The Pros of Probiotics

by Garreth Myers

Most of us usually associate microorganisms like bacteria and yeast with illnesses and diseases. Therefore, tossing down a few million (or billion) bacteria, each day, for better health may seem a bit strange. However, certain strains of live bacteria, commonly known as probiotics, are said to be highly beneficial for the human body.

Almost all health experts today are talking about Probiotics, the “friendly” microorganisms that are good for your body. Several food manufacturers have also started adding these “good bacteria” to their food items, after realizing the various benefits of probiotics. Therefore, in addition to yogurt, you could get your daily required intake of probiotics from items such as chocolate bars, juice, granola bars and supplements. There are two species of good bacteria commonly found in food products today. These bacteria are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.

But are probiotics really as good for us as we think they are? Dr. Melina B Jampolis, M. D says they are, as they keep the cells lining the intestines healthy. She further adds that probiotics produce vitamins as well as lactase, an enzyme that helps your digestive system process milk and dairy products.

While research is still on to determine all the pros of probiotics, these bacteria are said to help treat or prevent a variety of medical problems, some of which include:

Urinary tract infections and vaginal infections
Irritable bowel syndrome
Skin infections and disorders like eczema
Respiratory infections, especially in children
Stomach and gastrointestinal infections
Diarrhea, caused by antibiotics (in children and infants)
Inflammatory bowel disease
Tooth decay and periodontal disease

Good bacteria are not likely to make you sick; instead, they keep the pathogens, or the harmful microorganisms, in control. They also improve essential functions like digestion and nutrient absorption. Probiotics contribute to better immune function too. Scientists and medical experts at the Baylor College of Medicine & The MD Anderson Cancer Center are also checking to see if probiotics can help slow down the growth of malignant tumors. Researchers believe that understanding probiotics and their effects in a better manner could result in the formation of a probiotic-based regimen for curing and preventing colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease.

While the use of probiotics in the treatment of various health problems may seem like the latest breakthrough, Dr. Susan Lucak M.D., a gastroenterologist and special lecturer at The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University claims that humans have been consuming Probiotics in one form or the other, for over 100 years. Dr. Lucak adds that while probiotics have a fairly good safety record, their effects on individuals with weakened immune systems have yet to be studied. She further states that in those who are healthy, probiotics may not necessarily provide any additional health benefits. Another major concern according to Dr. Lucak is that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate probiotics. Therefore, it is not easy to assess accurately, the effectiveness of one probiotic-type as compared to another.

In some people, the use of probiotics could lead to minor health problems, such as abdominal discomfort, bloating and gas. These side effects tend to occur in those who are elderly or too young and are usually temporary. In case the adverse effects of probiotics seem to last for a longer period of time, speak to your doctor about it immediately. You should avoid probiotic supplements completely, if you are very ill, have a compromised immune system or are undergoing any kind of treatment. Certain strains of “good bacteria” could interfere with your medication and therefore, it is absolutely essential that you check with a doctor, before adding probiotics to your daily diet.

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