Lactobacillus acidophilus produces lactic acid (which inhibits yeast growth) as well as natural antibiotics, and has been shown to inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria such as salmonella, shigella, S. faecalis and E. coli. Studies have shown that L. acidophilus is effective in reducing lactose intolerance and reinforcing the immune system, as well as reducing cholesterol levels.
Lactobacillus brevis is a transient bacterium that is valued for its ability to help improve the symptoms of lactose intolerance. L. brevis inhibits the growth of some pathogens, and its proven antimicrobial effects support the immune system.
Lactobacillus bulgaricus is a transient strain that produces interferon, a protein that inhibits the replication of invading viruses, on its way through the intestinal tract. This bacterium is beneficial in cases of acute diarrhea and lactose sensitivity. Traditionally, L. bulgaricus is found in yogurt along with S. thermophilus.
Lactobacillus casei is commonly used for milk fermentation and is naturally occurring in the mouth and digestive tract. It breaks down carbohydrates and inhibits the growth of pathogenic bacteria in the small intestine. Studies have demonstrated L. casei's antimicrobial effects and its helpfulness in treating diarrhea caused by antibiotics and viruses.
Lactobacillus plantarum secretes a naturally occurring antibiotic called lactolin, giving it beneficial antimicrobial activities. This probiotic is being studied for its efficacy against allergies.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus occurs from the mouth to the small intestine, and helps inhibit the pathogenic bacteria involved in vaginal and urinary tract infections. It produces a mucus coating called mucin, which prevents toxins from entering the bloodstream and protects against the invasion of harmful microbes. L. rhamnosus has been shown to enhance the effectiveness of oral vaccinations against rotaviruses (which cause vomiting and diarrhea) and may help to remedy gastroenteritis (also called "stomach flu").
Lactobacillus salivarius found in the mouth and small intestine, has been shown to improve bleeding gums, tooth decay, bad breath, thrush and canker sores. L. salivarius breaks down proteins and produces B vitamins, enzymes and lactic acid. Its strong antimicrobial effects have been demonstrated clinically.
Bifidobacterium bifidum assists with proper digestion and absorption of calcium, iron, magnesium and other vitamins and minerals. It manufactures B vitamins and produces lactic and acetic acids, which inhibit the growth of unfriendly bacteria. Studies have shown that B. bifidum can reduce the incidence of acute diarrhea in infants and is beneficial in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. With regular use, B. bifidum can improve immunological and inflammatory responses in seniors.
Bifidobacterium breve also produces beneficial lactic and acetic acids. It has been shown to repress the growth of ulcer-inducing bacteria. Recent studies have demonstrated that B. breve populates the immature bowel of infants and can help very low birth weight babies to gain weight.
Bifidobacterium infantis is the most important probiotic found in infants' colons and is effective in the treatment of acute diarrhea. It stimulates the production of immuno-modulating agents, and can fight such pathogens as clostridia, salmonella, and shigella.
Bifidobacterium longum plays a direct role in preventing invasion of pathogenic and putrefactive bacteria. B. longum breaks down bile salts, helps to synthesize B vitamins, and stimulates the immune system through its effects on immunoglobulin A (IgA). Another producer of the good acids (lactic and acetic), B. longum has been clinically shown to improve lactose digestion and constipation.
Lactobacillus lactis (also referred to as Streptococcus lactis) is another transient bacterium that produces the immuno-supportive lactic acid. Lc. lactis produces a peptide called nisin, which has proven activity against C. difficile. In addition to controlling acute diarrhea, it is also recognized for its potential in the long-term management of colitis.
Streptococcus thermophilus is a transient bacterium with proven antioxidant activity. It produces large quantities of lactic acid and helps in the prevention and treatment of diarrhea. S. thermophilus also breaks down lactose and improves lactose intolerance by producing the enzyme lactase.
Who is Udo Erasmus?
