Probiotics to regulate digestion in children and adults

The consumption of probiotic food products in North America has been trending, but if you're like many Canadians who have questions, read on.

If you've been hearing about probiotics, you may be wondering what all the fuss is about. Just what are probiotics, and how can they be used to keep the digestive system of adults, children and even babies in balance? The consumption of probiotic food products in North America has been trending, but if you're like many Canadians who have questions, read on.

The word "probiotic" is derived from pro and biota, which means "pro life." According to the World Health Organization, probiotics are "live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host." Simply put, probiotics are bacteria. The probiotics found in some foods are similar to the bacteria naturally found in our bodies, especially those in the digestive tract.

Both good and bad bacteria exist in the body naturally and serve certain purposes that can be beneficial to humans, such as fighting off toxins found in foods and water. According to the Canadian Digestive Health Foundation, it's estimated that your gut contains as many as 100 trillion microorganisms. However, sometimes the bad bacteria begin to outnumber the good, which can cause digestive problems. Probiotics can help replenish the beneficial bacteria and restore a healthy balance in the gut.

For many people who suffer from digestive ailments, probiotics have been a godsend. Clinical studies have proven that probiotics can reduce bloating, colon cancer, constipation, diarrhoea, flatulence, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and lactose intolerance. Although probiotics have been primarily considered for adults, recent studies have shown that they can prevent and reduce colic and diarrhoea in babies and children. In a world of antibiotic-resistant bugs and an increase in allergies and other diseases in children, probiotics have shown some promise.

Many food products contain live bacteria including yogurt, buttermilk, sauerkraut and even chocolate bars. Some fermented foods, such as Turkish fermented milk (kefir), Indonesian fermented soybean cakes (tempeh) and Japanese fermented soybean paste (miso) are probiotic as well. Probiotics are also available in higher concentrations as supplements. No matter what form of probiotics you decide to buy, those with "live cultures" aren't necessarily enough. Look for products that contain Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus forms of bacteria.

The Canadian Centre for Human Microbiome and Probiotic Research continues to conduct research on the benefits of probiotics. Whether in food or supplements, probiotics are an excellent way to help keep your digestive tract in balance, reduce toxins and boost your immune system, which could ultimately lead you to a healthier and longer life.