Immunity Booster: Probiotics

By Charmaine Gooden

Probiotics, which means  “for life”, are the friendly bacteria in the body.  We are actually born sterile, without any bacteria.  Over time, we develop at least 400 different species of microflora in the GI tract.  Probiotics help the immune system function well and play a role in cholesterol metabolism, aging, post-antibiotic therapy, yeast infections and urinary tract infections.

Two important strains of good bacteria are Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum; both are considered good bacteria that you want to incorporate into your intestinal tract.

Quality is key. Chose a high quality, commercial probiotic preparation rather than simply eating yogurt, which contains more transient strains that don’t attach or colonize as well as the commercial strain. Getting your required probiotic from yogurt alone isn’t enough,” says  Mardi Baum, ND of Puremedica Naturopathic Practice (www.puremedica.com). A naturopathic doctor can recommend a high quality commercial probiotic supplement.

Check Storage Directions. It’s important to check the storage directions for your probiotics supplement. Some are shelf stable, which are great for traveling. Some really require refrigeration so it’s important to keep an eye on that. If stored improperly you’ll kill all the live cultures and taking it will be pointless.  A naturopathic doctor can point you in the right direction of a good quality brand.