Probiotics initiate movement within the gut thereby promoting tremendous health benefits for the digestive system. Among the conditions probiotics treat, include:
(1) Diarrhea induced by parasites, bacteria and viruses.
(2) Inflammatory bowel disease
(3) Antibiotic-induced diarrhea
(4) Irritable bowel syndrome
Several medical journals have published several medical researches that show how probiotics help relieve symptoms of other non-stomach complications. For instance:
(1) Urinary and vaginal health
(2) Oral health
(3) Skin conditions including eczema
(4) Allergies and colds
Types of Probiotics
Fermentation produces most of probiotic products available in grocery stores today. These products are teeming with good bacteria and yeast that can restore and maintain balance in gut flora. There are many types of probiotics, which are differentiated by how they improve the digestive system.
Probiotics are often identified by the names of their genus, species and even their strains. Below is a list of probiotic strain and their corresponding health benefits:
(1) Lactobacillus. These bacteria are naturally occurring in genital, unitary and digestive system. Fermented foods including yogurt and dietary supplements contain different varieties of bacteria. These bacteria can treat and prevent several kinds of diseases including: (a) irritable bowel syndrome; (b) traveler’s diarrhea; (c) skin disorder including: (c.1) acne, (c.2) canker sores, (c.3) eczema and (c.4) fever blisters; (d) respiratory infections; (e) antibiotic-related diarrhea; (f) urinary tract infection and (g) yeast infections.
(2) Bifidobacteria. These bacteria are naturally occurring in the colon since birth especially for people who were breastfed as infants. Medical research claims that this bacteria help prevent (a) dental cavities, (b) IBS, (c) glucose intolerance. These bacteria also improve blood lipids and circulation.
(3) Saccharomyces boulardii. This is the only known yeast probiotic. Several reputable studies linked this probiotic to treating antibiotic-induced diarrhea and traveler’s diarrhea. In addition, several dermatology journals linked this probiotic to acne prevention.
(4) Streptococcis thermophiles. This probiotic is linked by several nutritionists in preventing lactose intolerance.
(5) Enterococcus faecium. This probiotic is found in many intestinal tracts of men and animals.
(6) Leuconostoc. Throughout history, this probiotic is used in natural methods of processing of food.