Probiotics and pH Balance in the Gut

While probiotics are typically associated with a healthy digestive system, they may help to maintain a good pH balance in the gut too.

Probiotics are “good” bacteria that assist with processing food as well as protect the immune system near the intestines. People most commonly associate them with yogurt and other dairy products.

Women to Women said all microorganisms, including the bacteria found in the gut, are sensitive to pH levels.

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A 2005 study found that several strains of probiotics lowered the pH levels in a cultured environment, according to Essortment. More specifically, several types of the lactobacillus probiotics inhibited a type of salmonella bacteria — a type of the “bad” germs that can cause disease and even death. Lowering the pH level in the gut may help to prevent certain infections.

Several strains of lactobacillus are added to yogurts, cheeses, and other fermented dairy products, Essortment noted.

The study also reaffirmed that in the presence of glucose, lactobacilli are more likely to survive in highly acidic environments, such as the gut, according the National Center for Biotechnology Information. Additionally, the probiotics produce lactic acid, which metabolize glucose at low pH values.

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The lactic acid made by the lactobacillus genus along with its other products, such as hydrogen peroxide and bacteriocins, inhibit growth of infectious bacteria and help to maintain a healthy pH and balance of microorganism, Life Extension reported.

Beyond the gut, Life Extension said lactobacilli may help with protecting women against yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis.

By controlling the acidity in this way, good intestinal bacteria regulate bowel movements and work to prevent bloating, gas, and the overgrowth of yeast, according to Women to Women. Additionally, if pH changes due to insufficient amounts of good bacteria, the immune system can weaken, leaving the body more susceptible to infections.

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