Probiotics
Probiotics are foods and supplements containing the beneficial bacterial cultures to help the body’s naturally occurring intestinal flora re-establish themselves.
Hundreds of bacterial strains inhabit the human colon. Some are more important (and much more beneficial) than others. The three most important varieties are Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, and Streptococcus faecium.
The strains currently living in one’s colon are largely determined by one’s diet. Sugar and an excess of simple starches (like white bread) encourage the spread of unhealthy intestinal microorganisms. Reducing these foods and introducing probiotic foods helps maintain a healthy balance.
Human studies show that regular use of probiotic foods or supplements can aid the digestion of foods (particularly milk and dairy products) and improve the overall state of the colon, treating diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, and candidiasis. Additionally, probiotics (and prebiotics) enhance mineral absorption, reduce cholesterol (by breaking down bile in the colon, inhibiting its re-absorption into the blood), and strengthen the immune system.
The best known example of a probiotic food is yogurt. Other fermented foods containing similar bacteria include: pickled vegetables, tempeh, miso, kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut, and soy sauce. Include these foods in your diet regularly.
Lactic acid bacteria are the most common types of probiotics available in supplement form. The most widely used strains are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. They can convert sugars (including lactose, or milk sugar) into lactic acid. The fermentation gives yogurt its sour taste and provides the health benefits probiotics are known for. Probiotic supplements are recommended after a course of antibiotics and are part of the treatment for candidiasis.
Hundreds of bacterial strains inhabit the human colon. Some are more important (and much more beneficial) than others. The three most important varieties are Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, and Streptococcus faecium.
The strains currently living in one’s colon are largely determined by one’s diet. Sugar and an excess of simple starches (like white bread) encourage the spread of unhealthy intestinal microorganisms. Reducing these foods and introducing probiotic foods helps maintain a healthy balance.
Human studies show that regular use of probiotic foods or supplements can aid the digestion of foods (particularly milk and dairy products) and improve the overall state of the colon, treating diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, and candidiasis. Additionally, probiotics (and prebiotics) enhance mineral absorption, reduce cholesterol (by breaking down bile in the colon, inhibiting its re-absorption into the blood), and strengthen the immune system.
The best known example of a probiotic food is yogurt. Other fermented foods containing similar bacteria include: pickled vegetables, tempeh, miso, kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut, and soy sauce. Include these foods in your diet regularly.
Lactic acid bacteria are the most common types of probiotics available in supplement form. The most widely used strains are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. They can convert sugars (including lactose, or milk sugar) into lactic acid. The fermentation gives yogurt its sour taste and provides the health benefits probiotics are known for. Probiotic supplements are recommended after a course of antibiotics and are part of the treatment for candidiasis.
