Probiotics
Probiotics are good bacteria that aid the body in digesting food and
protect the body from bad bacteria. Probiotics keep the bad
bacteria from overloading your digestive system and causing the system
to function poorly and thus losing necessary nutrients.
Probiotics have been found to kill microbes that cause diseases and
lowers the pH level in your colon. They produce vitamin A, vitamin
B and vitamin K which protect the body from illness. They make
lactase which aids in the digestion of dairy products. Probiotics
ferment the dietary fiber that is eaten and produce short-chained fatty
acids.
Low levels of probiotics can lead to ulcerative colitis, bowel
diseases and colon cancer.
Reduced levels of probiotics can lead to an immune system that is
compromised and increases the risk of infection.
Processed or pasteurized foods have little or no probiotics.
Naturally fermented foods that are uncooked are a good source of
probiotics. Yogurt, sauerkraut,
natto
(fermented soy), kvass (fermented beverage made from stale dark,
sourdough rye bread), and kefir (fermented milk) are all excellent
sources of probiotics.
Antibiotics kill all bacteria in your system. A
probiotic supplement is necessary if
you have just finished a round of antibiotics. But, many believe
taking a probiotic supplement each day can boost the immune system
and reduce the risk of illness altogether. Lactobacillus and
Bifidobacterium are the most commonly used
probiotic bacteria in dietary supplements.
Once your digestive system is healthy with a balanced amount of good
and bad bacteria, your immune system and overall health will be at its
peak level. |
