Whether we realize it or not, probiotics are an important part of our diet. According to the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) and World Health Organization (WHO), probiotics are defined as "live microorganisms, which when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host."
Functions of Probiotics
The gastrointestinal tract consists of many microorganisms, some beneficial and some potentially harmful. Bacteria that are normally in our gastrointestinal tract can be disrupted by factors such as stress, antibiotic use, illness, unbalanced diet and aging. Routine consumption of probiotics helps regulate the balance of beneficial bacteria in the intestines.
Prebiotics
Probiotics cannot do their job without the help of prebiotics. Prebiotics are non-digestible food ingredients taken before or with probiotics to stimulate the growth and activity of bacteria in the colon. Inulin and fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) are the most widely used forms of prebiotics in food. Some examples of foods that have been fortified with these two prebiotics are cereals, yogurts, pastas and breads.
Probiotics and Children
Starting as a newborn our diet consists of probiotics, as they are found in human breast milk. The third largest component of breast milk is oligosaccharides. A oligosaccharides is a prebiotic that aids the beneficial bacterias, Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, to stimulate the immune system. Some of the newer formulas now contain both prebiotics and probiotics. The usage of probiotics has been shown to be beneficial for colic and atopic dermatitis in newborns.
As a child gets older, probiotics are useful in the treatment of diarrhea. Diarrhea is a response to the disruption of the normal balance of the intestinal flora. Since the immune system of a child is not as strong as the one of an adult, disruptions in the gut are more common. The intake of probiotics can decrease the frequency and duration.
Probiotic usage in the diet
Probiotics can aid with regularity, constipation, lactose intolerance, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, bacterial vaginosis, immune support and general health.
Science has identified certain genera and species that are deemed most beneficial on having a positive effect on the intestine, including certain strains of Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus plantarum and Bifidobacterium.
Probiotics in our diet
Probiotics are available in the form of foods and dietary supplements. Common food sources are yogurt, kefir, koumiss, miso, tempeh, fruit juices, soy beverages, and fermented milk. Dietary supplements include probiotic capsules, tablets and powders.
As part of an overall healthy diet, it is recommended to choose probiotic foods over supplements since foods tend to have additional nutritional benefits.
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