How Probiotics Can Help Improve Your Health

Physicians who are associated with the modalities of complementary and alternative medicine are quick to recommend probiotics to their patients.

Although not new, its recent resurgence on the market, packaged in different forms, has sparked interest from individuals interested in natural health.

Probiotics is said to be an immune system booster that protects and fights against disease processes by enhancing our own humoral defenses.

As many questions arise as to the potential benefits of probiotics, we have provided answers to some of the most popular questions asked of its applications.


What are Probiotics?

Probiotics are a type of microorganism found in fermented foods such as yogurt. They are also referred to as the "good bacteria". Researchers have been studying probiotics for several years and found that there are many potential health benefits. Studies have shown that probiotics can help treat diarrhea, lower blood pressure, boost the immune system, reduce cholesterol level and prevent inflammation.

How do probiotics help treat diarrhea?

Diarrhea is a condition that occurs when food or fluid passes through the digestion system too quickly. Probiotics help prevent diarrhea by promoting normal digestion. They also help reduce some of the symptoms that are associated with gastroenteritis (stomach flu).

How do probiotics help lower blood pressure?

Ace-Inhibitors are a class of medications commonly prescribed to treat high blood pressure. They work by regulating ACE, which is one of the enzymes that control blood pressure. Researchers believe that probiotics work the same way to reduce blood pressure.

How do probiotics help boost the immune system?

There has been evidence to suggest that probiotics can help boost the immune system. Natural killer cells and T lymphocytes are the parts of the immune system that are responsible for fighting infections. Researchers believe that probiotics can help increase the number of T lymphocytes and natural killer cells.

How do probiotics help reduce cholesterol level?

There have been studies done in animals that suggest that probiotics can help reduce cholesterol level. Bile is a fluid produced in the liver that helps reabsorb cholesterol. Researchers believe that probiotics help break down bile, which prevent cholesterol from being reabsorbed in the bloodstream.

How do probiotics help prevent inflammation?

Chronic inflammation is the root cause of numerous health problems. Probiotics can help prevent inflammation from occurring. Researchers believe that probiotics help prevent white blood cells and fluids from accumulating in the blood vessels.

Other conditions that probiotics may benefit:

There has been evidence to suggest that probiotics can benefit the following conditions:

*eczema
*cold
*the flu
*bladder cancer
*colon cancer
*Irritable bowel syndrome(IBS)
*yeast infections
*urinary tract infections
*intestinal infections
*lactose intolerance
*ulterative colitis
*dental caries

How can I get more probiotics in my diet?

Yogurt and low-fat dairy products are the best sources for probiotics. They are also found in soy products and certain juices. You may also want to consider taking a supplement, but it is wise to consult with a doctor before doing so.