The literal translation of Pro-biotic means “in favour of life”. They may be bacteria, but they most certainly are our friends. There are many bacteria known as beneficial to our health, each one is unique in its own right.
Bacteria names consist of three parts: the genus (Lactobacillus), species (acidophilus) and the strain (for example, BFE 1685). The genus and species tell us about their properties and where the probiotic may exert its effects within the digestive tract. However it is the specific strain that really sets one apart from the other. The probiotic strain will tell you the amount of medical research behind the specific probiotic.
The table below lists some common friendly bacteria and what they’re used for:
Bacteria Name
What’s it best for?
Special notes
Lactobacillus acidophilus
Best for preventing gastrointestinal infections in adults because it boosts your immune system.
Also taken for the prevention of traveller’s diarrhoea (acquired from contaminated food).
Can be given to newborns and infants. Discuss with your doctor/health provider first.
Lactobacillus plantarum
Regulates how your gastrointestinal tract propels food (improves motility).
Lactobacillus plantarum LP299V has shown to have a positive effect on people suffering from IBS (irritable bowel syndrome)
Lactococcus lactis
This bacterium has the capability to produce both riboflavin (vitamin B2) and folate (vitamin B9).
Bifidobacterium longum
A normal resident of your gastrointestinal tract, this good bacteria prevents harmful bugs from setting up camp in your colon. In addition, it optimises the function of your immune system and prevents chronic constipation.
New evidence suggests using this bacteria topically in skin preparations may improve sensitive, reactive skin.
Streptococcus thermophilus
If you have relied heavily on antibiotics you may have experienced antibiotic associated diarrhoea (AAD). Taking probiotics which contain Streptococcus thermophilus have been shown to decrease diarrhoea.
Can be given to children to support their growth rate.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Diarrhoea in children is most commonly caused by rotavirus. Lactobacillus rhamnosus has shown benefit in the prevention of diarrhoea caused by rotaviruses.
Allergic to peanuts? Recent Australian research shows this probiotic is noted for its ability to modify the allergic response to peanuts in children.
Lactobacillus casei
One of the most popular probiotics out on the market for several years, Lactobacillus casei inhibits the growth of Helicobacter pylori. (Helicobacter pylori is one of the culprits which cause you to have peptic ulcers)
Safe for your kids, especially when they have diarrhoea.
Lactobacillus reuteri
Supports general health and wellness in both adults and children, especially intestinal and oral health.
It has been proven that infants fed with this probiotic have fewer sick days, fewer doctor visits and increased overall health.
Bifidobacterium infantis
Relieves symptoms in IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) patients.
Beneficial for people of all ages.
Lactobacillus bulgaricus
Helps to suppress the growth of harmful bacteria in your colon.
Bifidobacterium lactis
People afflicted with coeliac disease may benefit the most from this probiotic which has shown to protect intestinal cells from damage caused by gluten.
Lactobacillus helveticus
Best for those with high blood pressure.
In addition, Lactobacillus helveticus removes the allergens from your food and increases the bioavailability of nutrients in your intestines.
Bacillus subtilis
This bacterium enhances the growth of other bacteria.
It’s also used to produce a multitude of enzymes like proteases (nattokinase) and amylase.
Bacillus coagulans
Improves gastrointestinal health.
This bacterium is noted for competing with other bad bacteria like Clostridium difficile (causes colitis) and Helicobacter pylori (causes ulcers).
Saccharomyces boulardii
Best for diarrhoea associated with antibiotic use.
Suitable for infants and children to prevent diarrhoea.
It is clear that Probiotic bacteria provide a multitude of benefits for our digestive and overall health. Remember, choose a probiotic formula with a guaranteed viability of strains backed by research. Don’t just rush to the health store and buy the most expensive ones containing the highest amounts. Find the best probiotic for your needs.
Montville, T. J., Matthews, K. R., & Kniel, K. E. (2012). Food microbiology: an introduction (3rd ed.). Washington, DC: ASM Press.
Doyle, M. P., & Buchanan, R. (Eds.). (2013). Food microbiology: fundamentals and frontiers (4th ed.). Washington, DC: American Society for Microbiology Press.
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