The primary food sources of probiotics in the United States are acidophilus milk and fermented milk products such as yogurt and kefirs. They also are available in supplement forms. Probiotics, or bacteria such as lactobacillus and bifidobacterium, make their home along with bad bacteria, coliforms and yeasts in the intestinal tract of all men, women and children. Together, these amount to about four pounds of bacteria in the intestinal tract. A balance of bacteria must exist at all times to maintain a healthy intestine and prevent disease.
Probiotics help break down protein into simpler units called amino acids.
Probiotic cultures increase the level of vitamins B6, B12, niacin, riboflavin and folic acid in yogurts, milks, kefir and some cheeses. These friendly cultures also improve the usage of digested fats and minerals like calcium. Other probiotic benefits include bowel regularity and decreased lactose intolerance. Probiotics also are known to have preventative characteristics. With the increased use of antibiotics, the friendly bacteria in the intestine are destroyed along with the bad bacteria.