PROBIOTICS 101: WHAT IS A PROBIOTIC?
Probiotics are known as friendly or good bacteria. Definitions of the term probiotic have evolved over the years to today’s consensus, developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations: Probiotics are live bacteria which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. [1]

While the general belief is that the only good bacteria are dead bacteria, that’s not true. It’s a common misconception that all bacteria are the enemy and should be eliminated. While there are plenty of bad bacteria, the majority of bacteria are critical to our survival.

GUT FLORA
The body contains huge numbers of bacteria naturally. In fact, the number of bacteria in the gut is ten times the total number of cells in the entire human body. [2] While that sounds scary, it’s really not. These bacteria are part of a complex ecosystem in the gut called intestinal flora or gut flora. [3] The gut flora performs a number of useful functions in the body and is important for good health. [4]

FUNCTIONS OF THE GUT FLORA
The gut flora performs a number of useful functions in the body [4]:

• Influence the development and function of the gut


• Assist in digestion and absorption of nutrients


• Synthesize vitamins


• Assist in the absorption of minerals


• Break down dietary carcinogens


• Influence the development and function of the immune system


• Form a natural defense barrier against bacteria, toxins and antigens


• Protect the body against infection

PROBIOTICS AND GUT FLORA
Probiotics are supplements just like vitamins and minerals that contribute to a balanced gut flora to enhance your health and well-being.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF PROBIOTICS
The dietary use of probiotics to support gut health and health in general is becoming wellestablished. Probiotics are found in infant formula, supplements and as components of food and beverages.

Studies confirm that regular consumption of probiotics in adequate amounts may provide overall health benefits for people of all ages.

Daily consumption of probiotics may be beneficial in one of several ways. [5] Some probiotics positively change the gut flora to correct an imbalance in the ratio of good to bad bacteria. Some promote good digestion and help with common digestive upsets, while others stimulate the local immune function. [6-55]

 

References

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