When somebody says probiotics, your immediate association is very likely to be either yoghurt or, quite paradoxically, antibiotics. Little wonder, while the public awareness of the health benefits of these bacteria is expanding fast, it is nearly only by having yoghurt and fermented milk how most people acquire them from outside sources. There is also a solid connection with antibiotics, this rather aggressive method of treating infectious diseases, as their role is to eliminate malicious forms of bacteria, viruses and other microbes. Probiotics belong to the same category of living microorganisms, but their presence in a human body is beneficial to its general well-being and in relation to a number of specific conditions.
Like with fish oil, the healthful qualities of probiotics were discovered thanks to observations of communities where diets naturally consisted of milk fermented with lactic acid bacteria (one probiotics variety). Among residents of such usually rural areas, scientists were recording consistent longevity and concluded that consumption of these beneficial bacteria was a major factor in achieving it. More modern research confirmed that a range of friendly microorganisms were inhabiting the digestive tract (especially the intestine) and increasing their presence though a proper diet (yoghurt, sour milk) did a lot to strengthen people's general health.
Now, probiotics are increasingly well-understood, which helps discover where exactly, beyond benefiting a general well-being, they have the greatest positive impact. Research into different species (there are two major ones) and varieties (hundreds) brings more a nuanced picture of their role, too. Doctors often recommend probiotic supplements consumption as complementary or alternative therapy.
In general, they are beneficial for:
- regulation and maintenance of the digestive tract, and they have been proven effective in combating such conditions as diarrhea or irritable bowel syndrome,
- a number of conditions that affect the colon, and the intestine,
- support for the development of the immune system, as probiotics stimulate the production of other good microorganisms in a human body, strengthening its defenses
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stability of the urinary tract and treatment of its infections, especially among women,
offsetting harmful effects of antibiotics,
- easing lactose intolerance and other food absorption conditions,
- easing lactose intolerance and other food absorption conditions,
- supporting general health and well-being by sustaining the optimal bacterial flora and aiding internal biochemical processes.
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* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.