Bluebonnet Nutritions

Hydrochloric Acid

Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is produced by the stomach and is utilized to convert some inactive proteolytic enzymes into their active forms, thereby, aiding the body in the digestion of proteins, as well as supplying the body with the amino acids it needs for proper structure and function. Furthermore, HCl lowers the pH in the gut. Betaine HCl is derived from beets, a natural, vegetarian source of HCl.

Probiotics

According to an expert evaluation by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in 2001, probiotics are characterized as “live microorganisms, which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host.” Probiotic bacterium, such as lactobacillus acidophilus, lactobacillus bulgaricus and bifidobacterium favorably alter the intestinal microflora balance in the body, aiding in the digestion of foods and enhancing immune health. Lactobacilli and bifidobacterium are non-pathogenic microorganisms that maintain a healthy balance of intestinal flora by producing organic compounds, such as lactic acid, hydrogen peroxide and acetic acid that tend to lower the pH of the intestines.

Healthy microbes like probiotics colonize in the GI tract and are important components of the immune system. In fact, they serve to prime or stimulate the immune system. There are many different strains of healthy microbes; however, L. bulgaricus, the champion of the transient flora, intensifies the growth and helpful activity of L. acidophilus and B. bifidum. L. bulgaricus also sweeps metabolic waste and chemical toxins out of the intestines. L. acidophilus helps to maintain the healthy environment of the small intestines, while B. bifidum helps to maintain the healthy environment of the large intestines.

FOS (fructooligosaccharides) is known as a “prebiotic,” a term used to describe a substance that is conducive to the formation of life. It is a short-chain, nondigestible oligosaccharide, which provides a food source for the healthy growth of favorable bacteria in the intestines which leads to the production of short chain fatty acids. These short chain fatty acids tend to lower intestinal pH and is more conductive to mineral absorption.

The daily amount of probiotics that is supported by research for maintaining intestinal health,Êranges from 3 to 10 billion. Higher dosages (10 to 50 billion) may be useful for individuals with food sensitivities, on prescription medications and/orÊsuffer from poor intestinal health. Furthermore, refrigeration of most probiotics is required to maintain the integrity and potency of the probiotic; except those that are labeled “shelf-stable.”