Probiotics are “good bacteria” naturally found in the lining of the intestinal tract. Together with trillions of other microorganisms, they form the microbiome. Having a healthy gut microbiome is important for gastrointestinal health, immune function and metabolism.
Some foods contain probiotics. Some yogurts, kefir and buttermilk are included in fermented foods such as kimchi and sauerkraut.
There is some scientific evidence that probiotics may help digestive problems. Including lactose intolerance, C. Difficile infection, and pouchitis, a type of irritable bowel syndrome.
Most experts agree that adding probiotics to your diet is not harmful to your health. However, each of us has a unique microbiome, so these substances will act differently in each person’s body. Another problem is that the amount of probiotics people take is too small to change the microbiome.
Adding to the confusion, there are many different types of probiotics. Some of the best known are Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and Streptococcus thermophilus. Each species contains thousands of different species.
The effectiveness of probiotics may also be affected by a person’s age and gender. The same goes for diet and place of residence. Dysfunction of the immune system, weakened immunity, and some genetic disorders can also alter the composition of the microbiome.
News materials cannot be equated with a doctor’s prescription. Consult an expert before making a decision.
Source: Ferra
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