Probiotics are live microorganisms—beneficial bacteria—that,
when consumed in sufficient quantities, have been proven to
provide health benefits beyond what basic nutrition provides.
Probiotic is Latin for “good for life.” We all have naturally-
occurring probiotic bacteria communities in our digestive
systems, where they help to keep the digestive system
functioning well. They: Protect the body from harmful bacteria
Exercise the immune system, to ensure it is ready to react to
harmful bacteria Strengthen the intestinal wall, so it can act
as a defensive barrier Digest fiber in our diet, so we can
absorb the nutrients from the foods we eat For people who have
digestive problems, adding more probiotic bacteria, by consuming
live cultures, has been shown to have beneficial effects. There
are different strains of live cultures (a.k.a. live active
cultures). While numerous products are labeled as having “live
cultures,” not all live cultures are probiotic. They must be
able to reach the intestine alive, and in suf