Probiotics and Essential Fatty Acids

Lactobacillus
Lactobacillus is a type of friendly bacteria found in foods such as yogurt and food supplements. Lactobacillus is used for treatinggeneral digestive problems or issues such as irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease, and is used for various skin problems including canker sores, fever blisters and even acne.

Acidophilus
Acidophilus is part of a family of bacteria which help in the process of human digestion. In the human body, Acidophilus is a live microbial organism. Today Acidophilus is known as a helpful and very beneficial "probiotic" and can be found in powder, capsule, tablet or liquid form. These days, Acidophilus drinks are found in many health food stores, select grocery stores and in some Asian markets. It is sometimes even given to dogs as a dietary supplement to help improve their digestive health.

Lactobacillus bulgaricus
Lactobacillus bulgaricus is a microorganism that shrinks or multiplies constantly within the mucous lining of the gastrointestinal tract. Lactobacillus bulgaricus helps with the absorption of helpful nutrients and helps divert away dangerous or harmful toxins and microbes. Today, Lactobacillus bulgaricus is known as a helpful "probiotic". The name is derived from the Bulgarians who created the fermented milk product we call yogurt. After a course of antibiotics the helpful flora in the intestinal tract may be compromised and this may lead to associated diarrhea; however, the use of Lactobacillus bulgaricus can significantly lower a patient's risk of developing diarrhea. Today it is available as a dietary supplement.

Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Lactobacillus rhamnosus by itself is a species of bacterium which in the human body lives in the small intestine and today is known as a helpful "probiotic." In the food industry it is used in dairy products such as cheese and yogurt but is also available in capsule form.

Casei
Lactobacillus casei produces lactic acid and is an extremely adaptable, beneficial species of bacteria found in the human mouth and intestine. Today, L. casei is known as a helpful "probiotic." L. casei is able to promote and improve digestion and may eventually play some role in lessening symptoms of intestinal bowel diseases such as Crohn's. It may also reduce lactose intolerance and some strains may help control diarrhea.

Plantarum
Lactobacillus plantarum is a member of the large group Lactobacillus and is found in many fermented vegetables, some cheeses and kefir. Lactobacillus Plantarum is sensitive to many commonly prescribed antibiotics which is why doctors tell their patients to eat yogurt or kefir after undergoing a round of anything in the antibiotic drug category. Lactobacillus planetarium may help decrease abdominal bloating associated with irritable bowel disease. It may also improve liver status and help improve intestinal mucosa.

Brevis
Lactobacillus brevis is a member of the large group of friendly Lactobacillus bacteria. They are rod-shaped, non-spore forming bacteria. Today, Lactobacillus brevis is known as a helpful "probiotic" and is mainly found in foods and then predominantly found in fermented foods, for example sauerkraut, Korean Kimchi and pickles. It is also most likely the culprit when beer "spoils." It is widely used as a starter culture for sourdough bread.

Causasicus
Lactobacillus causasicus is a member of the large group of friendly Lactobacillus bacteria. Today, Lactobacillus causasicus is known as a helpful "probiotic" and is an ingredient in supplements.

Bifidobacterium Bifidum
Bifidobacterium bifidum is just one beneficial kind of bacteria found in the human digestive system. Bifidobacterium bifidum is a beneficial "probiotic". It breaks down undigested carbohydrates which could not otherwise be utilized by the body. It also enhances the body's natural immune response. Probiotics can be made a part of a healthy diet by eating foods with active, live cultures but Bifidobacterium bifidum can also be found in powdered, liquid or capsule supplements.

Lecithin
Lecithin was first isolated in hen's eggs in 1846. The word actually is derived from the Greek word lekithos, meaning egg yolk. It is a yellowish-brown naturally occurring fatty substance which is found in all cells and is of utmost importance in mammals. In addition to being present in eggs, it is found in peanuts, cauliflower, oranges, beef liver and steak. Researchers believe that Lecithin may control blood pressure as well as regulate insulin. In the food industry, lecithin is derived from egg yolks and soybeans. Commercially, lecithin is found in cheeses, margarine and salad dressings… plus chocolate!