H.O.P.E Formula: Probiotics

What are Probiotics?

Probiotics are the beneficial bacteria that live in your digestive tract. Literally translated, the word probiotic means “for life,” and the World Health Organization defines these good bacteria as, “live microorganisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host”.

Because nearly three-quarters of the body’s immune system is located in the digestive tract, maintaining a healthy balance of intestinal bacteria is essential to your overall health. The two most prevalent probiotics are Lactobacilli, which make up the majority of the probiotics living in your small intestine, and Bifidobacteria, the most prevalent probiotics residing in your large intestine.

What Are Some of the Benefits of Probiotics?

• Promote healthy digestive and immune function*
• Help maintain healthy colon cells*
• Promote bowel regularity*
• Support the body’s natural detoxification processes*
• Assist with the manufacture of digestive enzymes*
• Assist with nutrient absorption*
• Create an unfriendly environment for potentially harmful bacteria and yeast*

Your Bacterial Balance is the Key to Your Good Health

You have both good and bad bacteria in your digestive system. A healthy bacterial balance is approximately 80% good (or neutral) bacteria to approximately 20% bad bacteria. If those harmful bacteria are allowed to flourish, your health may suffer.

Consequences of Bacterial Imbalance

The consequences of too few beneficial bacteria (probiotics) may include diarrhea, constipation, gas and bloating, yeast overgrowth and vaginal yeast infections, decreased immune function, lactose intolerance, impaired digestion and even skin disruptions.

How Many Probiotics Should You Take Each Day?

There is no exact science to answer this question, but generally the more beneficial bacteria you have, the better your ability will be to fight harmful bacteria in the gut. The H.O.P.E. Formula recommends between 6 billion and 50 billion active cells each day, depending on your age and individual need. Studies have shown that our level of good intestinal bacteria declines with age, so older adults may benefit from a higher culture count.

While some nutrients (such as vitamins) are measured in grams or milligrams, probiotics are measure in units called “active cultures”. Adults should consume between 6 and 15 billion active cultures daily, and those over 50 should take 30 to 50 billion active cultures daily. For critical care needs, 50 billion or more active cultures are recommended.

How Do You Maintain a Healthy Balance of Intestinal Bacteria?

Eating a diet rich in fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir (a fermented milk drink) and sauerkraut will support a healthy bacterial balance. You should also eat plenty of fiber, since fiber is a preferred food source for good bacteria and helps them flourish. Taking a balanced probiotic that contains both Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli is also essential.

Choosing the Right Probiotic Supplement

When deciding which probiotic is right for your needs, there are three important factors to consider:

Does it contain both Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli? These are the two most prevalent probiotics in your digestive system, and both are equally important. Unfortunately, many probiotic supplements contain high amounts of Lactobacilli and not enough Bifidobacteria. Be sure to choose a probiotic supplement that has a high amount of each to ensure that both the small and large intestine are supported.

Is it right for my age? Research has proven that as we age, the probiotic population in our intestines decreases. Therefore, it is important to increase our probiotic intake by choosing an age-specific supplement.

What is the delivery method? Make sure that the probiotic you choose is either enteric-coated or uses BIO-Tract™ tableting. Both methods of delivery ensure that the beneficial probiotics have the extra assistance necessary to bypass the harsh acidic environment of the stomach and get delivered directly to the intestines where they are best utilized.

*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.