|
|
|
Essential Supplements
Probiotics
“Probiotic,” literally meaning “for life,” is a term used to describe the friendly bacteria and fungi which inhabit both the large and small intestines. There are at least 400 different species of micro-flora that live in the human gastrointestinal tract. There are billions of these microbes, amounting to approximately three pounds per adult! Some of the most important of these bacteria are acidophilus (Lactobacillus acidophilus), which inhabit the small intestine and bifidus (Bifidobacterium bifidum), which inhabit the large intestine. All of our organs are important, but as you’ll learn in the detoxification section, the colon requires your attention first, because when it doesn’t function properly, it affects the ability of all other organs to function optimally. I suggest taking daily supplements of acidophilis and bifidus because they are easily destroyed by factors such as antibiotics, stress, alcohol, high meat/fat diets, drugs and poor diet in general.
|
|
|
The small intestine is involved in the digestion, absorption, and transport of food. After passing through the stomach, food is further broken down in the small intestine; and vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, protein, and fat are absorbed. Microvilli—hair-like projections along the wall of the small intestine—perform two important functions: they provide necessary surface area for the absorption of nutrients and they help move food through the small intestine. Acidophilus helps to keep the spaces between the microvilli clear so they can function efficiently. Thus, acidophilus helps to promote normal peristalsis (movement of food) through the small intestine.
Acidophilus plays a role in the prevention of and defense against disease, especially of the gastrointestinal tract and vagina. As part of the “normal flora,” they inhibit the growth of harmful organisms by competing for nutrients, altering the pH to a more acidic level, and shifting oxygen levels to the detriment of pathogens (disease causing organisms). They also attach to sites otherwise preyed upon by pathogens.
Other benefits of acidophilus include: production of vitamins (which are absorbed into the blood); the synthesis of many B vitamins, including biotin and folic acid; an increase in the absorption of calcium, phosphorus and magnesium; normalization of cholesterol levels in the blood and production of digestive enzymes. Acidophilus also helps maintain bowel regularity. Acidophilus supplements have been shown to help reduce or eliminate intestinal, vaginal and urinary tract infections. Because this friendly bacteria promotes healthy intestinal functioning, it has been found to be useful in helping overcome many other diseases.
Bifidus helps repopulate the large intestine with friendly bacteria, creating a favorable environment for large intestine health. Bifidus lowers the pH of the intestines, manufactures specific B vitamins, ensures regular bowel movements, and can help stop gas and bloating while promoting proper immune function and overall health. Finally, eating a diet rich in plant foods will help to naturally cultivate a healthy balance of probiotic organisms.
|
|
