What Is a Probiotic Supplement?

A probiotic supplement is a dietary augmentation that seeks to increase the amount of healthy microorganisms in the human digestive tract. These supplements are available over the counter in capsule form and are meant to be taken several times throughout the day. Probitic supplements have received increased attention among the general population in recent years, as the role and benefits of stomach microorganisms in treating gastrointestinal issues have been more closely examined.

History

• Probiotics were first seriously studied at the Pasteur Institute in Paris at the turn of the 20th century by several leading microbiologists, include Henry Tissier and Eli Metchnikoff. Metchnikoff, who won the Nobel Prize for Medicine in 1908, hypothesized that encouraging the colonies of non-harmful gut flora by adjusting the pH of the stomach could reduce many of the health problems associated with aging. While his idea of using fermented dairy products to manage the pH proved incorrect, the concept of his theory gained attention and further research was conducted. In 1953, the name "probiotics" was officially given to the group of bacteria stains that had been found to positively enhance the functioning of the digestive tract.

Types

• Within the group of probiotics, there are over 23 distinct varieties of individual bacterial strains. The most common strain is lactobacillus, with over 15 substrains. As the prefix of the name indicates, lactobacillus is a derivative of a dairy-based culture and is naturally found in products like yogurt and milk. The populations of lactobacillus substrains are freeze-dried before being packaged in capsule form as a supplement.

Benefits

• There are many benefits associated with regularly taking probiotic supplements. Probiotics have been shown to be helpful in treating lactose intolerance, lowering cholesterol, preventing colon cancer, improving immune system function, lowering blood pressure and improving nutrient absorption. Individuals who suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome and chronic colitis have also noted that probiotic supplements decrease the severity and discomfort of their symptoms.

Side Effects

• The side effects of probiotic supplements are typically mild and cease after about a week of regular use. Common side effects include abdominal bloating, diarrhea, frequent gas and intestinal cramping. Drinking adequate amounts of water and avoiding high-fiber foods, laxatives and other products that also increase bowel movements can help ease these side effects.

Dangers

• As probiotic supplements merely augment and replenish the supply of gut flora that naturally exists in the human body, the potential for adverse reactions is extremely low. However, a 2008 study showed that individuals who suffered from acute pancreatitis had increased rates of death when taking a regimen of probiotics.