The Role of Probiotics in Supporting Gut Health

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system. They are often called 'good' or 'friendly' bacteria.
Category
Supplement
Where to get
Available in pharmacies, health food stores, online retailers, and some dairy products.
Prepared by Nick Harper, reviewed by Dr. David James Simpson

probiotics FAQ


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What is a probiotic & how does it work?

The term "probiotic" originally referred to microorganisms that have effects on other microorganisms. The concept of probiotics involved the notion that substances secreted by one microorganism stimulated the growth of another microorganism. The term was used again to describe tissue extracts that stimulated microbial growth.

What is a probiotic supplement?

The human body has many different types of microorganisms that live on and inside it, called the microbiome . A probiotic supplement aims to change the makeup of the microbiome to provide some health benefits. The challenge is in knowing which probiotic is helpful and for which health problem.

What are the health benefits of probiotics?

Probiotics, which are a certain type of friendly bacteria, provide health benefits when eaten. They’re often taken as supplements that are supposed to help colonize your gut with good microorganisms. This article examines the health benefits of probiotics. What are probiotics?

What are probiotics & what do they do?

For more in-depth information, see our health professional fact sheet. What are probiotics and what do they do? Probiotics are live microorganisms (such as bacteria and yeasts) that provide health benefits when you consume them. They are naturally present in some fermented foods, added to some food products, and available as dietary supplements.

probiotics References

If you want to know more about probiotics, consider exploring links below:

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