Understanding Probiotics 

What are the benefits of taking probiotics? 

By Dr.Roni DeLuz  PHD, RN, ND 

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria or yeasts in the form of a dietary supplement that restore good bacteria in the colon. Taking probiotics can replenish the natural gut flora that thrives in the digestive system. Doctors and nutritionists often recommend these, particularly after someone has had a course of antibiotics. Many health professionals believe that probiotics help to increase the strength of the immune system and help combat allergies as well as assist in regulating the gut flora. 

Acidophilus is a common probiotic often found in yogurts and other dairy foods. As people get older, eat meat, travel, and use prescription drugs, the good gut flora in the digestive tract begins to decline. Much of this flora typically helps the immune system and fights off disease, but as their numbers decline this protection declines as well. 

In addition to helping the body stay disease free, gut flora also helps to digest nutrients, vitamins and enzymes, especially the lactose in milk and dairy products. Probiotics help to supplement those floras and replace those that have died off. Daily intake of foods that contain probiotics helps with a number of digestive issues, such as constipation. They can also help to increase the amount of nutrients we absorb, reduce blood cholesterol and even help to protect against tumors and colon cancer. Other health benefits of probiotics include: 

• Preventing gas
• Preventing bloating
• Preventing bad breath
• Replenishing “good” bacteria after use of antibiotics
• Enhancing the function of the immune system
• Helping digest food
• Preventing constipation

• Lactobacillus acidophilus
• Lactobacillus casei
• Bifidobacterium longum
• Bifidobacterium bifidum
• Saccharomyces boulardii

The lactobacillus strain is helpful to the small intestine, while the bifidobacteria strains are helpful to the large intestine, as they generally reside in these areas. 

Interestingly, vegetarians tend to have a healthy balance of “good” and “bad” bacteria, while people who eat meat tend to have larger amounts of “bad” bacteria, particularly bacteroids. Probiotics not only have a positive effect on the colon, but also in other systems of the body; including skin, respiratory, and genital-urinary tracts.

Visit our products page to purchase the following recommended products and to learn more about probiotics.   

Recommended Products 

Probiotic Science A comprehensive blend of 4 good bacteria strains essential to digestive health. Promotes improved digestion and helps maintain an un-inflamed gut. 50 capsules  $29.99 + S&H 

Colon Cleanse A 2-week cleansing program formulated to support digestive health. Vegetarian formula provides FOS to fuel growth of good colonic bacteria plus herbs and fibers to help clear out pollution and toxins. 120 Capsules. $32.99 + S&H 

Digest-EZ  Digest-EZ® digestive enzymes have been formulated to aid the body in the natural process of digestion. Its combination of broad spectrum digestive enzymes, herbal components, activating alfalfa nutrients, and the metabolic enzyme Catalase provides a scientifically balanced formula which promotes healthy digestion and overall body health.  120 Capsules.  $31.20 + S&H 

Adaptogreen Plus An antioxidant formula to support immune resistance, reduce toxic buildup, and increase energy and vitality while combating stress. It also cleanses the system, regulates pH balance and helps with weight loss.  $29.99 + S&H 

Back to Articles

Click to see Dr. Roni on The View

Holistic Spa Annex Now Open! Announcing our sister property, the Holistic Spa Annex, located in Vineyard Haven on Martha's Vineyard. Call (508) 693-0001 or email now to book your one-day detox along with a variety of holistic treatments and services.

In the Press: check for our latest articles and press.

On-site Retreat: visit us on Martha's Vineyard and get the jump start you need to change your health.

Consultations: Contact Dr. Roni for a private phone consultation at an hourly rate.

Detox Spa Retreat at the Mansion House Inn:
With a focus on weight loss, future weight maintenance and anti aging, our new Spa Retreat at the Mansion House offers a new way to detox for those who prefer a luxurious environment.