Essential Flora - What's in it for you?
120 mg (30Billion CFU)
DE111 (bacillus subtilis) is a dedicated antagonist to viral, fungal and bacterial pathogens. Known as the ultimate grass bacteria, bacillus subtilis is thought to be the reason why dogs and other non-grazers eat grass when they are ill.
One of the most researched organisms in history, its widespread use in humans burst upon the scene in 1941 during the second World War when it was heralded for its ability to halt dysentery (severe life-threatening diarrhea). Today it is prized worldwide for its immune stimulating properties.
Bacillus coagulans is a spore forming, lactic acid producing probiotic that is both acid and temperature stable. It is valued for its ability to produce enzymes that facilitate digestion and stimulate immunity.
Lactobacillus acidophilus - By far the most important bacterial resident of the small intestine is L. acidophilus. This is the colonizer, the inhabitant that constitutes the first line of defense against alien invaders as well as opportunistic organisms like yeasts. It even helps to keep your heart healthy by lowering the levels of cholesterol in the blood. When present in significant numbers, they prevent pathogens form lining the intestinal walls. If too many colonies of intestinal bacteria build up, nutrient absorption can be blocked. Fortunately, when the walls are crowded with acidophilus colonizers, there is no room for newcomers.
Bifidobacterium lactis - Research studies have shown B. lactis has significant immunological effects. This strain resists acid digestion and the action of bile salts, survives intestinal transit and reaches the colon in significant numbers. This strain also helps constipation, helps prevent diarrhea, especially in children, and decreases chronic inflammation of the sigmoid colon. In addition, its antimicrobial properties decrease the effects of negative bacteria, especially clostridia.
Bifodobacteria longum - Researchers report that B. longum was able to eliminate the nitrates commonly found in foods ingested by humans. Normal levels of nitrates ingested by humans are not able to destroy this strain. It may also significantly inhibit the development and growth of colon, liver and breast cancers in laboratory animal models.
L. rhamnosus - This is one of the most thoroughly studied probiotic strains. Its advantages in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders are well documented. It has been associated with the alleviation or prevention of disorders such as lactose intolerance, viral and bacterial diarrhea, adverse effectors of abdominal radiotherapy, constipation, inflammatory bowel disease, and food allergy according to Applied Environmental Microbiology, Jan. 1999. It has been shown to inhibit the growth of tumors. It is an organism of human origin that survives in the gastrointestinal tract, and has evidence proving its ability to inhibit the formation of human colon cancers.
L. rhamnosus has demonstrated an increased resistance to vaginitis and urinary tract infections. More recently, there has been evidence linking a lactobacilli vaginal deficiency with sexually transmitted diseases including AIDS. It has also been shown to inhibit the growth of a variety of bacterial species. One researcher reports, "L. rhamnosus may be considered as one of the most important lactobacilli, if not the best."
Lactobacillus salivarius- This particular microorganism has the unique ability to eradicate the dreaded Helicobacter pylori (H. Pylori) bacteria, which is considered a major cause of peptic ulcers. It interferes with the normal defenses against stomach acid and/or produces a toxin that contributes to peptic ulcer formation. The traditional treatment involves antibiotics, but this does not always eradicate the organism and is often accompanied by harmful side effects. It can also become resistant to antibiotics. L. salivarius was discovered by researchers to be able to produce a high amount of lactic acid and thus completely inhibit the growth of H. pylori and reduce associated inflammatory response. It is also effective against pathogenic organisms such as Salmonella typhimurium.
Lactobacillus casei- This microorganism is reported in Microbiology and Immunology to have the most potent protective activity against the potentially lethal Listeria bacteria than any other bacteria. About 30% of those infected with listeria die. Listeria infect shellfish, birds, spiders and mammals (including cows) in all areas of the world. It is transmitted to humans by direct contact with infected animals or their secretions, by breathing infected dust, or through contact with contaminated sewage or soil. It is most commonly transmitted through consumption of contaminated dairy products and raw vegetables. The most common form of Listeriosis is meningitis (infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord), which if left untreated can result coma and death. L. casei is being studied for use as a vaccine against sexually transmitted diseases, and also for use with tumors in cancer patients.
Bifidobacteria breve - This unique microorganism proved effective in lowering cholesterol by 104 points in a three-month study performed at the G.B. Pant hospital in New Delhi, India. There was a highly significant reduction in the LDL cholesterol levels, and a small but significant increase in HDL cholesterol levels. Use of this microorganism is an attractive alternative to drug therapy since there are no side effects.
Lactobacillus plantarum - This strain is the dominating bacterial species in most naturally fermented foods. It is an excellent alternative to antibiotics, and makes use of its potential to block receptor sites for gram-negative bacteria. L. plantarum is capable of metabolizing semi resistant fibers, such as onions, garlic, artichoke, wheat, oat, rye, bacteria bananas, and yeast. It is also an important tool in anti-microbial defense and is effective both against extra-and intercellular pathogens.