Mr P
,
What are Probiotics?
In 2002, a Joint FAO/WHO Working Group defined probiotics as "live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host." In other words, probiotics are live bacteria that are beneficial to your health, when eaten in an adequate amount. It is important for your large intestine to maintain a healthy count of these "good" bacteria - a concept first promoted by a Russian scientist back in 1907!
Health Benefits of Probiotics
Studies have found that probiotics may improve nutrient bioavailability, for B vitamins, calcium, iron, zinc, copper, magnesium and phosphorus, among others.
Pediatric studies have found that certain strains (such as Lactobacillus GG, found in Culturelle capsules) may aid in significantly decreasing the rate of acute diarrhea and rotavirus shedding. Parents also reported a 25% decrease in diaper rash among babies drinking formula containing probiotics.
Probiotics and active bacteria culture may improve lactose intolerance. The bacterial strain commonly used in yogurt can produce lactase enzymes. Therefore, people with lactose intolerance and children suffering from intestinal infection can usually tolerate yogurt with an active culture.
Some studies have shown that by regulating intestinal transit time, probiotics improve constipation among the elderly.
Other studies have shown that probiotics, especially acidophilus, promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the colon and reduce the conversion of bile into carcinogens (cancer-causing substances).
Some studies have found that probiotics may enhance immunity by regulating lymphocytes and antibodies
In 2002, a Joint FAO/WHO Working Group defined probiotics as "live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host." In other words, probiotics are live bacteria that are beneficial to your health, when eaten in an adequate amount. It is important for your large intestine to maintain a healthy count of these "good" bacteria - a concept first promoted by a Russian scientist back in 1907!
Health Benefits of Probiotics
Studies have found that probiotics may improve nutrient bioavailability, for B vitamins, calcium, iron, zinc, copper, magnesium and phosphorus, among others.
Pediatric studies have found that certain strains (such as Lactobacillus GG, found in Culturelle capsules) may aid in significantly decreasing the rate of acute diarrhea and rotavirus shedding. Parents also reported a 25% decrease in diaper rash among babies drinking formula containing probiotics.
Probiotics and active bacteria culture may improve lactose intolerance. The bacterial strain commonly used in yogurt can produce lactase enzymes. Therefore, people with lactose intolerance and children suffering from intestinal infection can usually tolerate yogurt with an active culture.
Some studies have shown that by regulating intestinal transit time, probiotics improve constipation among the elderly.
Other studies have shown that probiotics, especially acidophilus, promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the colon and reduce the conversion of bile into carcinogens (cancer-causing substances).
Some studies have found that probiotics may enhance immunity by regulating lymphocytes and antibodies
