Probiotics

The live bacteria and yeast that are good for our digestive system are called probiotics. They keep our body healthy by replacing the “good” bacteria in our body which we may have lost due to some illness or through consumption of antibiotics. This way, probiotics balance the “good” and the “bad” bacteria in our body.

There are two main groups of beneficial bacteria which are

1. Lactobacillus – It is most commonly found in yoghurt and some fermented foods. It benefits those who are lactose intolerant and also those with an upset stomach.
2. Bifidobacterium – Found in some dairy products, this bacteria eases the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

The yeast Saccharomyces boulardii, found in probiotics helps in regulating the bowel movements.

Probiotics affect the nerves that control gut movement. Therefore, they are good for treating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), infectious diarrhoea  (caused by viruses, bacteria or parasites) and antibiotic-related diarrhoea.

They are also beneficial when skin problems like eczema occur. Urinary and vaginal health is also taken care of with probiotics. They prevent allergies and colds whereas maintaining oral health.

Probiotics and its supplements are especially useful after a course of antibiotics, the effectiveness of which is increased as a result. The complex interactions between gut and brain are influenced by probiotics and they may be able to prevent mood disorder, autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit hypersensitivity disorder, multiple sclerosis, and obesity. It has been found that if the digestive system functions well, then the potency of many of these ailments goes down. Probiotics give a boost to immunity and help in decreasing the inflammation. The reason for many diseases is chronic inflammation and probiotics is helpful in making the quality of life better by maintaining the natural balance of organisms in the intestines. Probiotics are recommended to be used to treat problems in the stomach and intestines. But only certain strains of bacteria or yeast are beneficial in the digestive system. Yoghurt and yeast are the best-known probiotics which are also available as dietary supplements

Probiotics can prevent diarrhoea, gas or cramping caused by antibiotics by replacing the beneficial bacteria lost during an illness. They also prevent infections in the digestive tract and urinary tract.

Probiotics are considered to be safe though more study is needed in this field to confirm it. However, most probiotics are similar to the bacteria already there in the digestive system. Also, fermented foods and cultured milk products have been consumed for a long time without any ill effects being noticed. The case with probiotic supplements is different in the sense that they should be taken only after discussing the specific bacteria with your doctor. Probiotics have been found to be especially beneficial in treatment and prevention of gastrointestinal diseases. They also prevent a decrease in antibiotic resistance which may happen due to overuse of prescription antibiotics.

written by Avni Kaul – Nutritionist and Wellness Coach