Why are they called friendly bacteria?
Normally we associate bacteria with infections (e.g. the infamous “golden staph”). But did you know that your stomach and intestines contain over 400 different species of bacteria? In fact, it is essential that you are outnumbered cell-for-cell, about 10 to 1 by the bugs in your gut! The reason you have these enormous numbers of bacteria inside you is not because you have been infected, but because humans have developed a mutually beneficial symbiotic relationship with them. We give the bacteria somewhere to live, and in return they help us digest food, make certain nutrients for us that we cannot make ourselves (such as vitamin B12), and help maintain our immunity, gastrointestinal health and general wellbeing. The benefits of probiotics for your overall health and wellbeing cannot be underestimated. Your healthcare practitioner will be able to advise you about the right probiotic for your needs.
