Flora Source Multi-Probiotic is a supplement that contains 16 beneficial strains of micro-organisms that are meant to repopulate and maintain the healthy flora of the intestines. Probiotics contain live bacteria and other organisms that promote digestive and immune health, and treat conditions such as diarrhea, constipation, bloating and flatulence. Flora Source Multi-Probiotic comes in bottles of 60 vegetarian capsules that contain 16 billion live cells per capsule, as cited by a primary vendor.
Short Chain Fructo-Oligosaccharide
Short chain FOS is a non-gas forming source of fiber that is within Flora Source Multi-Probiotic to aid in digestion and stool elimination. Once in the intestines, fiber attracts water and "bulks up," which helps clean the intestines, promotes movement and absorption and leads to regular bowel movements. Regular bowel movements are essential to release toxins and harmful intestinal bacteria.
Lactobacillus Strains
Flora Source Multi-Probiotic contains nine different strains of Lactobacillus, which are rod shaped bacteria that are considered beneficial within the human digestive system. These strains include acidophilus, brevis, plantarum, casei, gasseri, rhamnosus, salivarius, bulgaricus and paracasei.
Lactobacillus acidophilus is the best known of this group and is commonly used to restore balance within the digestive system. According to "Human Biochemistry and Disease," the flora and fauna of the digestive system can be disrupted due to antibiotic use, chemotherapy, disease, bacterial and fugal infections, and certain overly acidic foods and beverages. When the populations of harmful bacteria, such as E. coli, become too large, symptoms of bloating, discomfort diarrhea and nausea often occur.
Lactococcus Lactis
Also known as Lactic Acid Bacterium, Lactococcus lactis is a spherical shaped species which can ferment milk sugar to lactic acid. According to "Todar's Online Textbook of Bacteriology," Lactococcus lactis is in many grasses, which end up in cow's milk and may be a natural cause of souring. Lactococcus lactis is also essential for manufacturing many varieties of cheese and other fermented milk products.
Bifidobacterium Strains
Flora Source Multi-Probiotic contains five different strains of Bifidobacterium, which are non-motile, often branched anaerobic bacteria inhabiting the gastrointestinal tract and vagina. These strains include bifidum, breve, infantis, longum and lactis. Bifidobacteria are one of the major genera that make up the flora of the intestines, especially the colon. Bifidobacteria aid in digestion and are associated with a lower incidence of allergies.
Streptococcus Thermophilus
Streptococci bacteria as usually associated with sore throats and other disease conditions, but Streptococcus thermophilus is known for its ability to ferment milk sugar, or lactose, to lactic acid. Streptococcus thermophilus is not normally considered a probiotic because it does not survive contact with stomach acids.
Non-Active Ingredients
Other, non-active ingredients in Flora Source Multi-Probiotic are silica, magnesium stearate and cellulose.
References
- Vendor for Flora Source Multi-Probiotic
- "Human Biochemistry and Disease;" Gerald Litwack; 2008
- "Todar's Online Textbook of Bacteriology:" Lactococcus lactis
