Foods that advertise they are good for digestion and have health benefits have become increasingly popular. Yogurt, cheese and even granola bars now sport labels that include "live cultures" or other terms that refer to added ingredient of probiotics -- healthy bacteria that live in the digestive tract and can benefit certain health issues such as digestion. Check with your doctor before taking supplements for digestion.
Diarrhea
The World Health Organization, or WHO, released a report in 2006 detailing the health benefits of probiotics. The report specifies that infectious diarrhea is a worldwide problem and detailed studies showing that probiotics provide relief and even help prevent diarrhea in some cases. It is important to note that the studies referenced in the WHO report all relate to probiotics given in supplemental form, such as capsules or powder, and not just from food containing probiotics.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Multiple studies demonstrating the effectiveness of probiotics on irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, are highlighted in an October 2008 Science News Daily article. Certain strains of probiotic supplement are thought to be more effective in treating specific digestive problems. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that the strains Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium may help relieve symptoms of IBS.
Constipation
Constipation and dry stools are complications of many digestive problems, including an imbalance of the good and bad bacteria in the digestive tract. Taking probiotics can help restore the balance of bacteria and help alleviate constipation, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Gas and Bloating
Intestinal gas is painful and embarrassing. Some people use probiotics to offset digestive symptoms such as gas and bloating, according to the National Institute of Health's National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
References
- University of Maryland: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Probiotics in Food Health and Nutritional Properties and Guidelines for Evaluation
- Wiley: Probiotics and inflammatory bowel disease: Is there a scientific rationale?
- Science New Daily: How Effective Are Probiotics In Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Cleveland Clinic: Probiotics
- National Center for Complementery and Alternative Medicine: Probiotics
Member Comments