Probiotics in Intestinal Disorders

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Studies have shown that an imbalance in the intestinal microflora (“dysbiosis”) may be an important factor in the development of symptoms for some individuals with IBS. For example, the composition of the intestinal microflora may affect the ability of the colon to contract and relax.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
There is growing evidence that intestinal microflora play an important role in the development of IBD. Experts believe that manipulation of the intestinal microflora may be important in helping to manage ulcerative colitis and pouchitis.

Bacterial Infections
Bifidobacteria produce substances such as bacteriocins, peroxides, organic acids such as lactic acid and acetic acid, thus reducing the intestinal pH, that may result in antagonizing the growth of certain microorganisms ( such as E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, Schigella and yeast), and therefore helping the normal function of the intestinal flora.

Studies also suggest that the regular ingestion of Lactobacillus-containing probiotics may have an effect on Helicobacter pylori that may cause stomach or intestinal ulcers and stomach cancer.

Constipation
Probiotics in the colon can convert undigested carbohydrates to short-chain fatty acids, which reduces the pH of the colon that will result in an increase in stool volume and weight, thereby helping with regular bowel movements.

Diarrhea
Probiotics have been shown to reduce antibiotic-associated diarrhea and children's acute infectious diarrhea such as rotavirus diarrhea.

Allergies
Probiotics may affect the production of inflammation-producing cells, impact gut barrier function, regulate the secretion of inflammatory mediators, and help promote the proper development of the immune system.

Why not yogurt or kefir?

You may be thinking why should I buy a probiotic capsule when I can just eat yogurt or kefir? This is a good question! Here is why….

1) No matter how many lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium were present at the time of manufacturing, there's no guarantee how many bacteria is left at the time you eat the yogurt/kefir, there is no probiotic potency guarantee.

2) When you eat yogurt there is nothing protecting the “live and active cultures” from harsh stomach acids. So the amounts that actually make it down to the intestinal tract may be very unpredictable.

3) This will add unnecessary extra calories and lots of sugar that your body may not need

4) Lactose in these products may cause more symptoms in people with irritable bowel syndrome or lactose intolerance.

5) More expensive