Probiotics are destroyed by stomach acid.
This article will explore the world of probiotics, and how they travel through our digestive tract. This article will explore whether or not these good bacteria can survive in the acidic environment created by the stomach. We'll answer this question by examining scientific studies and research . Let's start our investigation of the interplay complex between probiotics, stomach acid and other factors.
Understanding Probiotics & Stomach Acid
It is important to know whether stomach acid destroys probiotics for several reasons. Probiotics are linked to a number of health benefits including better digestion, immune function and mental health. If these microbes die in the stomach before reaching the intestines their benefits could be reduced or even lost.
In fact, several studies show that some probiotics struggle in stomach acid. In a recent study , published in the International Journal of Food Microbiology, it was found that stomach acid exposure significantly decreased the viability of some strains of Lactobacillus, which are commonly used as probiotic supplements.
Important Points
It's important that you know that all probiotics do not react the same way to stomach acid. Some strains are designed specifically to resist stomach acid.
In a study published in the journal Beneficial Microbes, it was found that some probiotic strains such as Bacillus cohlians are resistant to stomach acids and can survive transit to the intestines. It is important to choose a probiotic that can survive transit through the digestive tract.
Probiotics in Stomach Acid: Examples and Survival Rates
- Lactobacillus Rhamnosus: This strain is relatively resistant to stomach acids.
- Bifidobacterium Lactis HN019 is resistant to stomach acids and associated with better digestion.
- Bacillus Coagulans: This strain, as mentioned above, is robust and can survive the passage through stomach.
- Saccharomyces boulardii : A yeast probiotic that is resistant to stomach acids.
- E. coli Nissle: This probiotic E. coli strain has shown itself to be very resistant against stomach acid.
Probiotics: Additional Tips to Maximize Benefits
Select a probiotic that is high quality and contains strains resistant to stomach acid. It should also be designed to survive the transit of your stomach. Probiotics taken with meals may help to buffer stomach acid's effects and increase the life expectancy of beneficial bacteria. Some research also suggests that probiotics taken at bedtime can help improve their survival, as stomach acidity drops at night.
Conclusion
While some strains of probiotics can be killed by stomach acids, others are engineered to survive this harsh environment. They reach the intestines unharmed. By choosing a probiotic that is high quality and using it properly, you can increase the likelihood of beneficial bacteria making it through your digestive tract.
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