and there is no standard recommendation regarding an effective dose. To receive the greatest benefit, look for yogurt brands that are marked "live active cultures." Some yogurt tends to lose its potency over time, so look for a "potency guarantee" for the product's entire shelf life. The type of yogurt you select should be based on whether you are eating it regularly to maintain a healthy digestive system or to restore balance after an illness or antibiotic treatment. For people who cannot tolerate dairy products, soy or rice-based probiotic yogurt such as WholeSoy Yogurt and Ricera may be an option.
Cautions and Considerations
Probiotic yogurt has a large quantity of bacteria. The additional microorganisms can be very beneficial when "good" bacteria is needed to rebalance your intestinal system, but the change can be dramatic. All probiotics can cause an increase in intestinal gas. Patients who have HIV/AIDS or a disease that slows the immune system should avoid using probiotic products until further scientific studies can be done. Your physician or nutritionist will know which bacteria type or quantity is best for your needs.
References
- "Practical Applications of Probiotics in Health and Disease"; American College of Nutrition, 49th Annual Meeting; 2008
- "Pediatrics"; Lactobacillus Therapy for Acute Infectious Diarrhea in Children: A Meta-analysis; Cornelius Van Niels, et al; April 2002
- "Postgraduate Medical Journal"; Probiotics and Human Health; H.S. Gill and F. Guarner; September 2004
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