Probiotics such as acidophilus are micro organisms that are beneficial for the human host.

Your digestive tract is home to trillions of microorganisms; some of these are beneficial, some are harmful, and some are neutral. The term 'probiotics' describes the beneficial microorganisms which, amongst other actions, help to crowd out harmful bacteria in order to keep you healthy. This is important because more than 70% of the body's immune defences are based in the gut.

Probiotic species Bacillus subtilis, Lactococcus lactis and Bifidobacterium breve
Probiotic species Bacillus subtilis, Lactococcus lactis and Bifidobacterium breve. - A healthy balance of probiotics in the gut is important for good digestion, immunity, & energy levels.

What do probiotics do?
Probiotics support your digestive health by producing specific enzymes needed in the digestion of food and aiding the break down of foods substances. Probiotics also improve the absorption of vitamins & minerals into the bloodstream, and even produce B complex vitamins & vitamin K.

Probiotics support your immunity by stimulating the body’s natural defences, and by lining the intestines with a protective layer of friendly bacteria that bars pathogenic substances in the gut from harming the body. As two-thirds of the body's immune system is managed in the gut, it is important to keep one's probiotic levels high.

Are Probiotics the same as Prebiotics?
Probiotics are related to, but not the same as, Prebiotics. Prebiotics are fibres which stimulate the growth of probiotics. See What are Prebiotics? for further information.

A Delicate Balance
Disruptions to the balance of probiotics in the gut can compromise the beneficial roles that they play in the body. People with an imbalance of probiotics and pathogens in the gut may experience poor digestion, lowered natural immunity and a large variety of conditions such as:

Low Energy Levels
Poor Immunity
Gas or Bloating
Food intolerances or Allergies
Acne and/or Eczema
Indigestion, Heartburn
Constipation or Diarrhoea
Thrush and/or Candida Overgrowth
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Research has shown probiotic supplementation to be an effective way of supporting a healthy gut.