Probiotics basics
Bacteria: A battle between good and evil?
Antibiotics, antibacterial soap and antibacterial household cleaners -- whatever it takes, we're out to wipe out bacteria. But not all bacteria are created equal. While there's much discussion lately about the use of antibiotics, which are aimed at killing harmful bacteria, probiotics, where beneficial bacteria are introduced to the body, is a hotbed of research. Probiotics may help fight off gastrointestinal and vaginal infections as well as provide benefits for those with allergies and some bowel disorders.
Yogurt and other fermented dairy products have long been hailed as being health foods, of sorts. Recent research is showing how these fermented dairy products may work. Some contain certain strains of bacteria that may provide health-promoting effects. Among them are strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.
Counteract the side effects of antibiotics
Taking in some probiotics may be especially useful following the use of antibiotics, particularly when diarrhea pays a visit. Antibiotics frequently kill both the harmful and beneficial bacteria in the gut and can sometimes lead to diarrhea. The entire scenario can upset the balance of bacteria, leaving the gut short on the good type. Probiotics may then counter these effects. Researchers at Indiana University's School of Medicine tested the yogurt-probiotic theory on more than 200 patients following the use of antibiotics and found that those who consumed the yogurt had significantly less diarrhea than those not given the yogurt. Other research points to better bowel regularity, which may be helpful to those who suffer from constipation.
While the research in the area is very promising, there is no consensus as to which products deliver the best dose of probiotics, how often they should be consumed and for which ailments or conditions they offer proven benefits.
Probiotic supplements
Probiotic supplements come in capsule, liquid and tablet form. If the supplements are properly prepared and stored, probiotic bacteria can remain viable in dried form and reach the intestine alive after being consumed. But this may not always be the case. And in some instances, the supplements may not contain what the label states. In an article in the December 2005 issue of Clinical Microbiology and Infection, European experts found that a number of probiotics had incorrect labelling, fewer strains of beneficial bacteria and, of great concern, the presence of strains not included on labels, some of which may cause infections. As a result, the scientists called for an international consensus on evaluating the value and safety of probiotic supplements. Until then, when it comes to supplements, it's buyer beware.
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