Probiotics

Probiotics contain live bacteria that can help to keep the digestive system healthy.

The human digestive system is home to more than 100 trillion bacteria. There are over 100 different types of bacteria living in the digestive system, some are helpful and some are harmful to health. A healthy balance of bacteria helps to keep the digestive system healthy.

Probiotic products contain live bacteria, some of which survive digestion and can have a helpful effect on the friendly bacteria living in the digestive system. In most people the correct balance of friendly bacteria is maintained in the digestive system by eating a variety of healthy foods.

Probiotic products include:

• yoghurts and drinking yoghurts
• fermented milk drinks
• dried powders
• capsules

The growth of helpful bacteria in the digestive system is supported by eating plenty of fibre-rich foods including:

• fruit and vegetables
• dried beans and lentils
• wholegrain, breads and cereals

Not all yoghurts and fermented foods are 'probiotic'. An Accredited Practising Dietitian can provide expert advice on which foods and drinks contain probiotic bacteria.