What are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live microorganisms — in most cases, bacteria — similar to the beneficial microorganisms found in the human gut. Sometimes referred to as “good bacteria” or “friendly bacteria,” probiotics are attainable to consumers generally through dietary supplements and foods.
Uses for Health Purposes
People have an interest in probiotics for health purposes for various reasons. The world has an overabundance of microorganisms, including bacteria, as do people’s bodies – not only in their gut, but also in and on the skin, and other orifices. The good bacteria are essential to the suitable progression of the immune system, protection against disease-causing microorganisms, and to the proper digestion and absorption of food and nutrients. The desire to harness the power of this bacteria has led to a demand for probiotic supplements to be taken alongside food to help people with their health. As a result, private label softgels can be easily manufactured by third-party companies to help get them onto the market for the suppliers.
The balancing act of these bacteria can go awry in two major ways:
1. Taking antibiotics kill unfriendly, as well as friendly bacteria.
2. Unfriendly microorganisms, such as disease-causing bacteria, fungi, yeasts, and parasites can disturb the balance.
Researchers are investigating whether probiotics could be capable of stopping the unfriendly agents in the first place, or at least suppress their advancement and activity in such conditions as:
§ Infectious diarrhea
§ Irritable bowel syndrome
§ Inflammatory bowel syndrome
§ Periodontal disease and tooth decay
§ Vaginal infections
§ Skin infections
Side Effects and Risks
While the safety of probiotics has not been thoroughly researched scientifically, there are cases of live microorganisms having extended use as probiotics with no side effects. More research is required, however, particularly for the safety of our elderly people, young children, and people with compromised immune systems.
If side effects do occur, they tend to be of a mild digestive nature, such as gas or bloating, although, some serious effects have been noted in some people. Moreover, while probiotics are prescribed to those who have digestive problems, the following problems can occur:
§ Bloating
§ Diarrhea
§ Gas
§ Problems with fungal infections
§ Metabolism changes
Severe side effects are very rare, but if they do appear, they usually go away without repercussions. However, there are those who do not tolerate probiotics, so a doctor’s visit would be highly recommended for relevant analysis and examinations to determine whether your digestive organs are too sensitive and possibly at risk.
Which Foods Contain Probiotics?
Although probiotics are usually considered dietary supplements, they are widely available in foods. Some food sources containing probiotics are as follows:
§ Yogurt
§ Fermented milk
§ Unfermented milk
§ Miso
§ Tempeh
§ Some juices and soy beverages
In probiotic supplements and foods, the bacteria may have originally been present or added during preparation.
Some of the probiotic foods date back to ancient times, such as the fermented foods and cultured milk products. A lot of enthusiasm in probiotics has been flourishing in recent years, as evidenced in United States’ spending on probiotic supplements — during 1994 to 2003, sales nearly tripled.
Jessica says
My family has been taking probiotics for years…FABULOUS benefits!
Jessica
Shop with Me Mama says
Very interesting! I never knew most of that, thanks!
Kelly says
My daughter’s been battling an ear infection since the beginning of January and probiotics have become our close friend!
Melinda Babiak says
I know probiotics work well for my body and our youngest daughters but our son doesn’t react well to them, he get stomach upset from them.
JulieD says
We have been taking probiotics in our household since the vet recommended it for our dog a couple of years ago!
monique says
We use them daily over here.
Marcy says
We have always enjoyed the benefits of probiotics! New follower, would love a follow back at http://www.lifesgristle.blogspot.com
Annie @ Mama Dweeb says
thank you for explaining this!! My 2 month old daughter is on antibiotics and has thrush and yeast infection. A friend suggested probiotics and I was wondering what they were. Thank you so much!
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