What are probiotics?
Probiotics are living micro-organisms which, when administered in adequate amount confer a health benefit on the host. They are the friendly bacteria that can survive the harsh gastric juice and bile to arrive at the intestines alive where they help to maintain a desirable balance of the good bacteria. Most probiotics are lactic acid bacteria such as the species of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria. Yakult contains Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota, a strain that is exclusive only to our products.
How can Yakult help me?
Yakult contains more than 10 billion of probiotics, L. casei strain Shirota which are strong enough to survive the journey through the gastric juice and bile to reach the intestines alive. There, they top up the good bacteria already present in the intestines and help to normalise the balance of intestinal bacteria by keeping the harmful bacteria in check. A bottle of Yakult daily can help to maintain a healthy digestive system.
How many bottles of Yakult per day are recommended?
Consuming one bottle a day is enough to enjoy the benefits of Yakult because it contains more than 10 billion of the unique probiotics, L.casei strain Shirota. However, it is important to drink Yakult everyday in order to ensure a constant supply of good bacteria. Drinking more than one bottle a day is also fine, as it will cause no harm. But the rule of thumb is to consume all food and drinks in moderation.
Does Yakult have any side effects?
No. Yakult is a food, not a medicine and does not produce any side effects. It has a record of product safety for more than 70 years. In fact the strong probiotics, L. casei strain Shirota in Yakult help to increase the good bacteria and decrease the harmful bacteria in the intestines. This helps in the promotion of a healthy digestive system.
When is the best time to consume Yakult?
There is no specific time to drink Yakult. But it is more effective to drink Yakult during or after meals when the acidity in the stomach is lower. This can result in even more Yakult probiotics reaching the intestines alive where they can function even better.
Can a lactose intolerant person drink Yakult?
Yes. People with lactose intolerance are unable to properly digest a large quantity of lactose caused by lack of the enzyme lactase that breaks down (hydrolyzes) lactose in the intestine. Lactose is the natural sugar found in milk and milk products. During the production process of Yakult, the lactase of our good bacteria, L.casei strain Shirota changes the lactose into digestible sugars – galactose and glucose.
Will drinking Yakult cause phlegm or cough?
No. Drinking Yakult will not cause phlegm or cough However, if you have been advised by your doctor not to consume cold drinks, we suggest that you take out Yakult from the refrigerator and leave it to stand for 1 or 2 hours at room temperature before consuming it.
Is it alright to drink Yakult when one has diarrhoea?
One of the major causes of diarrhoea is disturbance to the intestinal bacterial flora. Under such condition, the ingestion of good bacteria such as Yakult’s L. casei strain Shirota can help to restore the balance between the good and bad bacteria. It is therefore fine to drink Yakult when one has diarrhoea.
What is the amount of sugar in a bottle of Yakult?
The sugar in Yakult is about the same amount of sugar found in an apple. Yakult contains about 70 Calories, which is merely 3% – 4% of the daily Calories of 1700 – 2100 that we need. The amount of sugar and Calories contained in a bottle of Yakult is therefore relatively small – a needless cause for concern. Drinking a bottle of Yakult daily actually helps to maintain a healthy digestive system.
Will the intake of sugar cause diabetes?
There is no medical evidence to show that sugar intake causes diabetes.
The general causes of diabetes are :
- Dysfunction of the pancreas
- Age, ethnic background and family history
- Gestational diabetes
- Lack of exercise
- Obesity
- Certain medications