What are probiotics?

If you are like the millions of other shoppers seeing Probiotics splashed on everything and wondering what it is all about, do not feel alone. Probiotics may seem like a new term but the idea has been around for quite some time. At first, I thought it was the new antioxidant or antioxidants 2.0. It turns out that is not the case.

Essentially, we have tons and tons of bacteria living in our tummies. These bacteria can be divided into two groups, the good ones and the bad ones. The good ones aid us in digesting our food and obtaining energy from said sustenance. The bad ones do not do those things.

In short, probiotics help promote good bacteria. This may seem like fighting for the lesser of two evils but nothing could be further from the truth. By having more good bacteria, you are far more likely to be healthier, leaner, more energetic and have better skin. Probiotic consumption has been shown to help in weight loss (obese people have less good bacteria in their guts than thin people) and even help prevent eczema in children.

Where can I find probiotics?

Although they are featured predominately on new types of Yogurt such as Danon Activia, they are found in all types of Yogurt as well as cheese and even bananas. The best source is probably Yogurt. The new types you find are patented bacteria created by their respective companies which may or may not be superior to those found in traditional yogurt depending on who you ask. One study found that foods rich in prebiotics, such as bananas, compliment probiotic foods in helping aid in weight loss. Fruits in general are good for weight loss but this is just one more reason.