Probiotic Effects

Probiotics are dietary supplements which are designed to enhance natural human digestion through the aid of live bacterial cultures. Since the initial research on probiotics in the early 20th century, over 20 strains of helpful bacteria have been identified and incorporated into a variety of capsules and foods which help regulate bowel movement and provide a significant number of long-term benefits. While most of the effects of probiotics have on the human body are extremely beneficial, there are several negative effects which should be considered before a daily regimen is started.

Considerations

• All humans naturally have colonies of bacteria which live inside the stomach and intestines. These bacteria enjoy a symbiotic relationship with humans, as they receive ample nourishment and a hospitable living environment while providing digestive assistance and natural pH balance to their hosts. However, these beneficial colonies of bacteria can become depleted over time due to illness, poor diet, and the abuse of certain medications like laxatives. The reduction of these colonies can negatively affect the entire digestive system and result in constipation and abdominal discomfort.

Function

• Probiotics essentially work by helping to maintain and replenish these colonies of beneficial bacteria. They can be ingested through a variety of means, including daily capsules, yogurt shots, or enhanced dairy products. Capsules of probiotics are similar to capsules of any nutrient, and contain live bacteria within an easily digestible shell. Small yogurt shots, which contain less than one ounce of yogurt infused with high numbers of probiotics, can be taken once a day instead of the capsule. Significant numbers of probiotics have also become included in many types of milk, cheeses, and yogurts to help keep numbers of gut flora high.

Initial Effects

• The initial effect of probiotics is an increase in bowel movements and a decrease in constipation. Individuals who began taking probiotics may notice that their stools become less hard and pass much easier. Another initial effect of probiotics is a decrease in abdominal bloating associated with constipation and poor digestion.

Long Term Effects

• Probiotics also yield effects that manifest after consistent long-term use. These include increased immune function, a lowering of cholesterol and blood pressure, and also mild, but noticeable, weight loss. Individuals who are lactose intolerant have also noted that consistent use of probiotics have decreased their sensitivity to dairy products, and people who deal with chronic irritable bowel syndrome have also reported a lessening of symptoms when incorporating probiotics into their daily diet.

Negative Effects

• While most of the effects of probiotics are beneficial, there are some uncomfortable side effects that occur especially within the first month of use. These effects include diarrhea, abdominal cramping, too frequent bowel movement, and increased flatulence, all of which decrease over time. A more serious allegation against probiotics suggests that regular probiotic consumption in individuals who suffer from acute pancreatitis results in a higher risk of death than in those who do not.