b'The Science of ProbioticsThe two most prevalent types of probiotic bacteria that live in your gut are Lactobacillus, found in the small intestine, and Bifidobacterium, which resides in the large intestine. Not only do these two types of bacteria favorably alter the microbial balance in the intestines; they also promote good digestion and may help ease the symptoms of some chronic digestive disorders.Several large studies show that probiotics can reduce antibiotic-associated diarrhea. One meta-analysis of 17 clinical trials involving 3,631 participants found that those who took probiotics proactively had a 51 percent lower risk of developing diarrhea while on antibiotics compared to those who did not take probiotics. Plus, the probiotics were safe and well tolerated. Other research shows that probiotic supplementation is also effective for reducing diarrhea among those undergoing radiation treatments for abdominal or pelvic cancer. Another common malady improved by probiotics is irritable bowel syndrome. According to one review that appeared in the American Journal of Gastroenterology found that simply boosting the number of friendly microbes in the gut via probiotic supplementation may reduce abdominal pain, bloating, and flatulence in those with IBS. A study of 233 people with IBS found that one specific speciesBifidobacterium longumwas especially beneficial for reducing IBS symptoms in those with constipation. Lactobacillus rhamnosus is another type of bacteria that fortifies the intestinal barrier and reduces IBS symptoms by up to 42 percent.Luckily, while IBS can be painful, it doesnt lead to serious damage. Inflammatory bowel disease, on the other hand, triggers inflammation in the gut that can cause physical damage to the gut wall. Crohns Feed Your Beneficial BacteriaLike any living organism, the beneficial bacteria in your gut need food to thrive. Prebiotics are a nondigestible type of soluble fiber that promote the growth and proliferation of good gut bacteria. But preliminary evidence shows that prebiotics dont just feed beneficial bacteria. They may also play an independent role in digestive health by doing the following: improving antibiotic-associated diarrheaeasing travelers diarrheasoothing gastroenteritisnormalizing bowel functionimproving colitisreducing irritable bowel problemsSome probiotic supplements include prebiotics. These products, known as synbiotics, have been shown to improve both the microbiome and gut immunity. Check the supplement facts label for one or more of the following prebiotic oligosaccharides: fructooligosaccharides, inulins, isomaltooligosaccharides, lactitol, lactosucrose, lactulose, oligofructose, or transgalactooligosaccharides. 8THE G O OD GUT'