Entry # 8  What Are Probiotics?

I would like to pay our attention to Probiotics. They are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for our health, especially our digestive system. We usually think of bacteria as something that causes diseases. But our body is full of bacteria, both good and bad. Probiotics are often called "good" or "helpful" bacteria because they help keep our gut healthy.

Probiotics are naturally found in our bodies. We can also find them in some foods and supplements.

It's only been since about the mid-1990s that people have wanted to know more about probiotics and their health benefits. Doctors often suggest them to help with digestive problems. 

How Do They Work?

Researchers are trying to figure out exactly how probiotics work. Here are some of the ways they may keep us healthy:

• When we lose "good" bacteria in our body (like after we take antibiotics, for example), probiotics can help replace them.
•  They can lower the amount of "bad" bacteria in our system that can cause infections or other problems.
• They can help balance our "good" and "bad" bacteria to keep our bodies working like they should.

Types of Probiotics

Many types of bacteria are classified as probiotics. They all have different benefits, but most come from two groups.

• Lactobacillus. This may be the most common probiotic. It’s the one we’ll find in yogurt and other fermented foods. Different strains can help with diarrhea and may help with people who can’t digest lactose, the sugar in milk.
• Bifidobacterium. We can find it in some dairy products. It may help ease the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

What Do They Do?

Probiotics help move food through our gut. Researchers are still trying to figure out which are best for certain health problems. Some common conditions they can treat are:

•      Irritable bowel syndrome
•      Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
•      Infectious diarrhea (caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites)
•      Antibiotic-related diarrhea

There is also some research to show they ease the symptoms of non-stomach-related problems. For example, some people say they have helped with:

•      Skin conditions, like eczema
•      Preventing allergies and colds
•      Oral health

How to Use Them Safely?

The FDA regulates probiotics like foods, not like medications. Unlike drug companies, makers of probiotic supplements don’t have to show their products are safe or that they work.