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Friendly Bacteria

Writer: Cynthia A. Barrington, BCHHP, CNHPCynthia A. Barrington, BCHHP, CNHP

Understanding the role of friendly bacteria in our overall health is important.


Probiotics

Probiotics are live microorganisms that help maintain the natural balance of organisms (microflora) in the intestines. Probiotics may be used to:

  • help with other causes of diarrhea

  • help prevent infections in the digestive tract

  • help control immune response (inflammation), as in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

  • probiotics are being studied for benefits in colon cancer, skin infections, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)


Prebiotics

Prebiotics are non-digestible food ingredients that stimulate the growth of one or more bacteria in the colon. They are food for the good bacteria.


Synbiotics (or symbiotics)

Synbiotics are a combination of probiotics and prebiotics.


Resources

Reinhard, Tonia. Superfoods: The Healthiest Foods on the Planet. Buffalo, NY: Firefly, 2010. Print.

"Probiotics." WebMD. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Aug. 2013.


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MEDICAL DISCLAIMER

Cynthia A. Barrington is not a physician and the relationship between her and her clients is not as prescriber and patient but as educator and client. This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician. It is fully the client's choice whether or not to take advantage of the information Cynthia presents. Naturopathy, homeopathy, flower essences, and any other recommendations do not "treat" illnesses; they address the entire person as a matter of wholeness that is an educational process, not a medical one. In order to be treated or diagnosed, Cynthia believes the advice of a holistic physician is in order. Never stop taking prescription medications without first consulting your physician. Consult your physician before starting a fitness program or taking supplements.

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