Probiotics are types of beneficial bacteria and yeasts that naturally reside in your body. Probiotics are also available in the form of supplements, and they're also added to special yogurts and other food products to promote healthy digestion. There are many different specific types of probiotics, but a certain few are most recommended by healthcare professionals. Before you begin taking probiotics, consult your doctor to discuss the possible risks and benefits.
Types
The most common recommended probiotics are species belonging to the Bifidocaterium, Lactobacillus and Saccharomyces groups, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Lactobacillus acidophilus is one of the most well-known beneficial bacteria used as a probiotic supplement. Additionally, there are the species Lactobacillus casei, L. bulgaricus, L. sakei, L. plantarum, L. gasseri, L. Reuteri, Lactobacillus GG and Lactobacillus LB, notes the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Bifidobacterium bifidus, B. longum, Saccharomyces boulardii, S. salivarius and S. thermophilus are also recommended species of probiotics.
Function
Probiotics support the healthy balance of microflora in your gastrointestinal system, suppressing the growth of harmful bacteria and supporting healthy digestion, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Probiotic bacteria and yeasts also appear to improve immune-system function, infection resistance and the acidity in your intestines. These "friendly" bacteria help your intestines to produce lactic acid, acetic acid, hydrogen peroxide and other necessary organic compounds. All types of probiotics don't necessarily have the exact same functions in the body, so the effects can vary between the different species.
Benefits
People take probiotics to support overall health, as well as to prevent or treat certain illnesses. Probiotics are most commonly used to treat different types of diarrhea, mainly viral diarrhea in children and "traveler's diarrhea" caused by antibiotics. Probiotics may also help in reducing the gastrointestinal side effects of cancer therapies, treat irritable bowel syndrome and heal ulcers. Probiotics could have the potential to improve immune function, as well as to treat infections, canker sores, food allergies, eczema, yeast infections, ulcerative colitis, chronic candidiasis and stress. Specific types of probiotics could also help in treating colic, Crohn's disease, vaginitis, tooth decay, hay fever and pancreatitis. Other medicinal uses for probiotics include supporting HIV/AIDS treatment, preventing colds and colon cancer, and treating indigestion, diverticular disease, chronic constipation, insomnia, rheumatoid arthritis and Behcet's Syndrome. No widely-accepted, conclusive scientific evidence supports the use of probiotics in preventing or treating any medical condition, however.
Warning
Aside from causing mild gas, probiotics are generally very safe for most people. But probiotics could pose dangers for people who have a suppressed immune system, possibly causing an infection from the probiotic bacterium or yeast itself. Unfortunately, no comprehensive safety studies have been performed on the recommended probiotics, so the safety of their use isn't confirmed.
Member Comments