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Wednesday, February 12, 2014

By Marcie Goodman


The World Health organization defines a probiotic as any living microorganism that has a health benefit when ingested. These supplements are associated with many health benefits as they help keep the correct balance of bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract of the human body. Organic probiotics are often recommended by health practitioners as they contain no extra ingredients like preservatives or fillers.

The gut is home to many bacterial species and each person has a varying mix of bacteria crucial to their well being. When food passes through the gastrointestinal tract these bacteria facilitate digestion and up to 10 percent of the daily energy needs of the individual come from the byproducts of good bacteria. Various factors like diet, medication, stress and illness can destroy the good bacteria.

The theory is that when good bacteria are abundant in the body, it is much harder for bacteria that cause illness to get a foothold. This is because the sites lining the gastrointestinal tract are already populated by the healthy bacteria. They form a protective barrier against the bad bacteria.

It is important to select the most effective probiotic to take as there are some brands that are better than others. Some products contain only the strongest, most resilient bacteria that are able to survive the onslaught of stressors once they enter the body. They survive in the gut and repopulate it with good bacteria.

A general purpose variety is available for those with no specific problems but simply wish to maintain their health and boost their immune systems. Others are designed to promote specific functions, such as those that help with constipation. Selection has to be made with the specific purpose in mind.

Research has proved that healthy bacteria are particularly useful against diarrhea associated with the use of antibiotics. However, current research is revealing that they are capable of much more than just helping with digestive problems. One of their primary functions is to stimulate the immune system.

Studies are being done to see how successful they are at treating conditions like ulcerative colitis and inflammatory bowel syndrome. There is even evidence emerging that these supplements may help those suffering from food allergies by restoring the balance of gut flora. Another interesting study conducted on those suffering from obesity, revealed that they have different gut flora from individuals of normal weight.

As there are an abundance of suppliers of these products, it can be difficult to choose the right product. Reputable online suppliers often give information about the research done in developing the product and what it contains. The dosage, strain and species are all important factors to consider.

Taking organic probiotics is a safe, natural way to improve the balance in the gut. They are not some miracle overnight cure-all but when taken for a period of time, they have great health benefits. They not only benefit the digestive system but boost the immune system too. Research is beginning to show that there could in fact be many other health benefits to taking them too.




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