Scientists and researchers posit that a healthy female body contains more than 750 trillion different bacteria -- nearly 5 lbs. of a woman's body weight! Most of these bacteria hang out in the GI tract, neutralizing hormones and aiding digestion of foods. Often, imbalances of these bacteria can cause digestive, hormonal and intestinal problems. Probiotics are an easy way of solving imbalances in the GI tract and supplementing bacteria necessary for healthy bodily function.
Deciding to Take Probiotics
There are many reasons to take probiotics, and you should always consult your physician before starting on any new supplement, vitamin, or medication. A few reasons why women begin probiotics are reoccuring yeast infections, urinary tract infections, fatigue, constipation, GI sensitivity and cramps, gluten sensitivity or heavy symptoms associated with PMS.
Choosing the Right Probiotic: Maintenance
Some probiotics come in capsule form and are swallowed just like vitamins. However, other probiotics come in liquid or powder form and need refrigeration or mixing with other liquids or foods. Choosing a probiotic involves assessing your particular bodily concern as well as your desired maintenance level. Many women choose capsules because they are easy to transport and consume, and they do not require any refrigeration or preparation.
The Right Amount of Bacteria
According to Marcelle Pick, OB/GYN, "The best general purpose probiotic supplements combine several beneficial bacteria with a competitive yeast. Look for supplements that contain Saccharomyces, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and bifidobacteria in the billions." She continues, "Certain brands feature every probiotic organism ever described, or tout zillions of CFUs (colony-forming units) per dose. But more is not always better when it comes to probiotics --- the concern is that too many active organisms could produce the very symptoms we seek to alleviate."
It is best to understand exactly what condition you need supplements to alleviate and then choose the right strength of probiotic to avoid overdosing on bacteria and exacerbating the problem. According to Dr. Pick, you should begin to notice an improvement in symptoms in roughly two weeks. Additionally, the best probiotics include a prebiotic, a substance taken with the probiotic to help the flora survive in your GI tract. Beginning with foods that contain bacteria and tracking changes is a good place to start. Then, if supplements are necessary, a doctor can assess which probiotics are safest and best for your particular body and condition.
Warnings
Some probiotics contain powerful levels of flora that will significantly shift the acidic balance of your stomach and intestines. Make sure to consult a physician, no matter the level of research you've conducted, to ensure that a probiotic will not interact negatively with other medications you may be taking. Also, according to Katherine Zeratsky at the Mayo Clinic, you may not necessarily need to take supplements to balance the bacteria of the GI tract. Many foods such as yogurt, miso, and soy drinks contain live cultures and bacteria that can help solve intestinal and digestive problems.
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