Pollution, stress and tensions have become the essential features of life, but in this race, we forget that we are punishing our bodies by eating junk that too amidst fumes. In this hectic lifestyle, science has yet again discovered a fact about probiotic or in simpler terms, for life. Probiotic food is the recently revealed way to lead a healthy life.
Microbial cultures have been used for thousands of years in food and alcoholic fermentations, and in the past century have undergone scientific scrutiny for their ability to prevent and cure a variety of diseases. This has led to the coining of the term probiotics, or "pro-life." The first clinical trials in the 1930s focused on the effect of probiotics on constipation, and research has steadily increased since then. Today probiotics are available in a variety of food products and supplements.
What is Probiotic Food?
Probiotics are live microorganisms (bacteria and yeasts) that benefit the body, when eaten or taken as a dietary supplement. The human digestive system is heavily dependent on flourishing "friendly" bacteria in our intestines. Probiotics aid the existing flora, or help repopulate your colon when it's been stripped of bacteria by antibiotics, chemotherapy or disease.
What are the types of Probiotic Bacteria?
There are many types of probiotics, including different kind of bacteria, as well as some yeasts (such as Saccharomyces boulardii). Most probiotics fall into two categories of bacteria: Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. Another popular probiotic is the Nissle strain of Escherichia coli (E. coli). Every kind of bacteria has several strains, each with its own health benefits.
What are the benefits of Probiotic Food?
The following health benefits are associated with the intake of daily doses of probiotics:
- Most of probiotic foods generate fatty acids, vitamins and other vital nutrients that improve the body's resistance against germs and viruses.
- Aids in preventing and treating colon inflammation following surgery.
- Helps to prevent eczema in youth.
- Probiotic food also counteracts the annihilation of beneficial intestinal bacteria by antibiotics.
- Increases ability to digest food.
- Therapeutic for viral respiratory tract infections by enhancing the overall immune system.
- It is also believed to be beneficial in complaints like stress, high blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Reduces lactose intolerance.
- Reduces incidence of yeast infection, vaginitis and candidiasis.
- Alleviates many common digestive disorders such as constipation and diarrhea.
- Acts as a treatment for halitosis (bad breath).
- Increases ability to synthesize vitamin B.
- Increases ability to absorb calcium.
- Promotes anti-tumor and anti-cancer activity in the body.
- Such foods help to maintain a low pH level and thereby reduce the risk of dangerous bacteria getting into the body.
- It also reduces bloating and flatulence, above and beyond curing problems like indigestion, acidity and diarrhea.
- Fighting tooth decay and gum disease.
What are the sources of Probiotics Food?
Traditional probiotic food is acid fermented dairy products, such as curd or yogurt. The first ever probiotic food introduced was adding acidophilus to the milk. This helped people develop better tolerance towards milk and also helped people who found it difficult to digest milk. Most of the probiotics food available in the market is fermented partially. Some more probiotic food items available in the market include: Cheese (soft cheeses, cottage cheeses), Pickles, Chocolate, Tofu, Tempe, Buttermilk and Soy sauce.
Nowadays, probiotics food can also be found instantly, like probiotic food supplement, powder shake drink supplement, organic snack bars, and baby food.
Some people may experience mild stomach upset, diarrhea or flatulence during the first few days of probiotic supplementation. Further, some people may be allergic to or intolerant of certain probiotic supplements, or to the probiotic food in which they are presented. However, in most cases, probiotic food is well tolerated, and at the very least, may provide one with better intestinal health.
