Probably one of the most frustrating experience anyone can go through is constipation; that bugging feeling that you cannot just "go". Many people would opt to find the nearest grocery store and grab a few packs of yogurt, dietary supplements or any fermented food products with the thought that the that will replace Probiotics for constipation. This notwithstanding, what exactly are probiotics and what does it do to ease constipation?
When we talk of bacteria, we automatically think of disease causing microbes. However, a human body actually consists of both bad and good bacteria. The good bacteria that may even be beneficial in keeping a healthy digestive system are called Probiotics. They are naturally to be found in the body.
Nevertheless, when we choose to take antibiotics some good bacteria are also killed. And in this case taking in Probiotics supplement can serve as replacement to the good bacteria. Since the mid-1990s researcher grew interests in studying these microorganisms that is specially introduced into the body for its health benefits and manufacturers began putting probiotics supplement in various products such as that of yogurt and chocolates. Two commonly known probiotics serves the said purpose in the digestive system, the Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus; both compose the majority of the bacteria found in the large instestines and are commonly found in probiotic supplements.
Despite its potential capacity to ease constipation, probiotics are not yet accepted as a primary medicine for treating the said digestive concern. Probiotics do not offer immediate relief for constipation. They do however keep the digestive system working properly as they manage to keep the balance of water and electrolytes absorption in the digestive tract. This too, prevents microbes and promotes regular bowel movements. It goes without saying that probiotics serve more as a preventive element for constipation rather than an instant cure.
To add, the said two probiotics strain allows more secretion of mucous by converting bound bile salts that will later cause more water production so stool can be easily eliminated once softened. Probiotics also have the ability to produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that lower pH level in the colon and facilitates the increase of muscle contractions for smooth movement of food in the digestive tract.
However, not enough studies have been able to conclude the best specific probiotic for treating constipation. Several research conducted in different approaches came up with widely varied results, making the formulation of a solid recommendation difficult. In addition, people react differently to these microorganisms that is specially introduced into the body for its health benefits.
What is effective for a person may not work for another. So until any solid evidence has been proven on probiotics, it is best to experiment on your own; and since there are no side effects for these microorganisms, trying them is relatively safe.
If you wish to find probiotics, they are present on cultured or fermented food and dairy products such as yogurt, buttermilk, soy drinks, and miso among many others. The probiotics or good bacteria are naturally produced in some food, and are added as supplements in others. If you wish to have it through dietary supplements, many are available in drugstores and supermarkets. If uncertain, a knowledgeable dietician will save the day for you.
When we talk of bacteria, we automatically think of disease causing microbes. However, a human body actually consists of both bad and good bacteria. The good bacteria that may even be beneficial in keeping a healthy digestive system are called Probiotics. They are naturally to be found in the body.
Nevertheless, when we choose to take antibiotics some good bacteria are also killed. And in this case taking in Probiotics supplement can serve as replacement to the good bacteria. Since the mid-1990s researcher grew interests in studying these microorganisms that is specially introduced into the body for its health benefits and manufacturers began putting probiotics supplement in various products such as that of yogurt and chocolates. Two commonly known probiotics serves the said purpose in the digestive system, the Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus; both compose the majority of the bacteria found in the large instestines and are commonly found in probiotic supplements.
Despite its potential capacity to ease constipation, probiotics are not yet accepted as a primary medicine for treating the said digestive concern. Probiotics do not offer immediate relief for constipation. They do however keep the digestive system working properly as they manage to keep the balance of water and electrolytes absorption in the digestive tract. This too, prevents microbes and promotes regular bowel movements. It goes without saying that probiotics serve more as a preventive element for constipation rather than an instant cure.
To add, the said two probiotics strain allows more secretion of mucous by converting bound bile salts that will later cause more water production so stool can be easily eliminated once softened. Probiotics also have the ability to produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that lower pH level in the colon and facilitates the increase of muscle contractions for smooth movement of food in the digestive tract.
However, not enough studies have been able to conclude the best specific probiotic for treating constipation. Several research conducted in different approaches came up with widely varied results, making the formulation of a solid recommendation difficult. In addition, people react differently to these microorganisms that is specially introduced into the body for its health benefits.
What is effective for a person may not work for another. So until any solid evidence has been proven on probiotics, it is best to experiment on your own; and since there are no side effects for these microorganisms, trying them is relatively safe.
If you wish to find probiotics, they are present on cultured or fermented food and dairy products such as yogurt, buttermilk, soy drinks, and miso among many others. The probiotics or good bacteria are naturally produced in some food, and are added as supplements in others. If you wish to have it through dietary supplements, many are available in drugstores and supermarkets. If uncertain, a knowledgeable dietician will save the day for you.