Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help maintain a healthy balance of microorganisms in the digestive tract. They can support digestion, bowel health and the body’s natural resistance to harmful bacteria.
Beneficial bacteria can be reduced by antibiotics, stress, age, poor health and other factors, potentially contributing to digestive problems, diarrhoea and yeast infections. Probiotic supplementation can help restore this balance.
Probiotics may also support immune health and have been studied in relation to allergies, cholesterol, vaginal and urinary health. Because stomach acid can destroy some probiotic bacteria, products designed to survive the stomach and reach the intestines are preferable.
Lactobacillus – Helps maintain healthy intestinal flora and may help control harmful bacteria and Candida. It can be particularly useful for restoring gut bacteria following antibiotic treatment.
Bifidobacterium – Helps ferment carbohydrates and produce lactic acid and acetate. It may support healthy intestinal bacteria following antibiotic use and contributes to the production of several B vitamins.
Lactobacillus acidophilus – One of the best-known probiotic strains. It supports healthy intestinal and vaginal bacteria, helps create an environment unsuitable for harmful organisms and produces lactase, which assists in the digestion of lactose.
Bifidobacterium lactis – Supports bowel regularity and may help with constipation, diarrhoea and intestinal inflammation. It is resistant to stomach acid and bile, allowing it to reach the colon effectively.
Bifidobacterium longum – Commonly found in the large intestine. It supports digestion, helps prevent harmful bacteria from attaching to the intestinal wall and may help reduce digestive upset, particularly during antibiotic use.
Lactobacillus paracasei – Supports healthy gut flora and immune function and may be helpful for diarrhoea and symptoms associated with IBS. It can also help maintain a healthy balance of intestinal bacteria during antibiotic treatment.
Lactobacillus salivarius – Found in both the mouth and digestive tract. It supports healthy gut flora and has anti-inflammatory properties. It may also support oral health and help inhibit unwanted bacteria such as H. pylori.
Lactobacillus plantarum – Helps support the intestinal barrier and maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria. It is commonly used in products aimed at IBS and other digestive disorders and may support immune and bowel health.
Bifidobacterium bifidum – Supports digestion and the production of vitamins B and K. It may help reduce gas and constipation while supporting healthy intestinal and vaginal flora. It may also contribute to healthy cholesterol metabolism.
Overall, probiotics can be an important part of maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, particularly when beneficial bacteria have been disrupted.