Defined as live yeasts and bacteria, probiotics are considered to be good microorganisms that
reside in the digestive tract.
The probiotics that are featured in dietary supplements
and foods are similar to the probiotics that naturally
occur in the stomach.
While the body does not necessarily require probiotic supplementation, probiotics that are contained in supplements form can assist digestive health by...
Reducing the bad bacteria in the stomach that can lead to inflammation or infection
Replace good bacteria that may have been removed through antibiotic use
Balancing out the bacterial balance to ensure that the body is functioning properly.
The probiotics that naturally occur in the stomach include a yeast called Saccharomyces boulardii and bacteria that include the Bifobacterium and Lactobacillus microorganism families. Yogurt contains the probiotic known as Lactobacillus acidophilus.
When the Probiotic Was First Discovered
Interest in the probiotic, acidophilus started as far back as the late 19th century.
At that time, the bacterium was credited for adding to the long life of the people
living in the Balkans who regularly ingested fermented milk.
Later, it was discovered that the milk was rich in L. acidophilus. Since that discovery,
the probiotic has been a topic of interest with respect to digestive health.
Foods That Contain Probiotics
Foods that contain probiotics include soy drinks, buttermilk, fermented and unfermented milk, miso, tempeh, kefir, soft cheeses, sauerkraut, and pickles. As already indicated, the most well known food containing probiotics is yogurt. Although kefir is coming in to the spot light.
You Can Buy Probiotics
You can also obtain probiotics through supplementation in the form of capsules, powders,
tablets and liquid extracts
An Overview Of The Probiotic Acidophilus
Acidophilus, also known as lactic acid bacteria or scientifically named L. acidophilus, is a
bacterium that is regularly found in normal digestive tract functioning.
It is produced primarily in the small intestine.
The germ is included in a variety of dairy products, especially yogurt. Acidophilus and related bacteria are considered probiotic as they maintain the balance of bacteria in the intestine and therefore are promoted for maintaining the health of the bowels.
The Health Advantages Of Acidophilus Use
Acidophilus is recommended for treating or preventing vaginal infections, treating diarrhea and lowering cholesterol. The bacterium also aids in lactose digestion in people who are lactose-sensitive. It prevents the growth of yeast and germs that can cause cancer.
A Reduction In Cholesterol
Some supporters of acidophilus believe use of the bacterium may reduce the risk of cancer, particularly cancer of the colon. The bacterium is known to neutralize carcinogens in the diet, thereby killing tumor cells.
Others claim that the probiotic boosts immune system health by manufacturing vitamin K
and the B vitamins. The bacterium also reduces bad cholesterol, which some proponents
state is needed for tumor cells to grow.