Probiotics - good bacteria for the colon.

Our body is host to a large number of microorganisms, many of which influence us on a variety of levels. These organisms are important to our system and usually have a harmonious relationship with us.
Even before we are born, microbes start colonizing every part of our body. By the age of three our gut contains approx. 100 trillion microbes. We have about 500 different bacterial species in our digestive system with 30-40 main species. This amounts to an average of 2kg of bodyweight. Some of the most prevalent species are Bifidobacterium infantis and Bifidobacterium longum as well as a variety of Lactobacillus like Lactobacillus acidophilus and helveticus.

Composed of viruses and fungi and mostly bacteria they for a complex of active compounds in our gut. Some of these compounds closely resemble human hormones and neurotransmitters. Microbes in the stomach, the large and small intestines have been known to play a role in human health for a long time. Stomach ulcers and IBS are linked to disbiosis, an imbalance in microbial population of the gut. 

In light of the growing dangers of food contamination, food poisoning and the growing spread of resistant pathogens that are found in our food supply and hospitals, it is important to supplement the right beneficial bacteria on a daily bases.
Good bacteria get excreted out of the body because they do not anchor themselves to the intestinal wall. So it is important to supplement which probiotics daily because the beneficial bacteria help to continuously detoxify pathogens in their passage through the body
The daily supplementation of a good probiotic like Flora Food ensures that we get adequate amounts of bacteria to benefit the entire intestinal tract. 
The main bacteria to take are:

• Bifidobacterium bifidum, produces natural antibiotic substances to fight of pathogens. It inhibits the growth of yeast infections and assists in the absorption of calcium and other vitamins and minerals as well as helps rid the body of toxins.
• Lactobacillus acidophilus is good for the small intestine and should always be taken after antibiotics. They come in a variety of strains, like DDS-1 or NAS, which are specific to fight off certain pathogens.
• Lactobacillus bulgaricus defends the large intestine and helps to keep unfriendly organisms in check. It can help stimulate peristaltic action and maintain our natural electrolyte balance. Some strains have antacid action others have strong immune-stimulating and anti-carcinogenic properties.

The enteric nervous system is embedded in the lining of the intestines and has hundreds of millions of neurons, many more than in our brain. Hence the term ‘second brain’ for our gut.
Communication between the gut neurons and the brain happen via the vagus nerve.

We can see clearly how our mind and gut are connected when we think about how we experience stress and anxiety. A 2004 study from Nobuyuki Sudo of Kyushu University in Japan revealed that the less gut bacteria the higher the amount of stress hormones and reduced capability for memory and learning.

Lately scientist have discovered that the good bacteria in our gut may be altering our emotions and moods. Some even suggest that it could influence our personalities.
Gut bacteria appear to alter the development of key regions involved in learning and memory in the brain.  Some studies suggesting that probiotic supplements could be helpful with mood disorders.
One study found that people who took probiotics showed decrease in signs of psychological distress.
It was also found that emotional states might alter gut microbes, which can increase the gut’s permeability and lead to skin inflammation and acne.

Some common warning signs of a Bacteria imbalance

• Bad breath, gum disease & dental problems
• Sleeping poorly, possible night sweats
• Frequent colds, flu or infections
• Faulty digestion, acid reflux and other gut disorders
• Chronic yeast problems, candida
• Frequent constipation or diarrhoea
• Acne, eczema, skin & foot fungus, etc
• Frequent fatigue, poor concentration
• Extreme menstrual or menopausal symptoms
• Difficulty losing weight, sugar/carbohydratecravings
• Allergies and food sensitivities
• Painful joint inflammations/stiffness
  

If you have any of these symptoms, start taking higher amounts (up to 4x the recommended dosage) of a good Probiotic like Flora Food or Inner Health Plus

Avoid things that kill your good bacteria in the gut:

• Antibiotics
• Steroidal/hormonal drugs
• Birth control pills
• Chlorine
• Fluoride
• Coffee/tea
• Man-made vitamins
• Carbonated drinks
• Synthetic ascorbic acid
• Stress
• Radiation
• Additives
• Preservatives
• Pesticides
• Fertilisers

A word on Lactose intolerance
Many people are unable to digest milk because of the inability to process lactose, the milk sugar present in fresh milk. Lactose intolerance is caused by the deficiency of the enzyme lactase which digests lactose.
Lactic bacteria produce their own lactase (beta-galactosidase) which hydrolyses the lactose into glucose and galactose. The glucose is used to manufacture lactic acid. The bacteria also stimulate the body’s ability to produce its own lactase.
Ironically enough only Supplements grown on milk can provide the lactase enzyme as the lactobacilli produce the lactase for their own digestive needs.
If you are lactose intolerant start with a small dose of 1/8th teaspoon daily building up to levels of ½ teaspoon three times a day. Than try to add fermented dairy products in small amounts to the diet.