Probiotics are microorganisms consumed through supplements or food. In the United States, the popularity of these bacteria have tripled based on data from 1994 to 2003, according to the National Institutes of Health. Reasons vary for using probiotics, but they are mainly used as a product to help gastrointestinal health. There is enough scientific support to indicate the use and benefit of probiotics in food products.
Definition
Probiotics is a general name for a large group of bacteria and yeast, which are referred to as "gut friendly" bacteria due to the fact that most of them are found naturally in the body and can be depleted for various reasons. The Natural Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, NCCAM, states the main types of bacteria come from two groups, Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium. Within each group, there are different species for example, Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidus. A common yeast product is Saccharomyces boulardii.
Uses
Specific strains of probiotics help overcome Clostridium difficile, a bacterium which leads to colitis. Colitis affects certain immunocompromised populations and those on long-term antibiotic therapy. The best strain of probiotic for C. difficile was Saccharomyces boulardii. Poor diet and antibiotic use can lead to diarrhea and female genitourinary infections. Various strains of probiotics were also found to be helpful for these problems as well. Probiotics have benefit for slightly hypertensive populations and those suffering from H. pylori, a bacterium that may lead to stomach ulcers and gastric cancer.
Supplements
In order to pick a quality supplement, it must be labeled with the genus, species and strain. Clear instructions for use and how to store to keep the product both alive and active must also be on the label. As to choosing what genus or species, it is helpful to know the reason why the probiotic is to be taken. A health professional who is up to date on their microbe knowledge will help you pick an appropriate supplement.
Foods
Foods with live cultures are typically yogurt, both fermented and unfermented milk, miso, tempeh and a few select juices. Most of these products contain the bacteria naturally. A few other food products are being fortified or supplemented with probiotics. Regularly eating these foods may help regular bowel and intestinal health.
Precautions
While probiotics are general safe and effective, there are no conclusive studies for the use of probiotics with infants, the elderly and other immunocompromised populations. Not every product on the store shelf has been evaluated for safety by the FDA, so it is important to talk with a health professional before taking it. Also, overdosing and developing an infection requiring antibiotic may be necessary, although reported cases of this are low.
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