Someone was once asked to define probiotics. She broke the word down into pro-bio-tics. She said “pro= before”, “bio= life”, but got stranded when she was to tell what “tics” is. So, her definition was something like “before life…”. Is that true? Let’s find out as we discuss probiotics and their health benefits.
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for you, especially your digestive system. We usually think of these as germs that cause diseases. But your body is full of bacteria, both good and bad. Probiotics are often called “good” or “helpful” bacteria because they help keep your gut healthy.
You can find probiotics in supplements and some foods, like yogurt. Doctors often suggest them to help with digestive problems.
How Do They Work?
Some of the ways they may keep you healthy:
When you lose “good” bacteria in your body, for example after you take antibiotics, probiotics can help replace them.
They can help balance i.e maintain equilibrium between the “good” and “bad” bacteria to keep your body working the way it should.
Amazing Benefits of Probiotics and Why You Need Them:
In relation to food, they have certain benefits that are ascribed to them when consumed in certain amount. The lactic acid bacteria (lactobacillus) is an example of this microorganism which produces lactic acid as the main end product of carbohydrate fermentation.
There are increasing scientific evidences in favour of the claim of the beneficial effect of probiotics, the health benefits of probiotics include:
1) Improvement of the intestinal health;
2) Enhancement of immune response;
3) Reduction in serum cholesterol;
4) Cancer prevention;
5) Treatment of acute diarrhoea; and
6) Prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhoea.
How Can You Get Them?
Probiotic food products are found in dairy products like cheese,ice-cream,yoghurts,fermented milk etc.
They can also be found in non-dairy products like cereals, soy-based products,some varieties of fruit juice etc.
When thinking something good for your health, think about PROBIOTICS.
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