The word "probiotic" simply means "for life" and the term "probiotics" is used to describe conventional foods or dietary supplements that contain these "friendly", "beneficial" or "good" bacteria. Most probiotic bacteria belong to the same genus and species as the microbial populations found in the human body-often similar to some bacterial species found in the intestinal tracts of breast fed infants, for instance-but the microorganisms found in the body are not necessarily probiotic microbes. In order to be called probiotics, these microorganisms need to be tested and shown to provide a benefit to the human body.
The scientific definition of a "probiotic" is more technical. Probiotics are alive; they're living microorganisms, such as certain types of Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium. When they are consumed in sufficient quantities, they, and the food in which they are contained, can benefit a variety of our body functions beyond basic nutrition alone.
Our bodies play host to bacterial microorganisms commonly referred to as microflora or "gut flora" that are essential to our well-being. Unfortunately, our naturally occurring "gut flora" often falls out of balance because of factors ranging from stress and antibiotics intake to aging and diet.
Conventional Foods and Supplements Containing Probiotics Can help Replenish Our "Beneficial" Microbes
Consuming probiotic foods, which range from yogurt and cultured dairy products to certain fermented soy and juice drinks, can be beneficial in several ways. Some probiotic foods may help support our natural immune system by providing a regular source of "good" bacteria for the intestinal tract, some might act as a nutrient-rich source of calcium for those of us who are lactose-intolerant; other probiotic foods may help correct an imbalance of good to bad bacteria in the intestinal tract.
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