What Are Probiotics?

Your body is rife with bacteria—on your skin, fingernails and eyelashes, plus in your mouth and digestive system. But not all bacteria is harmful. In fact, health experts believe that some bacteria is needed to promote good digestion and strong immunity. These good bacteria, called probiotics, appear in foods and on the shelf next to your vitamins. But what exactly are they, how can they help and which ones are best?

The scoop on probiotics

The World Health Organization defines probiotics as “live microorganisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host.” Most often, the bacteria in probiotics come from two groups, lactobacillus or bifidobacterium.

Probiotics are often used in conjunction with antibiotics to help prevent side effects like diarrhea. In cases where broad-spectrum antibiotics (designed to kill all bacteria in your body, even good bacteria) are necessary, probiotics help reintroduce good bacteria back into your body.

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that probiotics may help:

• Manage diarrhea
• Prevent and treat urinary tract or female genital tract infections
• Manage irritable bowel syndrome
• Reduce recurrence of bladder cancer
• Prevent and manage eczema in children

Probiotic sources

While they may be new to you, some probiotic foods date back to ancient civilizations, such as fermented foods and cultured milk products. Foods that may contain probiotic additives include:

• Yogurt
• Fermented and unfermented milk
• Miso (Japanese seasoning)
• Tempeh (similar to tofu)
• Some juices and soy beverages

Buyer beware

Probiotics are not regulated in the United States as drugs—they are classified as food. The Food and Drug Administration has no control over whether manufacturers are living up to their claims or if there is live bacteria in the product. The amount and potency of the bacteria can vary, even from bottle to bottle.

When choosing a probiotic supplement, consider several things:

• Check the label—it should tell you the bacteria’s group, species and strain, and how many microorganisms will be alive on the use-by date.
• Buy products from established companies with good a reputation.
• Make sure there’s an expiration date and store the product according to package instructions.

Probiotics do have some side effects. Talk with your doctor if you’re thinking about starting a diet rich in probiotics.

Has it been a while since your last check-up, or do you need a new physician? Call us at 317.565.0535 to request an appointment.

Sources: Gastro.org, NIH.gov