Eating foods with good bacteria can help maintain the balance during the use of antibiotics. Probiotic bacteria also may reduce the risk of colon cancer by decreasing the number of tumors. These healthy bacteria improve immunity by activating antibodies that protect the body from bacterial infection and disease. As with all supplements, the question whether probiotic supplementation is better than the consumption of probiotics from foods arises. Although current research has not found any adverse side effects or reactions to probiotic supplementation, we recommend food sources.
Food sources contain other nutrients such as calcium, protein and some essential fatty acids.
Future research is needed to discover more friendly bacteria, identify their specific benefits and how much is needed. Feldman is a registered dietitian and nutrition adviser for the University of California Cooperative Extension in Stanislaus and Tuolumne counties. 3800 Cornucopia Way, Suite A, Modesto 95358. The Modesto Bee. All Rights Reserved.