Scleroderma

Most consumers are familiar with the dangers of disease-causing bacteria; but over the last several decades, medical professionals and lay consumers alike have discovered a host of proven and potential benefits to be had from the consumption of so-called “good” or “friendly” bacteria as well. These helpful microrganisms are referred to as probiotics: and while they are already common as digestive and regulatory aids for improved immunity, current research also suggests that some natural probiotic supplements may help minimize the severity of certain gastrointestinal conditions, autoimmune diseases, infections and inflammation as well.

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine defines probiotics as microorganisms (generally bacteria) that are similar to those “good” bacteria that occur naturally in the human gut. Most commonly available in the form of certain cultured or fermented foods (such as yogurt or kombucha tea), probiotics are also available in the form of dietary supplements. Common microbes used as probiotics include lactic acid bacteria, bifidobacteria, certain yeasts and bacilli, all of which are believed to help restore balance in the digestive tract for improved immunity and digestive function.

However, more recent studies have led medical experts to investigate and track the effect of probiotics on more specific conditions as well; and the results suggest that patients struggling with certain autoimmune diseases and other chronic health concerns could benefit greatly from the regular use of all-natural, specially-formulated probiotic supplements to reduce and treat troublesome symptoms.

As a safe and natural form of integrative therapy for digestive and immune disorders, probiotic supplements are an exciting option for patients seeking holistic treatment of inflammatory conditions, malabsorption or food intolerances (such as gluten allergies). At our San Diego integrative rheumatology clinic, we recommend two specific probiotic supplements – Bacillus coagulans and GoldenBiotic-8™ — to our autoimmune disease and arthritis patients. While both products are natural probiotics that complement one another during treatment, Bacillus coagulans is a unique probiotic suited specifically to inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, colitis and Crohn’s disease, while GoldenBiotic-8™ is a proprietary blend comprised of eight different microorganisms designed to restore gastrointestinal health for those suffering from malabsorption, leaky gut syndrome or chronic candidiasis.

When combined with conventional medical techniques and treatments, probiotics can offer patients significant symptom relief and improved quality of life in a safe, easy-to-use and all-natural manner.

Shikhman, A. (2012), "Natural probiotic supplements and improved immunity: an introduction to the powers of beneficial bacteria"; La JollaLight