The British Journal of Nutrition published a study that detailed how probiotics stifled the growth of bacteria that turned certain compounds into carcinogens. The peer-reviewed journal article showed that lactic acid bacteria (LAB), the good bacteria present in yogurt and other probiotics, can help fight breast cancer and colon cancer.
Here’s another proof of probiotics’ anti-cancer fighting ability. A study performed by Seiji Naito of the Kyushu University Urological Oncology Group showed that the supplementation of lactobacillus casei was successful in preventing bladder cancer recurrence among the patients being tested. The results of Naito’s study were published in the Journal of Urology.
The immune system is intertwined with the balance of bacterial flora inside the human body. When the balance is upset, the immune system weakens. Pathogens can then wreak havoc and cause diseases.
The friendly bacterial flora present in the gut can be thought of as another “organ.” Similar to organs like the liver and the pancreas, the gut flora has its special functions. It aids in the digestion and absorption of nutrients from food. That is the reason diarrhea usually results from the intake of antibiotics. Antibiotics kill the good bacteria in the gut, affecting digestion and causing diarrhea.
Another health benefit of the different strains of lactobacillus in probiotics is in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis and urinary tract infections. Suppositories laced with lactobacillus acidophilus successfully cure bacterial vaginosis and UTIs.
It looks like the delicious and creamy yogurt is more than just a nutritional aid. The best time to take it is on a full stomach. A full stomach is less acidic. Thus, more of the microorganisms can survive and help your immune system.
Take note of digestive gas and minor food allergies as possible side effects of probiotics. People who are immunosuppressed (e.g. people who are HIV-positive) must not take probiotics.
Probiotics are not cures for cancer. They simply help you avoid getting sick and flush out the bacteria that turn pro-carcinogenic compounds into carcinogens.
Of course, you should always check with your doctor first.
