Probiotics Among Us

If you have ever had a nasty infection that won't go away, you probably understand why it is that antibiotics are sometimes necessary. Sometimes, not always and definitely not when you have a sniffle and run down to Dr. Everything Be Alright (thanks, Prince!) who writes you a script for some Cipro. No, not good, not necessary.

The thing is when antibiotics kill the bad bacteria that makes the crunk go away, the good bacteria go along with it. They are obliterated and it's no wonder that other problems ensue from the fact that the delicate balance in your intestinal tract especially (where some say disease begins) is upset.

The answer? Probiotics.

Probiotics are the good bacteria; the things that keep your body running as it should, the yin to the yang of the bad bacteria. They've been reported to help keep your skin clear to your gastrointestinal system running smooth. That's why yogurt (not fro-yo, yo, but real yogurt) is so good for you. It contains the billions of the micro-organisms with crazy names like Lactobacillus

But before you go stocking up on some of the boutique-style yogurts out there, or coconut, soy or goat milk varieties, which aren't cheap. Check out this piece in the New York Times about how effective these probiotic-containing products are.

You can buy them in the health food store (usually refrigerated) if yogurt isn't your thing. But again, educate yourself, be a well-informed consumer remembering along the way that they can't hurt, and it's possible that they might actually help.

Photo courtesy Ruben Joye@sxc.hu