Did you know how far we’ve come in putting together probiotic combinations? About 100 years ago, Elie Metchnikoff first posed the idea that certain bacteria were helpful for human health. He said that if we consumed certain “lactic bacilli” our health would be enhanced by their activity in the intestines.
It’s taken a lot of years since then to discover just how useful these bacteria are. There are literally hundreds of useful bacteria that live in the intestines. Acidophilus is the most popular. Years ago, milk manufacturers would add acidophilus to the milk to help people digest it better. It was a great way to help people who were lactose intolerant.
Now, more and more strains are becoming popular. Certain strains of bifidus have been shown to be helpful for colitis and irritable bowel. Many people are prescribed probiotics overseas to help combat traveler’s diarrhea.
Virtually all probiotics produce powerful acids, which combat microbes. Many produce hydrogen peroxide. The main thing these substances do is create an inhospitable environment for pathogens to take root. Some of the lesser-known probiotic strains have gotten my attention lately. One is called Lactobacillus Reuteri. Reuteri inhabits the intestinal tract of nearly all mammals. It does a great job protecting us against yeast, parasites, and even certain chemicals like the drug methotrexate. Like other strains, reuteri also helps us absorb food and nutrients better, as well.
Another incredible strain is called Lactobacillus Rhamnosus. A study was published in June of 2007 showing that this friendly bacteria reduces the strength of aflatoxin B1. You’ve heard Doug talk about this cancer-causing mycotoxin for years. This study convinced me to start taking Rhamnosus every day for antifungal protection.
I also recently read a paper in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition about the strain called Lactobacillus Plantarum. The study said that plantarum had already been effective at lowering bad LDL cholesterol. Now it seems to effectively decrease blood pressure, inflammation, and immune function in people who are heavy smokers. Once again, I’m amazed at what these probiotics can do. That’s why I take them every day.
I’m Guy Evans, and now you know!