Colostrum also contains antibodies, which help fight infections, and concentrated nutrients that infants need after the stress of birth. B. bifidum are also encouraged by the balance of high lactose and low protein in human milk. Also , says Professor Bohach, B. bifidum alters an infant s intestinal environment so that other beneficial bacteria species can grow. You might wonder about people who are not newborn. Bacteria that usually live in adult s intestines include B. bifidum and other Bifidobacterium , Escherichia coli , Bacteroides and Lactobacillus .
People can lose their normal flora because of stress, surgery, pregnancy or antibiotics.
When this occurs, the digestive system s owner may suffer from appetite loss, weight loss or diarrhea. They can also get sick easier. According to Professor Bohach, Bifidobacterium needs to be replaced first, since it sets the stage for other species. Cultured milk foods, such as yogurt and buttermilk, contain this beneficial bacteria, as do supplements called probiotics. Many helpful species are on food and other surfaces, so a person may get them without even realizing it.