What Are Probiotics And Why Are They Important?

Have you heard about the bacteria that's actually good for you? Whether or not you have consciously consumed probiotics, found in some foods and supplements, they are also naturally found in your body. To make it simple, you have "good" and "bad" bacteria in your body. Probiotics can be taken to balance the good and bad bacteria in the body and help replenish the "good" bacteria in the body after taking antibiotics.

Click here for the 9 Things You Need to Know about Kombucha, Kimchi, and Other Probiotic Foods slideshow.

The two most common groups of probiotics are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. Lactobacillus is perhaps the most common probiotic, which is found in fermented foods, such as yogurt, sauerkraut, and miso soup. Bifidobacterium can be found in some dairy products and is used to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), according to WebMD. It's important to consume probiotics to regulate your gut. A regular and healthy gut will lower your risk of developing common health conditions such as IBS, antibiotic-related diarrhea, skin conditions, urinary health, and oral health.

The accompanying slideshow is provided by fellow Daily Meal editorial staff member Karen Lo.