About Probiotic Supplements
Probiotics are live bacteria that are good for your digestive system. The most common forms of bacteria that are present in the gastrointestinal tract, L. acidophilus and Bifidobacteria bifidum, can cause digestion issues, headaches and irritability if there are not enough present.
To properly balance bacteria, you can consume foods and supplements that include “good bacteria”.
Benefits of Taking Probiotics
Everyone can take a probiotic to better their health, strengthen their immune system and improve digestion. However, a daily serving of probiotics is associated with the following benefits for common digestive issues:
- Alleviates digestive issues caused by taking too many antibiotics
- Alleviate symptoms associated with IBS, including constipation, abdominal pain and diarrhea
- Relaxes colon irritation after surgery
- Increases ability to digest food
- Improves calcium absorption
- Reduces lactose intolerance
- Increases ability to absorb the nutrients in food
Types of Probiotics
There are a few types of probiotics, all of which are classified by the job they do in your gut. The most common probiotics include:
- Lactobacillus – Lactobacillus is the most common probiotic and can be found in yogurt and fermented foods. It helps with diarrhea and digesting lactose.
- Bifidobacterium – This type of bacteria can help ease the symptoms of IBS and glucose tolerance.
- Saccharomyces boulardii – Saccharomyces boulardii is the only yeast probiotic. It’s most effective in treating diarrhea associated with antibiotic use and traveler’s diarrhea.
- Streptococcus thermophilus – Streptococcus thermophilus is effective in the prevention of lactose intolerance.
Some probiotics can be consumed through foods like yogurt and some milks and cheeses, but these can also be consumed through probiotic supplements which can be purchased at any vitamin store or aisle at the store. They can also be purchased at your pharmacy.
Contact Piedmont Colorectal Associates at (404) 351-7900 for information on digestive health.