Digestive Health and Probiotics
Written By: Dr. Jan McBarren, Duke and The Doctor
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Published - Jan 3, 2010
Digestive Health and Probiotics
What are Probiotics?
Probiotics are actually live organisms, or rather ‘good bacteria’. Many probiotics can be found in common foods like yogurt and some cheeses, and others can be found in supplements and also in our bodies. Probiotics have been studied for their many immune and digestive health benefits since the early 20th century. Though many probiotics are grown from a dairy fermentation process, now in the 21st century plant based probiotics are also available.
How probiotics can help?
Probiotics can also be found within our bodies and several hundred different species exist within the digestive system. These probiotics help break down foods and assist into maintaining a healthy intestinal lining. There has been some research to suggest that some digestive problems arise due to an imbalance in the digestive tract.
Digestive Problems
Several common digestive problems experienced by many include diarrhea, upset stomach, gas, bloating, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). More serious problems include some food allergies, inflammation, and even colon problems. Studies have found that having a good balance of these probiotics ‘friendly bacteria’ may also provide support to the body’s immune system as well.