What is pro-biotic?
Answer:
Probiotic: A microbe that protects its host and prevents disease. The best-known probiotic is Lactobacillus acidophilus, which is found in yogurt, acidophilus milk, and supplements. Probiotics counter the decimation of helpful intestinal bacteria by antibiotics. Probiotics given in combination with antibiotics are therefore useful in preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea. The yeast S. boulardii and three strains of Lactobacillus have also been shown to be useful in this regard.
Probiotics is defined as live microbial feed supplements, which beneficially affect the host animal by improving its intestinal microbial balance. Antibiotics and other related compounds are not included in this definition. In humans, lactobacilli are commonly used as probiotics, either as single species or in mixed culture with other bacteria. Other genera that have been used are bifidobacteria and streptococci 1 Probiotics are small organisms that help maintain the natural balance of other organism in the intestines. Probiotics may be a safe and “natural” approach that helps curb the population of unwanted bacteria that cause microbial infections. The largest group of probiotic bacteria in the intestine is lactic acid bacteria.
Probiotics are dietary supplements containing potentially beneficial bacteria or yeast, with lactic acid bacteria (LAB) as the most common microbes used. LAB have been used in the food industry for many years, because they are able to convert sugars (including lactose) and other carbohydrates into lactic acid. This not only provides the characteristic sour taste of fermented dairy foods such as yogurt, but acts as a preservative, by lowering the pH and creating fewer opportunities for spoilage organisms to grow.
A chemical/substance for the purpose of protecting the immune system as a means of prevention, as opposed to treating ailments after you get sick.
Pro-biotics are usually dietary supplements. Acidophilus is one used for the GI system. Here is more info about this particular one.
http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/digestiv...
The answers post by the user, for information only, FunQA.com does not guarantee the right.
More Questions and Answers: