For a Healthy Life: Probiotics

What is Probiotics?

Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms, including bacteria and yeast, that contribute to human health. They are commonly used to improve gut flora, support the digestive system, and strengthen the immune system. Probiotics, often referred to as "good bacteria," consist of live microorganisms that can be found in various areas of the body.

Probiotics have been defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as "live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host."

Key characteristics of probiotics include being of human origin, resistant to stomach acidity and bile acids, able to survive in the digestive tract, capable of adhering to the intestinal epithelium, adapting to the natural flora, producing antimicrobial substances like bacteriocins, being non-pathogenic and non-toxic, and having positive effects on host health.

Benefits of Probiotics:

Probiotics offer numerous potential benefits, including regulating the digestive system, strengthening the immune system, reducing allergic reactions, and balancing the intestinal flora.

Most Common Types of Probiotics:

The most common types of probiotics include:

• Lactobacillus: This bacteria, found in many probiotic products, is typically present in fermented dairy products and can proliferate in the intestines, providing benefits to the digestive system.
• Bifidobacterium: Also commonly found in the intestines, this bacteria supports intestinal health and is present in many probiotic supplements.
• Saccharomyces boulardii: This yeast species can offer protection against digestive system infections and support the immune system.

Potential Probiotic Sources in the Diet:

Potential probiotic sources in the diet include traditional fermented foods such as yogurt, cheese, kefir, kumis, boza, and commercial probiotic supplements. Additionally, some products like milk and dairy, dairy desserts, fruit and vegetable juices, breakfast cereals, beverages, chocolate, and baby formulas may have probiotics added to them.

General Health Effects of Probiotics:

Probiotics have various positive effects on general health, including:

• Rebalancing the immune response through immunomodulation.
• Protective and regulatory effects in inflammatory bowel diseases.
• Reducing the risk of allergic diseases such as allergy, atopic dermatitis, and asthma.
• Preventing diarrhea and constipation by balancing bacterial colonization in the gastrointestinal system.
• Influencing metabolism to lower blood cholesterol levels and reducing colon cancer risk by decreasing colon mutagenic reactions.

Probiotics, especially by strengthening the protective intestinal barrier, have a positive impact on gut microbiota, aiding in maintaining the physiological balance in the intestines and supporting digestive system regulation.

Are There Any Drawbacks to Regular Probiotic Use?

Beneficial bacteria can be acquired through a healthy diet and supplements. The use of probiotics as a supplement provides high efficiency in taking planned preventive measures against specific identified issues. While paying attention to your diet, taking the necessary supplements can significantly contribute to maintaining a healthy body.

Can Expectant Mothers and New Mothers Use Probiotics?

Probiotics are generally safe dietary supplements. There is no data suggesting that probiotics cross from the mother to the baby during pregnancy or cause any issues such as miscarriage or developmental disorders. However, it is advisable for pregnant and breastfeeding women to consult with a doctor before starting any food supplements.

What to Consider When Children Use Probiotics?

Enterogermina, a probiotic supplement, is characterized by its lack of additives, being odorless, tasteless, and flavorless, making it easy for children to consume. The content of the supplement is crucial for children, whose body structures differ from adults. The use of probiotics is not recommended in children with any immunosuppressive diseases.

Spc. RD.. Elham Alavi

Dietitian and Nutrition Specialist