What Are Biotics?

Biotic means "of or relating to life." Biotics can be described as antibiotics -- substances which kill certain microorganisms; probiotics -- live microorganisms that are beneficial to the host; prebiotics -- supplements that improve microflora in the digestive tract; and abiotics -- non-living factors that affect the life of an organism or microorganism.

Antibiotics

• Antibiotics are perhaps the most recognizable biotics. Twelve percent of the drugs prescribed in the U.S. are antibiotics. Since the discovery of penicillin by Alexander Fleming in 1928, doctors have prescribed antibiotics for the treatment of a number of diseases caused by bacteria, fungi and certain parasites. Because most infections are caused by either viruses or bacteria, antibiotics help treat diseases such as pneumonia, strep throat, sinus, ear and skin infections and a host of other illnesses. Penicillin drugs, including ampicillin and amoxicillin, are the most commonly prescribed antibiotics. Others include sulfonamides, tetracycline and cephalosporins. Natural substances that may have antibiotic properties include garlic and clove. Antibiotics are not effective against viruses.

Probiotics

• Probiotics supply beneficial microorganisms that are naturally found in the digestive tract of mammals. Because there are over 400 different types of bacteria in the digestive tract of healthy adults, antibiotic use, environmental factors and diet can upset the delicate balance of the intestinal flora, causing diarrhea, indigestion and other adverse conditions. Supplementing with probiotics can help restore the natural balance of gut flora by repopulating the digestive tract with these beneficial organisms. Some of the most prevalent microorganisms in the gut include bacteroides, fusobacterium, bifidobacterium and lactobacillus. Don't take probiotics without first consulting a health care professional.

Prebiotics

• Prebiotics feed beneficial intestinal bacteria. Prebiotics consist of nondigestible nutrients found in food and are sometimes sold as supplements. Prebiotics provide the friendly bacteria with energy so they can do their job. These nutrients, sometimes called fermentable fiber, can be taken with probiotics and are found in artichokes, bananas, barley, berries, flax, garlic, legumes, onions, whole grains and other foods. Prebiotics are sometimes added to processed foods, such as yogurt and meal bars, to aid with digestion. Many foods contain prebiotics but are not labeled as such. Powdered prebiotic supplements can be added to food or taken in capsule form. Prebiotics may be beneficial in boosting your immunity or improving certain digestive and intestinal conditions but more research is necessary to prove their benefit conclusively.

Abiotics

• Abiotics are non-living conditions that affect living organisms. Environment and climate are examples of abiotic factors.