A word on Probiotics.

If you are often on antibiotics, or have a digestive system which is frequently upset (bloating, constipation, diarrhea etc.), then you might be interested in learning more about these oft-talked about 'friendly' bacteria which are available as a supplement.....

The general term 'probiotics' is described by wikipedia as 'microorganisms thought to be healthy for the host organism'. To be more specific, when you take a probiotic supplement, you are replenishing the 'good' bacteria in your body (these are wiped out by courses of antibiotics and recurring diarrhea). Having a healthy community of 'good' bacteria in turn offers a whole spectrum of gastrointestinal health benefits ranging from promoting gut and intestinal functions to developing a healthy immune system.

So, can you get these from food? Yes; most yogurts contain 'Live Active Cultures of Probiotics', but the reality is that you really do have to eat a huge amount of yogurt to receive the benefits of its probiotic content if your existing bacterial ratios are challenged. If you feel that you have had gastrointestinal upsets or would benefit from re-balancing your body's bacteria, I really recommend seeking out a supplement. If you need more guidance, feel free to email me!

Here's to a healthy digestion for the holiday season!

(Oh, and as a side-note - there are probiotics specially for toddlers and infants....they can work wonders on upset little systems!)