Probiotics are living microorganisms (small organisms that can only be seen under a microscope), so our bodies need to promote good health. In simple terms, probiotics are friendly microbes, or “good” microbes for humans. I call it a “good” microbe here. Because they bring us many health benefits, including B. Helps digestion, stimulates the immune system, and protects us from the “bad” microbes that make us sick.

There are different types of probiotics. The most and widely used probiotic bacteria are:

Lactobacillus: This is the most common probiotic bacterium found in supplements, yogurt, etc. Lactobacillus is common in our intestines and many body parts and plays an important role in maintaining our health. Common species of Lactobacillus include Lactobacillus galinalum, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Lactobacillus ramnosus, and Lactobacillus casei.

Bifidobacterium: Like Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium is a probiotic bacterium widely used in dietary supplements and foods. Bifidobacterium usually inhabits our intestines and stomach. They help our body perform important functions like digestion and compete with “bad” bacteria for food to kill them. Examples of bifidobacteria are bifidobacteria bifidobacteria and bifidobacteria brave.

Streptococcus: A type of lactic acid bacterium (LAB). Some streptococcal species can cause disease in humans, while most streptococcal species are not harmful, but live naturally and peacefully in our mouth, skin, intestines, and upper respiratory tract. Streptococcus is used in the production of Swiss cheese.

Other types of probiotic bacteria are Enterococcus, Escherichia, Bacillus, and Saccharomyces (yeast).

Why do you need probiotics? 

Many people are very afraid of microbes, and some call them bacteria. Have you ever met someone who was obsessed with cleanliness and personal hygiene and occasionally washed and disinfected their hands? If so, you may find that the person is probably prone to developing eczema or has some kind of skin infection. why? This is because excessive cleansing removes and kills the natural microbial flora on the surface of the skin that protects us from attack by “bad” microorganisms in the environment.

Can probiotics be harmful? 

Probiotics have a long history of seemingly safe to use, especially for healthy people. However, few studies have investigated the safety of probiotics in detail, so there is a lack of solid information on the frequency and severity of side effects.  The risk of side effects from probiotics is higher in people with serious illness or weakened immunity. When considering probiotics for high-risk individuals such as premature babies and critically ill inpatients, the potential risks of probiotics and their benefits should be carefully weighed. Possible adverse effects of probiotics include infectious diseases, the production of harmful substances by probiotic microorganisms, and the transfer of antibiotic resistance genes from probiotic microorganisms to other microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract. It has been reported that some probiotic products contain microorganisms other than those listed on the label. In some cases, these contaminants can pose a serious health risk

Where can we get Probiotics?

We can get Probiotics from daily food intake such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, tempeh, kimchi, miso, kombucha, pickles and so on.