When you think of bacteria, the thought of actually eating it on purpose may sound a little disgusting--especially when you think of what some bacteria can do to your insides including make you sick, hospitalized or even worse.
But, did you know that not all bacteria are bad? According to scientists, we should be eating more bacteria--the good type, that is.
What are Good Bacteria?
Science shows diets containing certain kinds of "good" live bacteria known as probiotics, found in fermented foods or supplements, can help treat or prevent a number of common health problems, like acne, allergies and various digestive conditions.
This good bacteria acts like the military of your body and fights off the “bad” bacteria. According to Dr. Frank Lipman, a celebrity holistic medicine professional, a healthy person’s body should contain around 100 trillion “good” bacteria at any given time.
You May Also Like
This bacteria assists with keeping your immune system in tip-top shape, and in return, the rest of your body says 'thank you' by having clear skin, a properly functioning digestive system and more.
Before we get into it, here are six common strains of probiotics that you’ll find on food and supplement labels.
B. animalis: This strain is an ingredient in Dannon yogurt’s Activia product. It’s helpful in aiding digestion and fighting food-borne bacteria. It’s also thought to boost your immune system.
B. breve: This strain lives in your digestive tract and in the vagina. In both places, it fights off infection-causing bacteria or yeast. It helps your body absorb nutrients by fermenting sugars. It also breaks down plant fiber to make it digestible.
You May Also Like
B. lactis: This is derived from raw milk. It’s an ingredient in Nestle’s probiotic infant formula, called Good Start Natural Cultures. It also serves as a starter for:
- buttermilk
- cottage cheese
- other cheeses
B. longum: This strain lives in your gastrointestinal tract. It helps break down carbohydrates and also can be an antioxidant.
L. acidophilus: This strain is found in the small intestine and in the vagina. It helps digestion and may help fight off vaginal bacteria. You can find it in yogurt and fermented soy products, such as miso.
L. reuteri: This strain is found in the intestine and mouth. One study showed that it decreased the oral bacteria that cause tooth decay. It’s also thought to help the digestive system.
Types of Bacteria that are good for you
According to the Mayo Clinic, here are 9 strains of beneficial bacteria and their major reported health benefits which can be found in some fermented foods, such as yogurt, kefir, soy products, and pickles.
1. Lactobacillus Acidophilus
Reduces abdominal pain and bloating symptoms. This bacteria also supports a healthy immune digestive system.
2. Lactobacillus Plantarum
Reduces the risk factors of cardiovascular disease, especially in smokers.
3. Lactobacillus Casei
Alleviates symptoms of occasional diarrhea and encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria.
4. Lactobacillus Rhamnosus
Calms skin irritation.
5. Lactobacillus Salivarius
Protects the intestinal barrier against damage during the digestive process and reduces bad breath.
6. Lactobacillus Brevis
Improves inflamed gum conditions.
7. Bifidobacterium Longum
Improves symptoms associated with gluten intolerances.
8. Bifidobacterium Bifidum
Alleviates inflammation in the large intestine.
9. Streptococcus Thermophilus
Reduces cardiovascular disease risk factors together with Lactobacillus Rhamnosus and Lactobacillus Acidophilus.
Get Probiotics Like A Pro
So, what are the sources to add these probiotics to your diet? Yogurt is one of the most popular natural food sources to get them, but there are many others like sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, tempeh, kefir, pickles, natto, buttermilk, and gouda cheese.
However, to get all 10 of these at once, look into supplements such as these.
