The health benefits of Probiotics.
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, digestive system and they help build a stronger immune system. They support your body's ability to absorb nutrients and fight infection. There are many types of bacteria which are classified as probiotic, all with differing benefits, most come from two genus groups; Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.
Lactobacillus is the most common type, and is often found in small quantities in live yogurt and fermented foods. Different strains of the two genus groups offer different benefits, which we will look at more closely.
Probiotic foods are thought to be safe for most people. Although in some cases mild side effects have been noted, such as upset stomach, diarrhoea, flatulence and bloating.
If you don't have enough healthy bacteria in your digestive tract the symptoms can include digestive disorders, candida, autoimmune disease, skin problems, frequent colds,and bloating after eating.
Things that cause us to have a deficiency in healthy bacteria include prescription antibiotics, GMO foods, sugar, stress, processed food, chemicals and medications.
Benefits to maximising healthy bacteria include an improved immune system, improved absorption of nutrients, improved digestive function, a reduction in inflammatory bowel symptoms, improved skin and a reduction in eczema symptoms.
When choosing a probiotic choose one with multiple strains and a minimum of 5 billion CFU (colony forming units), If you wish to treat certain ailments, then choose a product that includes some of the strains most beneficial to you.
IBS and gastro-intestinal distress
Bifidobacterium infantis
Lactobacillus plantarum
Bifidobacterium bifidum
Lactobacillus reuteri
Lactobacillus acidophilus
Bifidobacterium longum
Bacillus coagulans
Lactose Intolerant
Lactobacillus bulgaricus
Lactobacillus acidophilus
Streptococcus thermophilus
Travelling abroad
Saccharomyces boulardii
Bifidobacterium bifidum
Antibiotic Use
Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Saccharomyces boulardii
Vaginal infection
Lactobacillus acidophilus
Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Lactobacillus reuteri
Lactobacillus gasseri
Bacillus coagulans
Eczema
lactobacillus rhamnosus
Lactobacillus fermentum
Bad breath, gingtivitis or periodonitis
Lactobacillus reuteri
Weissella cibaria
Lactobacillus salvarius
Streptococcus salvarius
Have a cold
Bifidobacterium animalis
lactobacillus acidophilus
Liver Health
Lactobacillus paracasei
Bifidobacterium longum
Immune Health
Lactobacillus Salvarius
Lactobacillus Reuteri
Lactobacillus plantarum
Lactobacillus acidophilus
Streptococcus salvarius
Bifidobacterium longum