Today, we will discuss bacteria and the digestive tract. There are numerous bacteria that potentially reside within the GI tract, with some estimates suggesting between 300 to 400 species or even more. It’s believed that two to four pounds of bacteria, amounting to trillions of individual organisms, populate your digestive system. The main classes of bacteria in your gut include lactobacilli, bifida, streptococci, bacteroides, and pathogenic forms known as coliforms. Coliforms can sometimes be present in polluted water and may lead to health issues.
| Bacteria | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Lactobacilli | Found in the small intestine | Aids digestion, supports immune response |
| Bifida | Populates the large bowel | Reduces chances of digestive issues |
| Streptococci | Another gut bacteria | Function varies based on type |
| Bacteroides | Gut bacteria | Function varies |
| Coliforms | Potentially harmful if sourced from polluted water | Can lead to health issues |
Lactobacillus and bifida bacteria are generally considered the beneficial or healthy bacteria. Lactobacilli primarily reside in the small intestine, with about five or six different types known to be beneficial for gut health. Bifida bacteria, on the other hand, are more common in the large intestine. An interesting fact: exclusively breast-fed infants tend to have around 99 percent of their gut bacteria as bifida bacteria, with the remaining 1 percent comprising coliforms and streptococci. Every individual hosts a unique internal bacterial ecosystem, varying based on factors such as age and demographics.
The presence of bacteria is vital for food digestion; without them, we would struggle to break down our food. A rich presence of beneficial bacteria ensures a comfortable digestive system, leading to fewer digestive issues like bloating and gas. Such a healthy balance also strengthens immune responses, reducing the chances of ailments like leaky gut, excessive antibody production, and even certain types of cancers. For instance, an antibiotic produced by lactobacillus acidophilus called Acidophilin has anti-tumor properties. Boosting beneficial bacteria can also lower the risk of numerous chronic diseases. For individuals dealing with yeast infections, an abundance of lactobacilli and bifida is essential to counteract the growth of Candida albicans predominant in the gut.
In our book “Candida Crusher”, we delve deeper into related topics and answer many questions surrounding prebiotics, probiotics, and different strains of lactobacilli. We appreciate the overwhelming number of questions we receive on these topics and aim to provide thorough and informative answers.
Disclaimer: While we strive to provide accurate and helpful information, it is important to consult with your healthcare professional for personalized advice and recommendations.