7. Bacteria in the gut weigh nearly as much as a brick. Most of this sits in the lower part of the intestines. When bacteria die off, they travel down. As a result, 60 to 80 percent of our daily bowel movements contain dead bacteria. That’s why it’s important to keep it cycling out, regularly. Again, probiotics can help keep things in working order. Maintaining a healthy gut flora encourages enzyme activity that can also help prevent tumors.
8. Considering that probiotics are immune supportive, they may even be beneficial in aiding with the treatment of cancer as well as decreasing the risks of certain ones.
9. Antibiotics are known to kill off good bacteria. Therefore, replenishing with a probiotic supplement can prevent associated problems, such as diarrhea, among others.
10. Here is an example of how friendly bacteria fight an infection. First, it surrounds and neutralizes the virus, and then forms a barrier to prevent it from passing into the bloodstream. If the virus happens to get through the first two defenses, the cells in the intestines communicate with other cells throughout the body to help neutralize the virus before it can cause damage.
What To Look For In A Probiotic
• Ideally, the culture count in the probiotic should be at least 15 billion per serving. Cultures are the total amount of friendly bacteria in one serving of the product. Unlike other supplement measures of milligrams, micrograms, and ounces, culture counts are in the billions. We have trillions of bacteria cells in our digestive tract.
• At least ten different strains of live cultures in the product is best. Strains refer to the types of bacteria. This should include both Lacto and Bifido types. These should all be distinctly listed on the side of the box or bottle. This is important since we are all unique and have different strains of bacteria in our bodies. Some strains will work better for one person than it will for another, so it is good to have a variety.
• Look for a delayed-release type probiotic. If not delayed, the bacteria will enter the digestive tract all at once, with most being destroyed by stomach acid right away. Purchasing a delayed-release product will reduce this from happening, and allow the beneficial bacteria to survive while releasing slowly.
• A good probiotic will state the potency of the product at the time of expiration. It will clearly be written somewhere on the label. This will guarantee the strength of the product through the end date.
• Many people eat yogurt every day to gain healthful bacteria, yet this isn’t sufficient. The beneficial live cultures in yogurt just aren’t strong enough to restore balance to the digestive tract. Also, when eating yogurt, check the sugar count, as many have added sugar. When sugar is reduced, it strengthens the digestive tract and assists in reducing illness. So this can, in turn, defeat the purpose of eating the yogurt in the first place.
In Summation
We now know that we lose beneficial bacteria as we age, especially the Bifido, so it’s important to replenish it. We want at least 15 billion live cultures per serving and at least ten various strains of bacteria. A delayed-release product, with the potency, indicated at the time of expiration, is most desirable. A good quality probiotic can go a long way to keeping our digestive tract and immune system up to par.
Visit Life Extension Foundation to learn more about achieving a healthier lifestyle and to shop for your supply of supplements to get you there!
Resource:Probiotics: One of The Most Important Supplements You Can Take, by Dr. Mercola
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