The vitamins that help bacteria grow are actually substances called probiotics and prebiotics. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria while prebiotics are substances that encourage bacterial growth. According to the "Pakistan Journal of Nutrition," there are more than 400 strains of probiotic bacteria, and in both food and supplement form. Prebiotics are found primarily in foods and should be ingested as part of a healthy diet. While there are several strains of probiotics, two strains are the most common, reports the "Pakistan Journal of Nutrition."
Probiotic - Bifidobacterium Family
The Bifidobacterium family includes the B. bifidum, B. breve and B. infantis strains as well as B. lactis. According to the "Pakistan Journal of Nutrition," this family of bacteria helps protect the intestinal tract and prevent the growth of bad bacteria, such as E. coli and salmonella. This family of probiotics also helps boost the immune system and reduce inflammation. The B. lactis strain is often found in yogurt, and is also available in probiotic supplements along with other strains in the Bifidobacterium family.
Probiotic - Lactobacillus Family
The Lactobacillus family includes the L.bulgarius, L. casei and L. rhamnosus strains. These strains are found in milk and yogurt and may help the body manufacture antioxidants, according to Biology Online. These probiotics also help maintain the digestive tract and protect against bad bacteria. L. bulgarius also makes milk products more digestible and may be used in supplements for the lactose intolerant. L. casei is most prevalent in the intestinal system and may help patients with Crohn's disease, reports the "Pakistan Journal of Nutrition." In addition to milk and yogurt, these strains are also available in probiotic supplements.
Prebiotics -- Fiber-rich Foods
Prebiotics are the nondigestible starches, such as inulin and lactulose, found in fiber-rich plants. These plant starches are made up of chains of sugars, or saccharides. Food sources of prebiotics include yams, onions and garlic as well as leeks, bananas and wheat-based foods. The nondigestible fiber in these foods sits in the intestines, providing sugars on which the beneficial bacteria feed. As the bacteria feed, they multiply and produce an acidic substance that contribute to the health of the intestinal cells. According to Jackson Siegelbaum Gasgtroenterology, prebiotics also reduce the number of potentially dangerous intestinal bacteria, maintain the immune system and increase the absorption of magnesium and calcium.
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