Types of Probiotics

Probiotics are live microorganisms residing in the intestinal tract helping to keep it functioning in a state of health. They are currently being studied for their potential usefulness in aiding the immune system and in the treatment and prevention of disease.

Groups of Probiotics

• The "good bacteria" found in our intestinal tract are known as probiotics. The genera Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are the most common probiotic groups each containing different species and different strains within each species (see "Video" in resources).

Lactobacillus Acidophilus

• L. acidophilus, a species of Lactobacillus, is used to treat antibiotic diarrhea, yeast infections and urinary tract infections. It is being studied for its possible benefit in protecting against colon cancer and the adverse effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Bifidobacterium Infantis

• B. infantis, a species of Bifidobacterium, helps to alleviate the problems associated with infantile diarrhea and to aid in the digestion of dairy products. As an additional benefit, it provides help in the regulation of bowel function.

Streptococcus Thermophilus

• S. thermophilus, a species of the probiotic Streptococcus, has been used to treat inflammatory bowel disease and pouchitis, an inflammation that can occur after surgery for ulcerative colitis.

Lactobacillus Casei

• Some strains of L. casei are known to have anti-inflammatory effects and offer immune support helping to strengthen the body's defenses against disease (see "Resources").