Probiotic yogurt has become a rage all over these days. However, it is important to know its side effects before consuming it. Read on to know more.
The human gut is home to a number of beneficial microorganisms, which in some cases are bacteria. They are also referred to as friendly or good bacteria. Probiotics also contain live microorganisms, which are similar to these. They are very commonly found in the gut of breastfed infants.
There are two groups of these bacteria, namely Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium. Although probiotic foods have come into prominence in the last few years, it has been in use since the ancient times. Fermented foods and cultured milk products are a part of probiotic foods.
They are available in different formats, the most common being the probiotic yogurt. In these foods, the bacteria can either be present originally, or can be added during preparation.
Health Benefits
Probiotics contain friendly bacteria, which are necessary for development of the immune system. It helps in protecting the system from different diseases. They help in digestion, as well as in the absorption of food and nutrients in the body.
Consuming probiotics after and during certain illness has proved to be beneficial. Often, taking antibiotics kills the friendly bacteria in the gut, as it also kills the trouble causing bacteria. Consuming probiotic foods along with antibiotics helps in alleviating symptoms like gas, cramping, diarrhea, etc., which are often caused by antibiotics.
A lactose intolerant person is known to benefit from probiotics as well. People who are lactose intolerant do not have an enzyme which is necessary to digest lactose. This, in turn, leads to a number of gastrointestinal symptoms.
They are also said to be helpful in conditions like infectious diarrhea, irritable bowl syndrome, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, vaginal infections, skin infections, etc. In other words, it has many benefits for the immune system.
Side Effects
Normally the side effects of probiotics are mild in nature. People may suffer from gas and bloating after consumption. If a person suffers from an underlying health condition, then consuming probiotics can give rise to serious health conditions. It may cause infections, which may have to be treated with antibiotics.
According to some experts, consuming probiotics can over-stimulate the immune system. It can also give rise to unhealthy metabolic activities or gene transfer. There are different probiotic yogurt brands, which are available in the market. Not all brands may agree with your system well.
Therefore, you may have to use some permutation and combination to find the brand, which agrees best with your system. At the same time, it is important that you do not use it as a replacement therapy for the medicines, that you are taking currently.
It is important to note that not everyone suffers from the side effects. Different people may react to it differently. Some people may benefit a great deal, whereas others may find it difficult to digest it.
If you are going to start consuming probiotic yogurt, then it is best to talk to your health care professional. Depending on your health condition, your health care professional will be able to prescribe the right yogurt for you. If you suffer from any side effects after consumption, then contact your health care professional immediately.