There are literally hundreds of different beneficial microorganisms which support our intestinal flora helping us digest our foods. Billions!
It’s a win-win scenario by which when we provide a home to the beneficial microorganisms they in turn protect us from food born disease.
These beneficial microorganisms break down (metabolize) those foods we eat so that they can be absorbed into our body’s cells.
Lactobacillus Acidophilus
For example, Lactobacillus Acidophilus which possesses Probiotic qualities grows naturally within the human intestines.
This is the strain you most commonly see added to dairy products like Yogurts.
Research has shown that L. Acidophilus improves intestinal function and the immune system.
Additionally, Lactobacillus Casei is one of many microorganisms alive within human intestines. It works to help maintain and assist other friendly forms of bacteria like the L. Acidophilus which produces an enzyme called Amylase.
If you tend to eat a lot of carbohydrate rich foods this is what will aid you in digesting them. The L. Acidophilus also helps lactose intolerant individuals digest milk easier. This particular strain was discovered in naturally fermenting beans.
Yakult Drink
Another beneficial bacterium for maintaining intestinal flora is the Lactobacillus Casei Shirota variety. This is the cultured bacteria you can drink in small bottles of liquid called Yakult®. Yakult was originally developed in Japan by Minoru Shirota in the 1930’s. It is made from fermenting low fat milk with the Lactobacillus Casei Shirota type of bacteria.
Certain drinks (carbonated beverages among others) and processed foods (additives and preservatives to name a few) destroy intestinal flora. Taking Antibiotics will kill both beneficial and bad bacteria. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables promote superior intestinal health and healthy gut flora
Yakult has allegedly done extensive research into the benefits of intestinal flora. They proclaim drinking their bottled liquid helps maintain intestinal flora, improves immune system function, making you more regular and less constipated. The original culture from Japan is added to all Yakult manufactured throughout the world.
*I used to drink Yakult, but now use domestic unflavored non-fat Yogurt to save money. I eat about a tablespoon a day. I believe it does the job well enough…
Cultured Vegetables
An option to help keep the intestines strong through intestinal flora is to eat Raw Cultured Vegetables. These are vegetables which have been fermented having friendly bacteria in them.
One example of a fermented vegetable is Sauerkraut. It can be made at home very easily. People for thousands of years throughout the world traditionally have been making their own cultured veggies. You can order a kit to get you started.
Cultured vegetables are rich in Lactobacilli, enzymes, and are probiotic. The veggies are alkaline retaining their vitamins and will keep your elimination system moving because they cause a cleansing reaction
Cultured vegetables are basically pre-digested which means friendly bacteria have already actively helped to convert the veggie into lactic acid. If your system is acidic the veggies will help balance your system because they are alkaline.
Washing ones hands is an essential safeguard in preventing unfriendly food born bacteria. For example, ‘Salmonella’ can come from raw chicken even from unwashed fruits and vegetables.
Promptly refrigerate leftovers and make sure you wash your hands before you touch other foods (especially after handling meat) you are preparing. This will do much in avoiding sickness in yourself and those you hold dear.
