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Dr. Dash, in the 1970's rediscovered probiotics and later manufactured and marketed several probiotic products for human and animal uses. While working for the government, Dr. Dash also introduced the quality control standards for probiotics, which are now used by the industry.
Probiotic products are now available in different formulations with Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidobacterium infantis, Enterococcus faecium and others with or without prebiotic Fructooligosaccharides (FOS). The most common probiotic products are Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidus longum with FOS, and Bifidus infantis and Lactobacillus acidophilus with FOS.
The major benifits that probiotic product may improve intestinal microbial balance, e.g.
- May help with digestion of foods and digestive issues.
- May help to improve immune function
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Those familiar with the benefits of probiotic often consume yogurt, a long-recognized source of friendly bacteria. Unfortunately, commercial yogurt often lacks the probiotic. Even the commercial yogurt fortified with Lactobacillus acidophilus and sitting on the shelf for several days does not have viable probiotics. For this reason, fresh, homemade yogurt can be a reliable source of probiotic(s). However, it often fails to provide sufficient amounts for its intended purpose. As yogurt and other foods do not supply the needed probiotics, supplementation of probiotics on a daily basis is highly recommended. Probiotic capsules, tables or powder supplying 2 to 5 billion live organisms (CFU) should be taken daily for maintenance digestive issues.
All probiotic products are not the same. The name Acidophilus or probiotic does not mean anything unless the probiotic product:
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- Contains the right strain(s)
- Is viable
- Remains stable and viable for a long period
- Has ability to survive in the intestine
- Produces beneficial effects in the intestine
- Probiotics products sitting on the shelf (without refrigeration) lose potency first. For this reason, refrigerated, viable probiotic products are recommended
- Non-dairy probiotic products are recommended by health professionals for persons allergic to dairy products and for persons.
- Nitrogen-flushed packaging of probiotics enhances the keeping quality of the probiotics.
- Fortification of probiotics with prebiotic Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) enhances the value of probiotics selectively and enhances their growth in the gut.
- Combinations of unknown and undesirable bacteria in probiotic products can even be harmful to the human body. Also, combinations of known and friendly bacteria in a disproportionate manner can alter flora balance in the gut.
The consumer must read current scientific literature on probiotics products, which are refrigerated, viable and non-dairy, and contain superior strains of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium longum and with prebiotic Fructooligosaccharides (FOS).
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