Probiotics, pro=for and bios= life, are microorganisms that aid digestion and promote general well-being within the body. These small, healthy bacteria are commonly found in the intestine but can also be eaten in foods like yogurt or taken in pill form. There are several different types of probiotics available through foods and over the counter remedies.
The Basics
The health benefits of probiotics are numerous. These small bacteria are usually either Lactobacillius or Bifidobacterium types, with several different subtypes existing between these two main types of probiotics. For example, you will often find Lactobacillius acidophilus in foods such as yogurt. Probiotics have been shown to be useful for the following health issues:
-The health benefits of probiotics are evident when used to treat gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea. The helpful bacteria work with reestablish a balance in the gut (after antibiotics therapy, helpful in lactose intolerance).
-To reduce the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
-To treat and prevent yeast overgrowth in the body.
-To reduce the symptoms of eczema in sensitive children.
The health benefits of probiotics have some scientific evidence in their favor. The treatments that use probiotics typically involve ingesting a food rich in probiotics, although some people prefer the tablet type of probiotics, instead.
Using Probiotics
When considering the health benefits of probiotics one of the most important things to do is notice which type of probiotics you are consuming. Acidophilius is one of the strains of probiotics that offers many health benefits, and is also a probiotic that is easy to find and consume since it is found in most yogurt.
To see if the yogurt you are eating has probiotics read the label for indications that the product contains live bacteria or cultures. The probiotics found in most yogurt have been proven to reduce the symptoms of diarrhea by up to sixty percent.
The health benefits of probiotics can also be easily studied in women experiencing an overgrowth of yeast in the body, especially in the vagina. The consumption of probiotics such as acidophilius have proven to significantly reduce the symptoms of a yeast infection in women when consumed regularly. Many other conditions can also be improved through the use of probiotics, including Chrohn’s disease and Colitis ulcerosa.
Tips How to Use Probiotics
When you want to experience the health benefits of probiotics for yourself you first need to determine which method of consumption you prefer. Eating fresh, healthy food is often the best way to ensure a steady supply of the right kind of probiotics but pill form probiotics are simple and convenient to use, especially if you aren’t able to consume foods with the right strains of bacteria.
Speaking with a professional health care provider who specializes in alternative medicines, or a doctor with a good knowledge of probiotics, can help you find the best strains of probiotics to use for your condition. Since some strains will work better for specific conditions you will want to spend some time researching the available options and working with a health care professional to ensure the bacteria work for you.