Potential immune, digestive and overall health benefit of probiotics like Nature's Way Primadophilus

Feb. 8, 2010 - PRLog -- The fascinating story of the beneficial bacteria known as probiotics

In the early 1900's, Russian scientist and Nobel laureate Eli Metchnikoff observed that groups in remote regions of Bulgaria and the Russian steppes appeared to live exceptionally long lives. One thing these groups had in common was a diet based largely on milk fermented by lactic-acid bacteria. Eventually, scientists came to the realization that "certain live microorganisms, which when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host" (that's according to the World Health Organization).

So what are these microorganisms (bacteria) that we know as probiotics?

Most probiotics contain bacteria from two groups: 1) Lactobacillus such as acidophilus, bulgaricus, casei, helveticus, plantarum, reuteri, rhamnosus and salivarius, and 2)  Bifidobacteria such as bifidum, breve, infantis and longum. In general, Lactobacillus bacteria tend to concentrate in the lower regions of the small intestine, while Bifidobacterium locate in the large intestine (or colon).

Other types of probiotic bacteria include Lactococcus lactis and the yogurt starter culture Streptococcus thermophilus.

What is the rationale for adding probiotics into our diet?

The human body contains trillions of living bacterial microorganisms within the digestive tract, which assist with digestion and immune functions. This internal community of bacteria is collectively known as the microflora. A wide range of factors threatens the composition and strength of the microflora, including the use of antibiotic drugs, illness and stress. As a result, the bacteria that work well in the body may decrease in number, which allows potentially harmful types to thrive and adversely affect good health. Taking a probiotic supplement helps replenish and restore balance to the digestive tract with beneficial bacteria.

While yogurt, kefir and other fermented foods are the most commonly found sources of these beneficial bacteria (probiotics), many factors such as the shelflife and delivery and storage conditions can effect the potency and effectiveness of any probiotic source.

At HouseOfNutrition.com, we believe that some of the most potent, pure and diverse probiotics options come from Nature's Way - one of the premier vitamin, herb and nutrtional supplement companies.

Nature's Way Primadophilus line of probiotics are suitable for vegetarians and formulated in easy to use, once daily dosages and come in a variety of combinations uniquely balanced for specific age groups.

Nature's Way Primadophilus combinations include:

Primadophilus Bifidus (4 strain formula, including Bifidobacteria & Lactobacilli, specifically designed for adults)
Primadophilus Children (available in both Cherry and Orange flavor)
Primadophilus Junior (featuring 5 strain formula specifically designed for children ages 6-12)
Primadophilus Original (containing Acidophilus & Rhamnosus and designed to meet the needs of all ages)
Primadophilus Optima (containing 14 probiotic strains and suitable for all ages)

Perhaps our favorite is Nature's Way Primadophilus Reuteri

Reuteri uniquely contains the "AGGH" protein that encourages colonization in the digestive tract. In clinical use, reuteri supplements effectively colonize in over 90% of patients.

And Reuteri offers important digestive health benefits
Reuteri promotes healthy digestion and intestinal integrity.* It improves intestinal cell structures (longer villi and deeper crypts) for more efficient nutrient uptake and better health.*

To learn more about the full line of Nature's Way Primadophilus probiotics, http://www.squidoo.com/natures-way-vitamins
To save 40-50% of Nature's Way prducts, visit http://www.houseofnutrition.com/naturesway1.html

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
The information provided here is for information purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from a physician or other health care professional or any information contained in product labeling. You should consult a healthcare professional before starting any diet, supplement or exercise program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem.

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House of Nutrition offers over 30,000 vitamins, minerals and nutritional products at prices that are 40-50% below suggested retail. Fast delivery, low prices, 30-day satisfaction guarantee and a staff of knowledgeable nutritionists have made House of Nutrition one of the largest and most trusted nutritional supplement retailers since 1991.