By: Bonnie Presti

Probiotics are live microorganisms considered to be the body’s friendly or good bacteria. In literal terms, probiotics mean “for life”. These good bacteria are part of the trillions of microorganisms that inhabit our bodies. Probiotics are used to increase the number of beneficial bacteria in your digestive tract. While both “good” and “bad” bacteria are necessary, optimally we will have a balance of 85% “good” bacteria and 15% of the “bad” bacteria. Some of the many benefits of taking daily probiotics include:

• improved absorption & digestion
• produces substances that prevent infection (UTI, E. coli, etc.)
• strengthened immune system
• improved bowel movements
• reduces allergies
• inhibits or destroys toxins released by “bad” bacteria
• reverses damage from antibiotics
• promotes women’s health
• prevents UTI’s

Probiotics are frequently used to treat: IBS or IBD, infectious diarrhea, antibiotic-related diarrhea, skin conditions (eczema), urinary and vaginal health. There are numerous strains of probiotics and your provider will select the proper blend based upon your unique requirements. For those who are in good overall health, consider taking a daily (pharmaceutical grade) supplement that contains 20 billion organisms. Stop by one of our offices today to pick up your bottle of probiotics.