Probiotics are healthy bacteria that live in the gut keeping it healthy and work wonders on the digestive system. They are recognised and often prescribed by doctors to help with digestive problems. Live yogurt is the most typical form but there are other forms too, kefir being one of them. (We have a recipe from Lindsey Johnson, writing at the HelloGlow blog, so jump to the end if you know all about probiotics.)

Mary Jo DiLonardo writing at WebMD says …

Many types of bacteria are classified as probiotics. They all have different benefits, but most come from two groups. Ask your doctor about which might best help you.

Lactobacillus. This may be the most common probiotic. It’s the one you’ll find in yogurt and other fermented foods. Different strains can help with diarrhea and may help with people who can’t digest lactose, the sugar in milk.

Bifidobacterium. You can also find it in some dairy products. It may help ease the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and some other conditions.

Probiotics are used to treat IBS, inflammatory bowel disease, infectious diarrhea and antibiotic-related diarrhea. Some research shows they help with eczema, urinary and vaginal health, preventing allergies and colds and oral health.

As always, check with your doctor for more information.

Turn to the Next Page for the 1st of our probiotic smoothie recipes  …

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