When people hear the word bacteria, they often think of harmful bacteria that lead to infections and health complications. There are also good bacteria present in the human body and helps maintain balance. Probiotics mimic the good bacteria in the body and can be used to help introduce more good bacteria in order to fight infections and enhance immunity to disease.
Probiotics
As defined by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United States, probiotics are "live microorganisms administered in adequate amounts which confer a beneficial health effect on the host." Most are small bacterial organisms that are categorized by genus, species and strain. The genera of probiotics include Lactobacillus, Enterococcus, Bacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Saccharomyces. To be considered a probiotic, the bacteria must be living when consumed and provide some health benefit when taken.
How They Work
Bacteria or microbes live all over the human body, with more than 1,000 different species present, as discussed by U.S. Probiotics. Microbes can be found in the intestinal tract, skin, mouth, and vaginal tract, and these bacteria are important to maintaining health and wellness when the number of helpful bacteria outnumbers the harmful bacteria. In the intestinal tract, most bacteria resides in the lower small intestine and the large intestine. Their presence helps aid in digestion and plays a role in supporting the immune system.
Correct Dose of Probiotics
Drugs.com recommends that individuals take oral probiotic supplements daily; however, they note that some studies do suggest taking a dose only twice a week. Harvard's Women's Health Watch suggests that a single dose should have somewhere from 1 billion to 10 billion colony-forming units, which is the equivalent of one or two capsules, depending on the preparation. As each type of probiotic varies somewhat, following directions on the label is recommended. In addition, before using probiotics, consulting with a physician can provide information on the correct strain and dosing that may benefit a particular health condition.
Benefits of Probiotics
Research has been conducted to determine the benefits of using probiotics to treat various health conditions; however, different strains, species and genera of probiotics may have very different effects on different conditions. According to U.S. Probiotics, research studies have produced evidence that probiotics are beneficial in treating asthma, excema, and allergy symptoms, may reduce the risk of cancer, and help manage diarrhea caused be infection or antibiotic use. They may also reduce cholesterol and mild hyertension, may help manage symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease, help boost the immune system, and help those who are lactose intolerant.
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