When hearing the word microorganisms, one may think of germs that are harmful to the body. But in reality, microorganisms are small living things that can be found in various environments. Whether it be soil, water, plants, animals, or even in the human body. Microorganisms can be both beneficial and harmful. Probiotics are microorganisms and yeasts in a group that are beneficial to the body. When present in the right amount, they help the body’s systems function normally, especially the digestive system and the immune system, which help prevent or treat certain diseases.
Probiotics are currently produced in many forms, from food, drinks, to various dietary supplements. Microorganisms are generally divided into several groups. But only certain strains in certain groups are probiotics.
Examples of probiotics that are commonly used as ingredients in various products and are relatively safe to consume include:
Lactobacillus
Lactobacillus is a microorganism that lives in the digestive system, urinary tract and genitals. There are more than 50 strains of Lactobacillus. Studies have found that some strains can relieve or prevent intestinal health problems such as irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS ), antibiotic-induced diarrhea, Clostridium Difficile-induced diarrhea, traveler’s diarrhea, lactose intolerance and lactose deficiency.In addition, lactobacillus may be beneficial for other health problems, such as yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, ทางเข้า ufabet or other skin disorders, such as cold sores, dermatitis, or canker sores.
Bifidobacteria
Bifidobacteria are microorganisms that live in the large intestine. There are about 30 species of Bifidobacteria found in the digestive system of infants. Especially infants who drink breast milk. Bifidobacteria are considered very beneficial to infants. Studies have found that some species of Bifidobacteria help control blood sugar and fat, relieve irritable bowel syndrome and its symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and digestive disorders.
Saccharomyces Boulardii
This microorganism, known simply as S. boulardii, is the only probiotic that is classified as a yeast. Some studies have found it to be effective in preventing and treating diarrhea caused by a variety of factors, including antibiotic side effects, traveler’s diarrhea, recurrent Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) infections, H. pylori infections, and may also have an impact on acne.
Streptococcus Thermophilus
Streptococcus thermophilus is a microorganism that helps produce the enzyme lactase, which helps digest lactose in milk for people with lactose intolerance. This condition often causes diarrhea, stomach pain, and bloating.
There are many types of foods that contain probiotics, but the best known are sour dairy products or certain fermented foods, such as sour milk, yogurt, and kimchi. There are also other fermented foods that are rich in probiotics but have not been studied as much, such as miso, tempeh , sauerkraut, sourdough bread, and pickles.
In addition to consuming probiotics, we should also consume prebiotics, which are food for probiotics. Prebiotics are a type of dietary fiber (Fiber) that is abundant in vegetables and fruits. If we eat foods that contain both probiotics and prebiotics together regularly. It may help the intestines to be balanced, work better, and reduce intestinal problems even more.
At present, there is a production of Synbiotics or dietary supplements that contain probiotics and prebiotics combined to meet the needs of those who want to eat both types of food but may not have time to eat. Using Synbiotic products may help the body benefit. It is also convenient and saves time. However, buyers should consult a doctor or pharmacist before use for safety.