Beneficial Bacteria Names

Beneficial bacteria represent a crucial category of bacteria predominantly found in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, especially within the intestines. These microorganisms play vital roles, such as protecting humans from numerous diseases caused by harmful bacteria overgrowth or due to a deficiency of beneficial bacteria. Additionally, they assist in the digestion process. Below are some notable types of beneficial bacteria:

Probiotics

Probiotics help maintain balance in the digestive system. Disruption of this balance can lead to various health issues during digestion. Their advantages include:

Reducing the risk of obesity.
Preventing and treating diarrhea.
Enhancing heart health by lowering bad cholesterol levels and reducing high blood pressure.

Probiotics can be found in various food sources, such as:

Yogurt.
Chilled potatoes.
Dark chocolate.
Garlic.
Pickles.

Bifidobacterium

Researchers have identified a specific strain of Bifidobacterium that may aid in repairing stomach ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium associated with increased ulcer risk. Studies in nutrition have indicated that Bifidobacterium could alleviate constipation in children.

Bacillus

Bacillus exists in dietary supplements that individuals use to address various health concerns. Its notable benefits include:

Treating gastrointestinal disorders, such as antibiotic-associated diarrhea and pediatric diarrhea.
Managing inflammatory bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome.
Reducing respiratory infections.
Enhancing immune response.

It is important to note that the Comprehensive Database of Natural Medicines has reported insufficient evidence to evaluate and confirm the efficacy of Bacillus for any of the aforementioned therapeutic applications.

Lactobacillus Acidophilus

Lactobacillus acidophilus resides in the intestines and aids in the digestion of food. It produces lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide as part of the digestive process, creating an environment unsuitable for harmful bacteria proliferation.

There are over 80 strains and species within the Lactobacillus genus. It is worth mentioning that one effective way to incorporate this beneficial bacteria into our diet is through the consumption of yogurt containing active cultures.

Thermophilus and Salivarius

These bacteria play crucial roles in the production of yogurt, cheese (like mozzarella), and various fermented dairy products. Their primary applications include:

Alleviating abdominal cramps.
Reducing diarrhea.
Mitigating nausea.
Relieving gastrointestinal symptoms associated with lactose intolerance.

Salivarius, another type of beneficial bacteria, has been shown to improve symptoms related to bad breath, as evidenced by a clinical study published in 2006 in the Journal of Applied Microbiology.

Lactobacillus

Lactobacillus bacteria are characterized by their rod-shaped appearance and are among the most prevalent beneficial bacteria, especially in dairy products and all fermented foods. They belong to the category of lactic acid bacteria and have therapeutic uses, contributing to diarrhea treatment and aiding in the digestion of lactose and sugars found in milk.