Probiotics are a type of live bacteria that are helpful in the human intestines. They help balance and fight any unhealthy bacteria you may have. Probiotics are found in a variety of foods that are available in most grocery stores. Probiotic supplements are also available at most health food stores.
Types of Probiotics
Probiotics can be categorized into two main groups: Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium. Each group can be subdivided into different species, like Lactobacillus acidophilus, which is the most common "friendly" bacteria found in yogurt, and Bifidobacterium bifidus. Different strains exist within each species, such as Saccharomyces boulardii, which are yeasts and not bacteria, but still considered probiotics.
Sources of Probiotics
Probiotics are found in foods, such as yogurt, unfermented and fermented milk or kefir, miso and tempeh, which are derived from fermented soybeans, along with certain juices and soy drinks. Some probiotic foods contain naturally-occurring "good" bacteria, while some foods have the good bacteria added during processing. Probiotics are also available as dietary supplements, some of which contain about eight different strains of good bacteria. Most probiotic supplements are stored in a refrigerated section of the health care products because refrigeration is necessary to preserve the effectiveness of the live bacteria. The supplements may come in the form of tablets, capsules, powders and other forms.
Probiotic vs Prebiotic
Probiotic are not the same as prebiotics. Probiotics are digestible, whereas prebiotics are nondigestible food components that catalyze existing microorganisms in your colon. A synbiotic is created when probiotics are combined with prebiotics.
Probiotic versus Antibiotic
Probiotics are especially important to consume if you are taking antibiotics. Antibiotics kill both harmful and healthful bacteria, so if you don't have enough "friendly" or "good" bacteria, you may have an overgrowth of yeast, bad bacteria or other intestinal health issues. When you are prescribed antibiotics, you should eat foods containing probiotics or take probiotic supplements.
Health Benefits of Probiotics
According to the Mayo Clinic, studies show that probiotics can treat conditions like antiobiotic-induced diarrhea or diarrhea caused by certain infections or parasites. The lactobacillus and Saccharomyces boulardii are the most effective probiotics in treating diarrhea. Although more research is needed, scientists suggest that probiotics may prevent or treat other health issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome or IBS, intestinal infection from Clostridium difficile, pouchitis, atopic dermatitis or eczema in children and urinary tract infections. Probiotics may also may lessen the risk of recurrent bladder.
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