Probiotics
are beneficial live microorganisms that may be of great benefit in aiding patients
with digestive health issues including diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome
(IBS). They work to enhance the population of healthy micro-flora found in the
human gut and can be found in many food sources as well as in supplement form.
In
addition to helping with digestive issues, there are some studies that have shown
improvement in conditions such as allergies and allergic skin conditions such
as eczema, as well as tooth decay, liver disease, the common cold, urinary
tract issues, vaginal health and even colic in infants. Additionally they have
been shown to help in the absorption of nutrients and aiding in the reestablishment
of healthy bacterial balance within the digestive tract.
While
probiotics are available in supplement form, there are many natural dietary
sources as well. Some of the more common include:
·
Yogurt
·
Sauerkraut
·
Pickles
·
Miso
·
Kefir
·
Kombucha
·
Kimchi
·
Lassi
·
Buttermilk
Probiotics
help the gut to replace good bacteria that is lost due to health issues.
Additionally, they can help the body to create a balance between good and bad
bacteria to keep the body running smoothly.
There are several types of probiotics, each with different benefits. The
most well known include Lactobacillus
and Bifidobacterium.
Lactobacillus is one of the most common forms of probiotics and is
typically found in fermented foods such as kimchi and sauerkraut. This type of
bacteria seems to have some benefits for individuals who have trouble digesting
lactose. Bifidobacterium is found in dairy foods such as buttermilk and Kefir and appears to
have a positive impact on those suffering from IBS.
It is
important to remember that probiotics are not regulated in the same way as
medications; instead they are regulated like other food based products. This
means that probiotic supplement producers are not required to pass the same
safety standards that are expected of other medications. Therefore, it is
crucial to utilize supplements from only the highest quality sources or seek
natural food based alternatives. Additionally, some probiotics might be harmful
for individuals with compromised immune systems.
If you are
considering adding a probiotic to your dietary regime, consult the
gastroenterology specialists at Dr. Justin McCarthy, MD.
