Benefits of Probiotic Drinks for Digestion and Health

The phrase “To your health!” can be taken literally when it comes to probiotic drinks.

Many of these beverages contain billions of bacteria which are known to be beneficial to human health.

These probiotic microorganisms live naturally within the gastrointestinal system of mammals, working in a variety of ways to promote better health, immune function and wellbeing. In fact, probiotics are even being studied for anti-cancer treatment and longevity therapies.

Although probiotics supplements are available in many forms like capsules, chewable tablets, powders and foods, many people opt for the simplicity of probiotic drinks because they are quick, tasty, healthy and easy to fit into a busy schedule.

They can work as a quick snack between meals and some probiotic bacteria have even been shown to promote weight loss.

Probiotics

Digestive Supplement

Gut Health

Digestion

Immune Function

How It Works:

• Supports a healthy immune system & microflora
• Promotes digestion & nutrient absoprtion
• Combats pathogenic bacteria; Improves metabolism

Dosage:

Between 1 - 10 Billion CFUs per day

Safety:

Rated Likely Safe

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Why Take Probiotics Regularly?

Probiotic bacteria keep the intestinal tract functioning properly. In addition, because the immune system is intricately linked to the digestive tract, these healthy microbes may promote wellness and healing throughout the system.

They protect the gut from unfriendly bacteria which can cause certain digestive disorders, infections and skin disorders.

Many probiotic drinks, like Yakult and kefir, contain some form of fermented dairy product like milk or yogurt. Dairy products are useful for probiotics because many beneficial bacteria thrive on lactose, which is abundant in dairy foods. However, there are also non-dairy alternatives for individuals who are lactose intolerant.

When choosing a probiotic drink, check the species of probiotic contained in the beverage, as well as the number of living microorganisms present at the time of consumption.

Different species of bacteria can confer different health benefits, and selecting a beverage with adequate quantities will determine the benefits experienced by the individual.

Ensuring there are enough live organisms contained in the drink impacts the ability of the bacteria to out-compete unfriendly bacteria in the intestines and colon.

Popular Probiotic Drinks

Many juices, milks and teas are available containing Lactobacillus acidophilus and various Bifidobacterium species which are known to benefit human health. Common probiotic drinks on the market today include:

DanActive and Actimel are the brand names of Danon Company’s probiotic yogurt drink. Available in most supermarkets, this probiotic drink contains a patented bacterial culture known as Lactobacillus casei DN-114001 which Danon markets under names like Immunitas and Defensis.

Each bottle has 10 billion live cultures. Studies suggest that DanActive may help individuals avoid antibiotic-related diarrhea, and may also limit the spread of Clostridium difficile in elderly patients.

Yakult is a probiotic dairy drink which is quite popular in over 30 countries. It is made by fermenting skim milk with a special strain of Lactobacillus casei Shirota.

Each 65 milliliter bottle contains 6.5 billion cultures of the bacteria. The manufacturer and users rely on an array of studies demonstrating the health benefits of Yakult. Those benefits include maintaining a healthy gut flora, regulating bowel habits, relieving constipation and modulation of the immune system.

Kefir is a traditional probiotic drink prepared by adding kefir grains to milk.

Kefir grains are not really grains, but instead a fermentation “starter” containing bacteria, yeast, proteins, sugars and fats. The resulting liquid resembles a thin yogurt.

A variety of probiotic bacteria is found in traditionally brewed kefir products, along with many B vitamins (including B-12) and minerals. Individuals who are lactose intolerant are often able to drink kefir even though it comes from dairy products.

Kombucha is sweetened and fermented black or green tea. It is claimed to have several health benefits, though, these claims continue to be controversial and are not generally supported by scientific evidence.

This probiotic drink is fermented by adding symbiotic colonies of bacteria and yeast (also referred to as SCOBY) to the tea.

Though Kombucha tea is thought to be generally harmless and safe, it has been linked in rare cases to serious side effects and even death.

Benefits

Probiotic drinks are a good choice as a snack or as an adjunct to a daily health regimen already rich in probiotic microorganisms. These drinks can aid in the maintenance of good digestion, promote better immune function and improve transit time from mouth to bowel.

For individuals without symptoms of digestive distress such as constipation, bloating, diarrhea or abdominal discomfort, probiotic drinks may be a healthy means of adding good bacteria while not over-supplementing.

Individuals experiencing symptoms of digestive disorders like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or Crohn’s Disease will need to consume 3 or more servings of these products to gain the potential benefits described.

Other Alternatives

A better alternative for those with digestive disorders or dysfunction is to supplement with appropriate doses of the specific probiotic bacteria shown to confer beneficial effects with regards to the specific disorder.

This is often best achieved through the use of oral supplements in the form of capsules, tablets or chewable. These products are also suitable for individuals who are lactose intolerant.

However, food sources and drinks like Acidophilus milk, kefir and yakult can be used for ongoing maintenance. Probiotic drinks are a healthy and tasty alternative to other daily snacks and may help maintain good digestion and immune function.

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