Probiotics - What are they?

Signs that the balance is upset:

·        Digestive problems

·        Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

·        Thrush, candida

·        Constipation, diarrhoea

·        Urinary tract disorders 

How does the balance get upset?  

·        Over use of antibiotics and drugs such as aspirin, NSAID’s, steroids 

·        Poor diet low in fibre and fresh fruits and vegetables, high in fat and refined foods

·        Stress

·        Infection of the gut

When are probiotics useful?

·        If there are signs of upset balance as above

·        If you are taking a course of antibiotics

·        If you have had an attack of holiday diarrhoea

·        If you intend to travel to places with poor hygiene and unfamiliar foods

Take a course of probiotics for at least a week - or longer for a chronic condition 

Probiotic supplements - which to buy?

·        Look on the label for those containing acidophilus, bulgaricus, bifidum

·        Choose one with the highest bacteria count – 100 million to 5 billion viable organisms per capsule

·        Make sure the capsules have an enteric coating to ensure that a good number will reach the bowel

·        Most probiotic supplements must be kept in the fridge - make sure you store them correctly

·        Look for a new generation of probiotics such as those made by Solgar, CultureCare, Beneflora which do not need fridge storage and are useful for travelling

Milk-based probiotics

These are milk-based drinks and bio yogurts - Yakult, Actimel, ProViva, Danone etc.   Which you choose depends on taste as some are sweeter than others. Sugar helps preserve the bacteria. Choose ‘live’ yoghurts as many products are sterilised to ensure longer shelf life.   

Which are the natural probiotics?

·        In all cultures, milk is a basic food, and it is the most common probiotic, ensuring the formation of good bacteria, especially when consumed in various forms of curdled milk - in products like yoghurt, cottage cheese, buttermilk.

·        Fermented vegetables such as sauerkraut, soybeans (miso, tempeh, tamari) are also natural probiotics

·        Unleavened sourdough breads create a favourable digestive condition and a healthy gut flora  

To find out more about irritable bowel syndrome, contact the IBS Network on www.ibsnetwork.org.uk , helpline: monday-friday  6pm-8pm 01543 492 192, address: IBS Network, Northern General Hospital, Sheffield S5 7AU 

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If in any doubt about any of the information covered in health related articles and it's relevance for you, consult your GP

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