Lactic ferments: what they are, what they are used for and when to take them

When you suffer from intestinal diseases or disorders, we often resort to lactic ferments. Let’s find out in detail what they are, the main benefits and when to take them.

Lactic ferments, before being one of the most common solutions for gastrointestinal disorders, are bacteria capable of transforming lactose. Despite being so well known and used, there is often a tendency to confuse their content and composition . In this article we will try to shed some light by explaining what they are, what effect they have on the body and when to use them.

Lactic ferments: what they are

As we anticipated, lactic ferments are bacteria capable of transforming lactose , so they are not really medicines. Nonetheless, they are present in many foods, such as cheese or yogurt, and are used as a supplement for the intestinal flora.

That said, a distinction needs to be made between lactose bacteria. In fact, only probiotic bacteria are able to metabolize lactose and implement useful processes for the body. Therefore we can say that probiotics are a category of ferments.

In any case, there are also other types of bacteria, such as prebiotics, which have different functions and do not contribute to the well – being of the body. However, we can say that probiotic bacteria are live and active lactic ferments, and if taken in adequate doses, they can offer many benefits.

Lactic ferments: what they are for

To understand well what lactic ferments are used for, you must first understand what effects they have on the body. These elements in fact serve to protect the intestine from external bacteria, but in reality they perform a protective function for the whole organism. They also help the functions of the colon , preventing irritable bowel syndrome and other problems.

Most often, however, they are used to rebalance and stabilize the activity of the intestinal bacterial flora, even after taking particularly powerful drugs . In general we can say that it is possible to supplement them through the diet by consuming cheese or yogurt.

The various types of lactic ferments

We have just talked about probiotics, but we must know that there are other types of lactic ferments. These, in addition to rebalancing the bacterial flora, perform other functions. Among the most widespread and used, we can find the Lactobacillus , of which the following types are reported:

– Casei , perfect for treating gastrointestinal problems such as bloating, diarrhea or constipation and particularly suitable for protecting the intestine when taking antibiotics.

– Bulgaricus , able to increase the acidity of the intestine, making it inhospitable for pathogenic bacteria.

– Acidophilus , in addition to normal functions, is an excellent source of B vitamins and promotes digestion, preventing swelling.

– Rhamnosus , especially indicated for intestinal problems, respiratory infections and dermatitis.

Lactic ferments: when to take them

As we have said, eating yogurt and cheese is the best way to integrate lactic ferments into our body, but let’s try to understand when to use them. In fact, even if in general there are no contraindications, it is good to use these products to treat pathologies such as:

-cystitis
-constipation
– urinary tract infections
-diarrhea
-candida

In any case, it is possible to find many types of enzymes, suitable for all situations, but all of them can guarantee the restoration of the bacterial flora.

Cover photo source: https://pixabay.com/it/photos/ibs-probiotics-intestino-stomaco-5308379/