When you hear the word “bacteria,” the first thought that comes to mind is disease, but did you know that most bacteria are not harmful? These creatures perform many useful functions everywhere on earth.
For example, the species of bacteria that live in our intestines help us with digestion. Bacteria in the soil use the remains of dead plants and animals to recycle nutrients. Similarly, bacteria living in the ocean eliminate greenhouse gases that warm the climate.
Humans have used this power of bacteria for various purposes. Some bacteria have also been used to make medicines, while some bacteria help in cleaning pollution and storing energy.
Because we need certain types of bacteria in our bodies to stay healthy, some foods, such as yogurt and other dairy products, contain these bacteria. If you ever see a food packaging that says live culture, it means that the food contains healthy bacteria.
Following are some examples of some of the beneficial bacteria found in our body that help maintain our health.
Stomach/intestinal bacteria:
Lactobacillus: Helps maintain acidity levels in the gut.
Bifidobacterium: Aids digestion, produces vitamins and inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria in the intestines.
E.Coli: It produces vitamin K and prevents harmful bacteria from growing in the intestines.
Skin bacteria:
Staphylococcus epidermidis: Helps maintain the skin’s pH level and prevents harmful bacteria from accumulating on the skin.
Propionbacterium acnes: These are usually found on the skin and are active against overgrown acne/pimples.
Bacteria in the mouth:
Streptococcus salivarius: Found in the mouth and throat. They help maintain the internal health of the mouth by fighting harmful bacteria.
Varieties of Lactobacillus: These are present in the mouth and also play a role in oral health by reducing the growth of harmful bacteria.
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