What are probiotics and why are they good for your stomach?

If you visit the yogurt section of your local supermarket you will probably find that half the products contain probiotics.

But what are probiotics and why do you need them? The official definition of probiotics is "live microorganisms administered in adequate amounts which confer a beneficial health effect on the host". In simple terms, they are small bacteria designed to maintain the natural balance of organisms in your body.

Probiotics help out the naturally occurring friendly bacteria in your stomach, which are one of the key components of a healthy immune system.

Probiotics are particularly useful when you're taking or intend to take antibiotics. This is because although antibiotics kill whatever it is that's making you unwell, they also obliterate your beneficial bacteria.

A probiotic supplement or sizeable amounts of probiotic yogurt can help your stomach reinforce it's friendly bacteria and therefore aid recovery and prevent further infection.

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