Wizard of Vitamins

Probiotics Vitamin

What is Probiotics?

Probiotic bacteria favorably alter the intestinal microflora balance, inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, promote good digestion, boost immune function, and increase resistance to infection. People with flourishing intestinal colonies of beneficial bacteria are better equipped to fight the growth of disease-causing bacteria. Lactobacilli and bifidobacteria maintain a healthy balance of intestinal flora by producing organic compounds such as lactic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and acetic acid that increase the acidity of the intestine and inhibit the reproduction of many harmful bacteria. Probiotic bacteria also produce substances called bacteriocins, which act as natural antibiotics to kill undesirable microorganisms.

Probiotics in Diets

Beneficial bacteria present in fermented dairy foods namely live culture yogurt have been used as a folk remedy for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. Yogurt is the traditional source of beneficial bacteria. However, different brands of yogurt can vary greatly in their bacteria strain and potency. Some (particularly frozen) yogurts do not contain any live bacteria. Supplements in powder, liquid extract, capsule, or tablet form containing beneficial bacteria are other sources of probiotics.

Probiotics Medicinal Treatments

Diarrhea Tooth decay (Lactobacillus GG) Vaginitis Yeast infection Canker sores Colic (Bifidobacterium lactis and Streptococcus thermophilus) Crohn’s disease(Saccharomyces boulardii) Eczema Food allergies HIV support  (Saccharomyces boulardii) Immune function Infection Pancreatitis (acute) (Lactobacillus plantarum) Ulcerative colitis Chronic candidiasis Stress

Known Consequences of Probiotics Deficiency

People using antibiotics, eating a poor diet, or suffering from diarrhea are more likely to have depleted colonies of friendly bacteria.

Probiotics Recommended Dosages

The amount of probiotics necessary to replenish the intestine varies according to the extent of microbial depletion and the presence of harmful bacteria. One to two billion colony forming units (CFUs) per day of acidophilus is considered to be the minimum amount for the healthy maintenance of intestinal microflora. Some Saccharomyces boulardii research has used 500 mg taken four times per day.

Probiotics Side Effects

There are at least nine case reports of severe, invasive (internal) fungal infections developing in people treated with the yeast organism Saccharomyces boulardii. All of these people were debilitated or had impaired immune function prior to receiving Saccharomyces boulardii. No such adverse reactions have been reported with other probiotic supplements or in people with normal immune systems. Acidophilus and bifidobacteria may manufacture B vitamins, including niacin, folic acid, biotin, and vitamin B6. Certain medicines may interact with probiotics. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.