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Types of Friendly Bacteria in the Stomach

We may not like to think about it, but most of us carry around about 1,000 different types of bacteria in our bodies. At least 400 of those organisms have taken up residence in our stomachs. But as unpleasant as it may sound, most of the bacteria found in the stomach is actually beneficial to us, in order for our bodies to function properly.

  1. Role of Bacteria in the Stomach

    • The stomach is an important part of the body's ability to properly digest foods, but a high level of acid is required for this process to occur. Acids and enzymes in the stomach actually do most of the work. The stomach has the ability to naturally protect itself from these high acid levels by producing a mucous-like substance. For the most part, only good or friendly bacteria that need to be there can survive this process.

    Helpful Stomach Bacteria

    • Helpful bacterial organisms that thrive in the stomach are called beneficial organisms, or micro flora. These friendly stomach bacteria play a vital role in the body. Good flora help the stomach to maintain healthy pH levels, or acid levels. In addition, micro flora help safeguard the body from harmful diseases such as asthma, and aid the body in its digestive process by breaking down complex polysaccharides into sugar components that are easy for the body to use.

    Lactobacilli Bacteria

    • One of the more important beneficial flora found in the stomach is called lactobacilli. This healthy bacteria plays an important role in ridding the stomach of Helicobactor phylori, a harmful bacteria that can cause ulcers, gastritis and even painful dysepsia. Lactobacilli bacteria acts as a shield in the stomach against H phylori, particularly in the stomachs of children.

    More Friendly Bacteria for Stomachs

    • Another type of friendly bacteria that can be found in the stomach is bifidobacteria. This beneficial flora helps aid the stomach in the breakdown and release of vitamins, including vitamins B and K, as well as a number of essential minerals. Bifidobacteria is a branched anaerobic bacteria that also helps to lower some chronic diseases. Bifidobacteria is often used in manufactured probiotics, which are dietary supplements geared specifically towards creating a healthy bacteria level in the human stomach. The friendly bacteria can also be found in processed food like yogurt.

    How Do They Get There?

    • The human stomach is one of four areas of the body, including the liver and intestines, where bacteria commonly live. It is also the perfect host for bacteria, which thrive in moist, warm areas without the aid of oxygen. There are a number of ways that bacteria can enter your stomach area, including through the foods you eat or liquids you drink. Some bacteria are directed to the stomach through the digestive tract and others can simply pass through the skin and make their way to the stomach.

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