Bifidobacterium Are Good Bacteria
Bifidobacterium are one of the major strains of bacteria that inhabit the large intestinal track in mammals. They are a natural beneficial flora beneficial flora or good bacteria that ferments sugars to produce lactic acid, hydrogen peroxide and acetic acid.
Bacterial Overgrowth and Our Intestinal Balance
When our digestive systems are not in balance, pathogenic or “bad” bacteria can colonize (otherwise known as bacterial overgrowth) and infect the mucosal layer of our intestinal tracks. When the mucosal lining is damaged, it becomes porous and weakens its ability to absorb vital nutrients and prevent pathogens/toxins from entering our bloodstreams. This kicks off the immune response in our bodies. Sufferers from chronic diarreaha, yeast infections, Candida overgrowth, Crohn’s disease, Inflammatory Bowel disease (IBD) and ulcerative colitis have been found to show very low counts of bifidobacterium in their large intestine and colon.
When you consider that all babies are born without any bacteria in their digestive systems and the first to colonize are Bifidobacterium, you see just how important they are. They really are one of the most important helpful bacteria we need in our guts.
Why are Bifidobacterium Considered Good Bacteria?
Bifidobacterium produce lactic acid which increases the acidity of the large intestine and deters further growth of other harmful pathogenic bacteria. Thus they regulate the microbial balance in the small and large intestine, reduce lactose intolerance, strengthen our immune systems, facilitate vitamin/protein synthesis and aid digestion and absorption.
Bifidobacterium are predominantly found in the lower part of the colon where their success is due in large part to their ability to metabolize complex carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates contain fiber. Such food groups include: cellulose (greens, fruits and vegetables) and wheat bran. We already know that fiber is good for us for many reasons, and having bifido bacteria in our guts can decrease pathogenic bacterial overgrowth.
Where can I find Bifidobacterium?
As we age the numbers of Bifidobacterium decline, therefore it is important to supplement our diets with this good bacteria. These healthy bacteria can be found in fermented dairy foods, such as yogurt, butter, cheeses, probiotic drinks and supplements.
An easy way to ensure that you have enough of this good bacteria in your gut is to take a high potency probiotic supplement like Ultimate Flora Critical Care 50 Billion.
Here’s a video of Brenda Watson founder of Renew Life discussing the importance of good bacteria, Bifidobacterium:
