How to Use Probiotics

Probiotics are the living bacteria that resemble the healthy bacteria of the digestive system.
Certain conditions can cause the decline of healthy bacteria, such as antibiotics and a poor diet. Scientists have learned this bacteria can be replaced, in part, with probiotic supplements.
Several studies presented at the American College of Gastroenterology's 73rd Annual Scientific Meeting in Orlando, Florida (2008) showed that priobiotics can relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Other studies have shown that probiotics can relieve infant colic.
Probiotics have also proven to be a powerful boost to the immune system. They grow naturally in certain foods, and are widely available in capsules and bottled powder.

Instructions

• 1

  Understand that the concept of helpful bacteria began back in 1908, when Ukrainian microbiologist Elie Metchnikoff discovered that Bulgarian peasants, who consumed large quantities of sour milk containing the bacteria Lactobacillus bulgaricus, lived longer. He also coined the term "probiotics," which means "for life."

• 2

  Learn that probiotics exist in yogurt and also in a variety of other food products, such as:
  Aged cheese
  Cottage cheese (look for ones that show the types of bacteria on the label)
  Kefir
  Kimchi
  Miso
  Pickled ginger
  Pickles (look for pickles cured without vinegar)
  Sauerkraut
  Shoyu
  Tamari
  Wine
  If you don't like these natural food choices, it's not a problem, since probiotics are available in non-food forms. High quality probiotics are available in capsule and bottled powders at health food stores, online, and co-ops. Registered dietitians and nutritionists also stock probiotic supplements.

• 3

  Understand that there are many types of probiotics, each having a scientific name. Some examples are lactobacillus acidopholus, lactobacillus bifidus and casei immunitas. These types of probiotics can be found in yogurt sold in grocery stores. However, most of these yogurts are pasteurized, a process that kills the beneficial bacteria.

• 4

  Before taking probiotic supplements, be sure to consult with your physician, dietician or nutritionist. A qualified health professional can provide suitable advice regarding which probiotic will be most helpful to you.