Thursday 25 October 2012

A Brief Intro of Probiotics


Probiotics are the live microbes that are on contemplation to be valuable for host organisms. According to world health organization, their definition is "Live microorganisms when administered in the adequate amounts present a fitness benefit for host". Bifidobacteria and lactic acid bacteria are the kinds of microbes which are most commonly used as probiotics. Sometimes bacilli and yeasts are also used. They are used at times alones and sometimes with antibiotics for treatment of bladder infections. Bladder infections are caused by bacteria mainly by E. coli which are better treated using probiotics as they strengthen human immune system to give to the bladder from bacteria causing infections.

Forms available in market: Supplements containing probiotics are available in market. They contain lactobacillus acidophilus. But not to be used and considered unsafe in pregnancy. Also it is not safe for persons having weak immune system. Another negative point is that lactose intolerant suffer disturbance in their gastro intestinal tract. These supplements are available both in liquid and tablet form. Labeling helps you to understand the dosage suitable for you. In case of gastro intestinal disturbance reduce your dose to relax your stomach. Split the dose over the day rather taking it at one time.

Tips to use: Continue their use until your urinary tract infection gets treated or if you are having intermittent urinary tract infections then add it in your daily routine. Always drink as much water as you can in order to ensure complete removal of injurious bacteria from the body in the form of urine. Always try to store probiotics in the refrigerator to retain its effectiveness. Beside their use in urinary tract infections they are also used at many other places too. So your job is to take probiotics according to your need and avoid over dosage because it may disturbs your GIT.

Friendly bacteria: They are called friendly bacteria as they boost up human immune system and fight against bad bacteria of the human body that can produce disease. Inside the body, probiotics produce unfriendly atmosphere for the bad bacteria of the body. They are used in combo with antibiotics many times. Antibiotics can’t distinguish between good and bad bacteria. Kill both good and bad bacteria so the balance of normal bacteria will be disturbed which is maintained by lactobacillus. They are available in tablet, powder, capsules and sachet forms. Fortified foods and fermented dairy products also contain them.

Uses: They are used for many purposes. Vaginal infections, diarrhea prevention, maintaining balance of friendly bacteria in body, treatment of chronic constipation, improves lactose tolerance in lactose intolerant, reduces risks of pollen allergies, betters digestion, ulcerative colitis and crohn’s disease, improves immune system, treats high levels of cholesterol and reduces chances of childhood eczema. Probiotics are also found in breast milk, tomatoes, honey, onions, bananas, barley, wheat and garlic. Milk and yogurts containing live strains of lacto bacillus are also useful for treatment. Dried and live both strains are available. They are best stored in refrigerator but some types can also be kept without refrigeration so always check storage conditions before buying.

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