by NancyN

Created on: February 14, 2009   Last Updated: February 16, 2009

Probiotics are living microorganisms that provide for the beneficial growth of good flora in the human body. Keeping the ratio of friendly bacteria and yeast high in relation to the bad will help to achieve or maintain good health. The balance of good versus bad organisms can be compromised by such things as disease, toxins in the environment, and the use of antibiotics.

Naturally-occurring friendly bacteria provide the body with a line of defense against several kinds of disease. They are responsible for the formation of a healthy immune system. Introducing probiotics into a health regimen increases the body's ability to overcome the effects of bad bacteria and yeast.

Initially, probiotics usage was limited to issues in the gastro-intestinal tract. Research is now being conducted into their efficacy in other areas of the body, including infections of the reproductive and urinary systems, certain allergies and skin conditions, chronic fatigue, and even cancers of the colon and bladder.

The most commonly used strains are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria, but there are many others. Not all of them are equal. The effects of one type will not necessarily mimic the effects of another. Research is ongoing to determine more specifically which types of probiotics work with which types of health issues. Strains that are transient, meaning they work as they pass through the intestine, are generally not as efficient as those that colonize the intestine, providing ongoing, sustained benefit.

Probiotics are used for gastro-intestinal maladies such as lactose intolerance, diarrhea, ulcerative colitis, constipation, Crohn's disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and many others. When antibiotic treatment is used to fight an infection the good flora is killed along with the bad. Using probiotics restores the friendly bacteria to optimum levels. When this happens, many people find additional relief from food sensitivities, an inability to concentrate, acid reflux, stiff joints, recurring yeast infections, and insomnia. Properly balanced flora can lead to a feeling of well-being, which brings emotional rewards.

It's simple to begin a regimen of probiotics. They are available in supplement form as well as in many common foods. Supplements have been widely available in health food stores for years but can now be found in mainstream stores as well. They come in capsule, powder, and liquid form.

Storage is an important issue with probiotic supplements. Some probiotics require refrigeration. Their viability depends on several important factors including light exposure, dampness, and exposure to air. Glass is recommended over plastic.

Yogurt is the most popular way to include probiotics in the diet, but beneficial bacteria can be found in other foods such as sauerkraut and miso. Even a few of the softer types of cheeses contain probiotics. Acidophilus milk, buttermilk, and particularly kefir are also good sources of probiotics.

Inspired individuals can learn to make their own yogurt and kefir at home. It's easier than most people think, and making it for themselves ensures that an ongoing supply will always be on hand to keep the body's flora in a healthy balance.

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