[b]Probiotics may sound like some menacing robot army from the future, but in reality they exist in the present and are an important component of a healthy diet. Our bodies contain billions of helpful bacteria and other microorganisms that facilitate digestion and keep our insides healthy. Probiotics is the general term for dietary supplements and foods that contain these same "good" bacteria found in our bodies. So in essence probiotics are an army of sorts, but an important, helpful microscopic army that you eat.

While there is some debate on whether it is really necessary to ingest bacteria that we should already have in our bodies, probiotics continue to prove their worth. There is growing evidence that probiotics may help with a whole myriad of ailments such as:

* Treating diarrhea
* Preventing and treating vaginal yeast infections and urinary tract infections
* Treating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
* Reducing bladder cancer recurrence
* Shortening the duration of intestinal infections
* Preventing and treating inflammation following colon surgery and
* Preventing eczema in children.

And research is showing that probiotics are not only important in treating specific conditions, but also in improving general health. Because our “guts” are especially porous, they are vulnerable to viruses and bacteria. Therefore it is believed (and being proven) that having the right amount of the good bacteria in our system helps to create a barrier protecting us from the bad bacteria. Probiotics also provides a source of calcium to those individuals who are lactose intolerant and unable to consume most dairy foods.


There are many types of beneficial bacteria, but you want to make sure you get probiotics so be sure to look for the name "probiotics." Biotics refer to the bacteria, with pro meaning to promote, and anti (as in antibiotics) meaning to destroy. 
The most popular types of probiotics are lactobacillus and bifidobacterium. But don’t be scared off with these names just look for a product that is clearly labeled “probiotics” and contains a variety of beneficial organisms. Be sure to store a probiotic supplement in the refrigerator and do not expose it to heat.

In addition to supplements, probiotics can be found in such foods as yogurt, fermented and unfermented milk, miso, and some juices and soy drinks. Also, Kashi carries a line of probiotic cereal. Visit your local health food store, as they probably carry a variety of probiotic foods that you never knew existed.

It’s important to note that the use of probiotics is not a quick fix; you’re not going to take them one morning and instantly feel great. It takes a while for the bacteria to colonize inside you. Once there are plenty there, they can fight the good fight.