Probiotics Paper Example

Introduction

The human body is full of various distinct bacteria, some of which are good while others are bad. The term probiotics are widely used to describe the type of live microorganisms as well as yeasts that have significant health benefits, especially for the digestive system (Clevelandclinic.org, 2019). In other words, probiotics are primarily called beneficial or helpful bacteria, which provide compelling benefits for both the body and brain. Also, they may help to reduce depression, enhance a better-looking skin and promote heart health.

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The Four Main families of Probiotics

Probiotics are mainly categorized into four major groups all of which have diverse health benefits. The most common types of probiotics include the lactobacillus and bifidobacterium both of which are commonly referred to as "good bacteria" mainly used for constipation problems and effectively assist in the treatment of BV or Bacterial Vaginosis (Tufts University, 2011). The other type is the Saccharomyces, which is yeast found in probiotics and helps to treat diarrhea and other digestive problems and lastly the streptococcus groups of probiotics that is hugely consumed in fermented dairy products.

Foods that provide these Bacteria

There are an extensive number of foods that contain good bacteria that are super healthy while other bacteria are processed by being added to food. Specific examples of such foods include fermented and unfermented milk, soybeans, miso, yogurt, and tempeh (Tufts University, 2011). The only type of food that I am unfamiliar with is the miso and tempeh, but from research, they are both obtained from fermented soybeans.

Conditions under which Supplementation with Probiotics is Recommended

Different probiotic supplementation can be recommended to treat various health issues if an individual cannot take probiotics in its organic form. For instance, they might be recommended for conditions such as ulcerative colitis, diarrhea, and IBS. Other significant health conditions that can be treated with probiotics include colorectal cancer, acid reflux, reducing the recurrence of the bladder and spastic colon (Clevelandclinic.org, 2019). Furthermore, the use of probiotics for health purposes cannot be rejected as a result of cost primarily because a wide variety of food consumed by people either processed or unprocessed contain probiotics (Tufts University, 2011). Also, because most probiotics are latticed acids, their levels in the large intestine can be measured to determine the need for supplementation substantially by checking the fecal PH.

Potential Contradictions or Interactions of Probiotics

Just like any other kind of medication, a person should be physically examined by a doctor to determine if they are healthy enough to take probiotics (Tufts University, 2011). However, there are no specific contraindications or interactions associated with probiotics, and thus they would not be a threat to any nutritional status. The only side effects experienced by individuals taking probiotics are bloating and gas, but and as stated in the article "Are Probiotics Right for you Weighing the evidence on how good for you these good bacteria really are," the elderly are highly recommended to see a doctor before consuming any probiotics mainly because their nutritional status are susceptible to threats.

Conclusion

Overall, probiotics have significantly proven to be effective in helping to improve the health of the digestive system by reducing the number of harmful bacteria in the gut and providing the body with good or beneficial bacteria.

References

Clevelandclinic.org (2019). "Probiotics" Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/14598-probiotics

Tufts University (2011). Are Probiotics Right for You? Weighing the evidence on how good for you these good bacteria really are.