Probiotics are live microorganisms, known as the "friendly bacteria", that help maintain the natural balance of organisms in the human body. They are vital for a healthy immune system, protect against disease-causing organisms and aid in digestion and absorption of nutrients. 

There are a variety of strains available, there are different bacteria prevalent in different areas of the body. 

• Lactobacillus acidophilus
• Bifidobacterium
• Saccharomyces boulardii

Schedule an appointment with one of our providers today to find out which supplement would be best for your health! Here are some of the products we currently carry: 

• Cynthia's Choice Multi-Probiotic: Contains 15 billion CFU including lactobacillus acidophilus, L. rhamnosus, B. lactis, L. lactis, B. longum, B. bifidum, L. gasseri, and S. thermophius. Contains Gelatin. 
• Florajen: Contains Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacertium lactis and Bifidobacterium longum. Non-Dairy Source. Does not contain yeast, sugar, soy, eggs, corn, wheat, gluten, coloring or preservatives
  
• Douglas Laboratories: Multi-Probiotic 4000. Contains L. Acidophilus, L. Rhamnosus, L. Rhamnosus (Type B, Bifidus), S. Lactis, Bifidobacterium longum, B. Bifidum, S. Thermophilus. Contains Gelatin. 
• Metagenics: Ultra Flora Plus DF Capsules: Contains 15 billion CFU of 50:50 blend of Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis. This product is gluten free and does not include wheat, soy, nuts, tree nuts, fish, crustacean shellfish, colors, artificial sweeteners, flavors or preservatives. 
• Douglas Laboratories: InfaSkin Probiotic: specially formulated for pregnant women and babies! Contains 3 billion CFU of Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium lactis and Lactococcus lactis. Contains milk and soy. 

A healthy balance of bacteria in the GI system may be altered by disease-causing bacteria, fungi and parasites. Drugs (like antibiotics), alcohol, and toxin exposure can alter this delicate balance, leading to an overgrowth of bacteria, yeast, or harmful organisms. 
Several scientific studies have shown that probiotics can be used to treat the following diseases and conditions: 

• Diarrhea
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• GI Infections like Clostridium difficle (C. diff)
• Urinary tract infections
• Vaginal bacterial or yeast infections
• Reduce incidence of bladder cancer
• Eczema and dermatitis in children
• Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohns's disease and Ulcerative Colitis)
• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection 
• Stomach and respiratory infections children acquire in Daycare
• Skin infections
• Support regular immune system function
• Prevent and reduce the severity of colds and flu

Fermented foods: 

• Yogurt
• Miso
• Tempeh
• Sauerkraut
• Fermented and Unfermented Milk
• Some Juices and Soy Products