Probiotics: What you should know.
                     PROBIOTICS: 
WHAT YOU 
SHOULD KNOW
What are 
probiotics?
• Probiotics are live microorganisms that promote our 
health and digestive system. It is known to prevent 
major digestive problems and restores gut health.
• Probiotics are commonly found in fermented foods. 
They balance the good and bad bacteria in your body 
and keep your body healthy. 
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How do probiotics 
work?
• Probiotics offer a wide range of health benefits, from 
your gut to your immune system.
• Probiotics are mainly involved with your digestive 
system. It helps to digest food and prevents the entry 
of infectious bacteria.
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Types of 
Probiotics
• Probiotics change your microbial composition and 
make it healthy. The gut biome plays an important 
role in the process of metabolism. 
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Lactobacillus
• Lactobacillus is one of the predominant and common 
probiotic species. They are commonly found in dairy 
products such as curd and yoghurt. Some species are 
also available in cheeses.
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Bifidobacterium 
• Bifidobacterium species are commonly used in 
supplements. Bifidobacteria limit the growth of 
harmful bacteria in the intestine and break lactose 
into nutrients so the body can use it.
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Saccharomyces 
boulardii
• Saccharomyces boulardii is a yeast that was initially 
isolated from lychee and mangosteen. It is similar to 
Saccharomyces cerevisiae but differs in the non-
pathogenic and biotherapeutic features.
• It is proven to have an effective probiotic property 
against various gastrointestinal disorders and 
promotes overall immune health.
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Irritable bowel 
syndrome
• Irritable bowel syndrome is a common disorder that 
affects the large intestine. It causes cramps, 
abdominal pain, gas, bloating and constipation. At 
times it can cause diarrhea.
• Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic condition, and 
some people exhibit severe symptoms and will need 
medical treatment.
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Inflammatory 
bowel disease 
• Inflammatory bowel disease is characterised by 
chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. 
Prolonged inflammation may lead to damage to the 
gastrointestinal tract.
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Infectious 
diarrhoea
• Infectious diarrhea is the common cause of diarrhea 
worldwide. It is also responsible for deaths.
• The major causes of diarrhea are bacteria, virus and 
some parasites. The way of infection is through the 
faecal-oral route.
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How to take a 
probiotic 
supplement?
• It is impossible to calculate CFU per unit and then 
consume probiotics like in a lab. It is better to 
consume foods that are rich in probiotics and 
supplements.  
• It is better to consult a doctor before taking any new 
supplements or probiotic organisms.
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