“Probiotics” are a broad category of various strains of beneficial microbes, usually Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and fermentation yeasts. These may be consumed as part of one’s daily diet in the form of fermented food such as soft cheeses, sauerkraut, Japanese miso and related traditional fermented foods, or they may be taken in capsule, powder or liquid forms as dietary supplements.

It is my opinion that all of us should consume some form of probiotic-rich food or supplement on a daily basis, to maintain optimum health. The evidence is too compelling to believe otherwise.

Consumption of these beneficial microorganisms may not be entirely essential in that one can survive without deliberately consuming them. However, the positive health benefits and long history of inclusion of fermented foods in nearly every traditional diet worldwide, speaks to their value.

Part of what these beneficial bugs do is “competitively exclude” potentially harmful bacteria within the intestinal tract by simply crowding them out. They also seem to stimulate the immune system by stimulating phagocytosis, promoting production of Natural Killer Cells and T-lymphocytes. (1) (2)

Research has shown a broad range of pathogen-fighting health benefits resulting from probiotic supplementation ranging from reduction in respiratory infections to prevention of gastrointestinal infections involving diarrhea.

Then there are the anti-tumor benefits, offering yet another shield against cancer. Carcinogenic substances known as heterocyclic amines, found in cooked meats, for instance may be bound and detoxified by these beneficial organisms. (3)

An article in The Journal of Nutrition (2000) titled “Considerations for Use of Probiotic Bacteria to Modulate Human Health” states “… Monique et al. (1986) found an inverse relationship between frequency of yogurt consumption and risk of breast cancer in France (1010 breast cancer cases and 1950 controls). Peters et al. (1992) found yogurt to be a protective factor in a case-controlled study of colon cancer incidence in Los Angeles County (746 cases, 746 controls). A case-controlled study of breast cancer in the Netherlands (van’t Veer et al. 1989) also suggested that fermented dairy products could be protective (133 cases and 289 controls), although Kampman et al. (1994) did not find a similar relationship between fermented dairy products and colorectal cancer. One intervention trial did show that the recurrence rate for superficial bladder cancer was lower for subjects receiving freeze-dried Lactobacillus casei Shirota than a placebo (Aso and Akazan 1992 ). More such studies will be important in clarifying the role probiotic products play in cancer rates” (4)

Clearly, regular consumption of fermented foods and/or dietary probiotic supplements is a well advised strategy to pursue in maintaining a healthy and robust immune system. When buying encapsulated or liquid probiotic supplements it’s always a good idea to make sure they have been kept refrigerated, as these are living organisms, sensitive to overheating. Jarrow Formulas, Bluebonnet Corp. and a host of other nutritional supplement companies manufacture high quality probiotic formulas.

Probiotic formulas are a very low risk form of health insurance. Aside from potential allergic reactions or food intolerances in a small portion of the population, these foods and formulas are about as safe as they come.

Remember, it’s always a good idea to consult with a qualified health professional familiar with natural products before using any herb or nutritional supplement.

To your Health!

Marcus Gitterle, MD