The Effects of Probiotics

Probiotics are "good" bacteria similar to microorganisms found in the human gut. They are found found in some foods and beverages. Probiotics can also be taken as supplements.

Benefits

• Probiotics have been used to treat a host of medical conditions, from diarrhea to yeast infections. They may also assist in boosting the immune system to make people less susceptible to illness.

Source

• Probiotics can be found in both food and supplements. Yogurt with live cultures is the most common source of probiotics, but they are also in some milks (kefir), soy drinks and juices.

Supplementation

• Some people prefer to get their probiotics in supplements. Forms of probiotic supplements include tablets, powders and liquids. Most can be found at the local grocery store pharmacy.

Signifiance

• Regular use of probiotics may be able to improve one's general health. A study done in Sweden in 2005 found that employees who were given lactobacillus missed less work than those who were not given the probiotic.

Potential

• Scientists are currently studying the potential of probiotics in reducing allergies in children and reducing the risk for some cancers. Studies continue on the effects of probiotics in preventing and treating a host of gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome.

Warning

• When taken in food, there are few side effects from consuming probiotics. As with any supplement, it is best to talk to your doctor before taking probiotic supplements.