PROBIOTICS…A new and not so new word being used today in regards to good health. What are “Probiotics”? Probiotics are the beneficial microorganisms that inhabit a healthy digestive tract. They, basically, are responsible for promoting healthy digestion, nutrient absorption and a healthy immune system. Our digestive system cannot function at its best without an abundance of beneficial microbes in it. Probiotics are the good guys. They balance the natural flora creating an environment in which bad bacteria, yeasts and viruses cannot thrive. They support the health and integrity of the intestinal lining. Unfortunately, our digestive systems do not always contain enough probiotics. One reason for this is that the modern diet is largely devoid of probiotic-rich fermented foods – food where microorganisms grow on and break down the food making the food item rich with probiotics. The toxins in the air we breathe, and the chlorine in the water we drink and bathe in, also affect the lack of probiotics in the digestive system.
As there are Pro’s and Con’s on everything, there are also Pro’s and Con’s in regards to Probiotics.
PRO: Names associated with ‘probiotics’ include Lactobacillus, and Bifidobacterium. Research shows these to treat IBS (inflammatory bowel disease), infectious diarrhea, antibiotic-related diarrhea, skin conditions such as eczema, urinary/vaginal health, oral health and etc.
Probiotics – overnight, became newly famous, and research into probiotics tells us they can be found in everything from yogurt to chocolate, sauerkraut, pickled foods, Kefir and even olives.
CON: Wikipedia – tells us benefits have been claimed – such as the probiotics ability to cut gastrointestinal discomfort, improve immune health, and constipation, but, that none of these claims are backed by scientific evidence. It is also important that you know that ‘probiotics’, like many health related supplements, whether natural or prescription, may have adverse effects such as; cause bacteria-host interactions and/or unwanted side effects in rare cases.
Probiotics as supplements can be purchased, in most health food stores, OR you can make your own. Try this great recipe – hope you like Coconut!
Thank you Joy! I am sold. I am going to make my own PROBIOTICS!
STAY SAFE AND….GOOD HEALTH TO ALL!
FYI-HEALTH TALK 