Probiotics

Probiotics refer to live, viable organisms which are used for therapeutic and nutritional purposes. A probiotic preparation should have 10^6 viable organisms per gram of preparation.

The organisms which are used as probiotics are:

·     Bifidobacterium infantis

·     Bifidum

·     Lactobacillus acidophilus

·     Lactobacillus casei

·     Lactobacillus plantarum

·     Lactobacillus brevis

The characteristics of effective probiotics are:

1.  They should be able to survive through the digestive system.

2.  They should be able to attach to the intestinal epithelium.

3.  They should be able to maintain good viability

4.  They should be able to utilize the nutrients taken in a normal diet.

5.  They should be nonpathogenic, nontoxic and anti-inflammatory.

The health benefits of probiotics are :

1.  In the digestive tract:

·     They act against Helicobacter pylori which causes ulcers.

·     They enhance lactose digestion

·     They enhance intestinal immunity.

2. Intestinal microflora:

·     They improve the balance between microbial population.

·     They help in colonization of intestinal tract.

·     In case of diarrhea: they help in the prevention or treatment of acute diarrhea, e.g., bacterial/ rotavirus diarrhea.

·     Prevention of antibiotic-induced diarrhea. E.g., Amoxicillin is given along with sporlac which has Lactobacillus.

Other health benefits include reduction of serum cholesterol, reduction of hypertension and improve the immunity.

Probiotic foods available in the market are :

·     Yakult - it has Lactobacillus casei, strain- Shirota.

·     Good belly - probiotic coconut water which has Lactobacillus plantarum.

·     Vive - probiotic digestive wellness cereal has Lactobacillus acidophilus.

·     Yogurt - it contains S.thermophilus and Lactobacillus bacteria. It should have a live and active culture in it.