Bacteria lingo:

• Probiotic: derived from the Greek language, meaning 'for life' or life-promoting.
• Probiotics: microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, can benefit health (good bacteria).
• Prebiotics: non-digestible carbohydrates that feed and stimulate growth of probiotics.
• Synbiotics: a product that contains both probiotics and prebiotics.

The DL on gut bacteria:

• The gut contains about 100 trillion bacteria.
• All the bacteria in your gut combined is estimated to weigh about 2lbs.
• You have 10x more bacteria in your gut than cells in your body.
• 70% of your immune system is located in your gut.
• Researchers now call our bacteria its own distinct organ: the microbiome.

Bug benefits (probiotics):

• Reduce symptoms of constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) & inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
• Decrease acute diarrhea, antibiotic-related diarrhea & symptoms of lactose intolerance.
• Support a healthy immune system & prevent infections.
• Enhance digestion & nutrient absorption.
• Reduce inflammation & possible link to weight control.

Other indications for probiotics use:

• Medications (i.e., antibiotics).
• Stress — physical & emotional.
• Poor Diet: processed foods, alcohol, over-eating, low fiber, low produce intake.

Food sources of probiotics, eat your 'bugs':

• Yogurt.
• Kefir.
• Sauerkraut or kimchi.
• Miso.
• Sourdough bread.
• Kombucha or fermented tea.

Food sources of prebiotics, eat your bugs food.

• Legumes & whole grains.
• Fruits.
• Flax.
• Garlic & onion.
  

Facts:

Each group of bacteria has different species and each species has different strains. Each strain has different benefits for different parts of your body. Effectiveness depends on the strain and dose. Doses are measured in CFUs: Colony Forming Units. A probiotic should contain several billion CFUs to increase the likelihood of adequate gut colonization. More is not better; amount needed depends on the strain. Doses typically range from 1-20 billion CFUs.

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