Archive for the ‘Do You Want Probiotics That Are Effective’ Category
Do You Want Probiotics That Are Effective
December 1st, 2010 | 
Author: A probiotic is a substance which promotes the growth of good bacteria in the gut. It contains microorganisms which are beneficial to the host organism. This concept of using bacteria for good health is not new and has been used since the last 5000 years. Many centuries ago people used to ferment milk products and these products contained probiotics. According to one of the old myths, Persian people believed that Abraham of the Old Testament owed his longevity to fermented milk.
During the 16th century, the French king Francis I used yogurt to cure himself from a disease.
How does a probiotic work? According to the theory human body is host to many microorganisms and bacteria called gut flora which basically are beneficial for our health. Probiotics play a pivotal role in nutrition as the microbial population is modified by the use of antibiotics and other substances which are designed to eliminate germs and diseases.
As per the definition given in the year 2002, probiotics were defined as, ‘live microorganisms that when consumed in sufficient amount would convey health benefit to the host’. That is, if one takes a particular amount of probiotic, it gives benefits to the host. Probiotics also help to boost the immunity system by regulating lymphocytes and antibodies. They also protect your heart and prevent constipation especially in people of old age. This becomes possible as the probiotics regulate the intestinal transit time with the consumption of the live microorganism.
According to the studies conducted worldwide, probiotics improve the availability of nutrients like vitamin B, iron, zinc, calcium, magnesium and copper. Pediatric research reveals that some strains like the Lactobacillus GG in Culturelle capsules can help in reducing the rate of acute diarrhea and shedding of rotavirus. In fact, if babies are given a formula containing the live organism, it helps to reduce the diaper rash by 25 per cent.
It is also beneficial for people suffering from lactose intolerance. Drinking probiotics or consuming probiotics products like yogurt can help improve their condition. Children and adults taking yogurt regularly can fight intestinal infections due to the presence of active culture. Yogurt and Sauerkraut are the two foods which contain good bacteria.