The World Health organization defines a probiotic as any living microorganism that has a health benefit when ingested. These supplements are associated with many health benefits as they help keep the correct balance of bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract of the human body. Organic probiotics are often recommended by health practitioners as they contain no extra ingredients like preservatives or fillers.
The gut is home to many bacterial species and each person has a varying mix of bacteria crucial to their well being. When food passes through the gastrointestinal tract these bacteria facilitate digestion and up to 10 percent of the daily energy needs of the individual come from the byproducts of good bacteria. Various factors like diet, medication, stress and illness can destroy the good bacteria.
The digestive tract is lined with sites to which bacteria adhere. The idea behind using supplements is that beneficial bacteria are introduced which adhere to these sites. When the good bacteria dominate, they present a barrier against harmful bacteria.
A probiotic comes in many forms such as tablets, powders, capsules and even in foods like yoghurt. Whatever the form, the importance is that it contains enough organisms to survive and grow in the intestines. The amount of live cells per dose varies considerably and this can also determine effectiveness.
A general purpose variety is available for those with no specific problems but simply wish to maintain their health and boost their immune systems. Others are designed to promote specific functions, such as those that help with constipation. Selection has to be made with the specific purpose in mind.
The clearest benefit, backed up by scientific study, comes in the field of gastrointestinal conditions like inflammatory bowel conditions and diarrhea associated with use of antibiotics. When antibiotics are used, the useful as well as the bad bacteria is destroyed and need to be replaced. However, interesting research is being done on their effect on much more than just digestive issues. One of the main benefits appears to be in stimulating the immune system.
Studies are being done to see how successful they are at treating conditions like ulcerative colitis and inflammatory bowel syndrome. There is even evidence emerging that these supplements may help those suffering from food allergies by restoring the balance of gut flora. Another interesting study conducted on those suffering from obesity, revealed that they have different gut flora from individuals of normal weight.
As there are an abundance of suppliers of these products, it can be difficult to choose the right product. Reputable online suppliers often give information about the research done in developing the product and what it contains. The dosage, strain and species are all important factors to consider.
Many health problems today, including allergies and fatigue, are beginning to be associated with an imbalance of bacteria in the body. Organic probiotics provide the most safe, natural and common sense way to keep the correct balance. Some patience needs to be exercised when using these supplements as they do not create overnight miracle cures. They need to be used for some time before the correct balance in the gut is restored.
The gut is home to many bacterial species and each person has a varying mix of bacteria crucial to their well being. When food passes through the gastrointestinal tract these bacteria facilitate digestion and up to 10 percent of the daily energy needs of the individual come from the byproducts of good bacteria. Various factors like diet, medication, stress and illness can destroy the good bacteria.
The digestive tract is lined with sites to which bacteria adhere. The idea behind using supplements is that beneficial bacteria are introduced which adhere to these sites. When the good bacteria dominate, they present a barrier against harmful bacteria.
A probiotic comes in many forms such as tablets, powders, capsules and even in foods like yoghurt. Whatever the form, the importance is that it contains enough organisms to survive and grow in the intestines. The amount of live cells per dose varies considerably and this can also determine effectiveness.
A general purpose variety is available for those with no specific problems but simply wish to maintain their health and boost their immune systems. Others are designed to promote specific functions, such as those that help with constipation. Selection has to be made with the specific purpose in mind.
The clearest benefit, backed up by scientific study, comes in the field of gastrointestinal conditions like inflammatory bowel conditions and diarrhea associated with use of antibiotics. When antibiotics are used, the useful as well as the bad bacteria is destroyed and need to be replaced. However, interesting research is being done on their effect on much more than just digestive issues. One of the main benefits appears to be in stimulating the immune system.
Studies are being done to see how successful they are at treating conditions like ulcerative colitis and inflammatory bowel syndrome. There is even evidence emerging that these supplements may help those suffering from food allergies by restoring the balance of gut flora. Another interesting study conducted on those suffering from obesity, revealed that they have different gut flora from individuals of normal weight.
As there are an abundance of suppliers of these products, it can be difficult to choose the right product. Reputable online suppliers often give information about the research done in developing the product and what it contains. The dosage, strain and species are all important factors to consider.
Many health problems today, including allergies and fatigue, are beginning to be associated with an imbalance of bacteria in the body. Organic probiotics provide the most safe, natural and common sense way to keep the correct balance. Some patience needs to be exercised when using these supplements as they do not create overnight miracle cures. They need to be used for some time before the correct balance in the gut is restored.
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