PROBIOTICS AND ITS EFFECT ON HUMAN HEALTH-A REVIEW

Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. Probiotics have been widely known for its beneficial effects on human health. They consist of different types of foods for many decades. Fermentation, is an old method that has been used to improve nutritional value and food preservation. Fermented dairy products and vegetables have been suitable means for consumption  of probiotics. In Africa, many of the seasoning agents are products of alkaline fermentation of  plant-seed, legume based products and in some cases, animal proteins and seafood. Consumption of probiotics have shown antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and cholesterol-lowering effects due to its symbiotic blend of bacteria and yeast. Probiotics contain antioxidants to protect the body from oxidative stress and chronic diseases. Probiotics support microbial diversity in the gut, enhances lactose digestion, reduce diarrhoea, aids digestion and improves lactose tolerance. Various types of bacteria are generally contained in probiotics, they are Lactobacillus, Streptococcus, Lactococcus, Enterococcus and Bifidobacterium. Although it has seemed that dairy products were the primary source of probiotic bacteria until now, the popularity of fruit and vegetable juices is increasing more rapidly. Previous studies have revealed some indigenous Nigerian local foods, beverages, staples and spices like pap, garri, palm wine, iru, ugba, etc, that we consume are actually excellent sources of probiotics. Probotics have been proposed as preventive and therapuetic measures, in order to restore the healthy composition and function of the gut microbiome. By incorporating probiotics into our diet and lifestyle, we can take a proactive approach to maintaining our health and preventing diseases.