The gut or intestinal microflora consists of:
- Health promoting or "good" bacteria
- Potentially harmful, pathogenic or "bad" bacteria.
When the good bacteria outnumber the bad bacteria, our immune system is at its optimal level. The good bacteria form a protective barrier to keep harmful bacteria out. This helps to maintain a healthy intestinal tract and stimulate the body's natural defenses.
If the balance between good and bad bacteria is disturbed, the body may become less efficient in absorbing the nutrients it require. This may lead to digestive and health problems. Studies have linked a healthy balance of good bacteria in the colon with an improved state of one's overall well being.
The main types of good bacteria include Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Streptococcus and Lactococcus and its sub-strains.
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