Jennifer Jordan
Debbie Strong MBA, RD

Supermarkets are filled with them.  Jamie Lee Curtis, the actress, is a spokeswoman for them.  Researchers have a growing interest in them---Probiotics.  If you take a stroll down the diary aisle at the grocery store or through a health food store, you are sure to find a variety of yogurts that have the latest craze to hit the shelves.  DanActive, Activia, and YO are just a few examples of foods that contain the probiotics.  So what are they? 

Probiotic literally means "for life." These are active, live, and good bacteria, also called cultures.  In the body, bacteria already live all along the digestive tract, and probiotics work to help provide more good bacteria in our system. Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are two common strains of probiotics used in these products; strains are just different forms of bacteria.   In the last five years sales have increased and more probiotic products are out there for consumers.  So what is good about them?

Probiotics can help with regular bowel movements.  They may also provide some relief with diarrhea and improve problems with lactose intolerance.  Consumers with irritable bowel syndrome can benefit from probiotics by the bacteria promoting healthy digestion.  Some research shows probiotics can boost immunity.  The good bacteria can help our body's natural defense system fight off the "bad stuff" that causes sickness.  So what is important before purchasing probiotics?

Not all probiotics are created equal.  There are no specific government standards and no guarantees that you will have a useful product.  Some foods have more cultures or different strains.  Finding a product that is right for you may be trial and error.  It is important to note that yogurt, in itself, can be a great source of low fat dairy, protein, and calcium.  The probiotics in yogurt are an added bonus.