Sunday, March 8, 2009

What Are Probiotics And Why Are They Good For You?

By Ricardo Reeves

Probiotics are type of supplements that are given to humans or animals as they contain bacteria and yeast that help the nutritional system. These supplements assist the good bacteria in our bodies regenerate, and a reduction in these bacteria may be one of the causes our stomach to become upset. Probiotics therefore strengthen our resistance levels and help us battle illnesses.

The most familiar type of Probiotic is Lactic Acid Bacteria, and it is usually used in most food we eat for the reason that it converts carbohydrates into lactic acid. In addition this is used to give yoghurt and other fermented diary items their sour taste, and controls the PH level in these foods to lessen the possibility of bad bacteria growing in them.

Probiotics, as mentioned before, can help us combat many illnesses. This is the reason for their use in many packaged foods. One benefit of these is that they allow lactose intolerant people consume more lactose, as Probiotics convert lactose into lactic acid. Some tests have also revealed that Probiotics bond with the carcinogenic substances contained in meat, and as a result potentially prevent cancer of the colon. However, although this has been tested on rodents, human trials have been inconclusive so far.

Probiotics can also be used to lower cholesterol, as it breaks down bile in the human gut, which prevents it from being reabsorbed and entering the blood in the form of cholesterol. Probiotics have also been shown to reduce blood pressure in trials. While the change in blood pressure is minimal, this is a sign that the supplements may potentially be of use to people suffering from high blood pressure.

Probiotics will also help build up the immune system. They do this by competing with other bacteria for growth and wiping them out in the process. Supplements given to trial patients have shown a decrease in respiratory tract infections as well as dental problems. They have also been used to treat and prevent travel-related diarrhoea in adults as well as children. Patients with diarrhoea caused by the intake of antibiotics have also been successfully treated by Probiotics. They also help reduce the amount of harmful bacteria in the intestine during times of stress.

Foods and supplements with Probiotics have also been known to control inflammation and hypersensitivity. Clinical tests have shown that these can also be used to cure inflammatory bowel disease. Probiotics also aid in reducing mal-absorption of minerals, mostly in diets that have a high phytate level.

Ultimately, a Probiotic supplement known as Align has been found to treat irritable bowel syndrome in women. This is also now available under several names in the market, and there is one supplement (VSL3) that has been used to successfully treat ulcerative colitis.

Probiotics, similar to other supplements, are very helpful for you to stay healthy, so you should ask your doctors advice about them and find out if they are helpful for any of your present problems. If you are on the move, you should ask your doctor about using some with you to protect you against diarrhoea. - 15437

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