What is a bacteria that is beneficial to humans and what does it do?

How will you react if I tell you that your body consists of 1 to 2.6 kg of bacteria? Shocked? Well, I can imagine your surprised face. Most people believe that bacteria are dangerous and are responsible for diseases and infections but this isn’t true. In fact the truth is, most of the bacteria are helpful in the functioning of a living body and are also capable of performing many other useful functions. These beneficial bacteria are present in huge numbers inside as well as outside our body. Well let’s check out various types of beneficial bacteria which not only help in proper functioning of our body but also contribute in many other functions in and outside the body. Some of the examples of helpful bacteria are Bifidobacterium, Rhizobium and E.coli.

Beneficial Bacteria – to Humans

Human body has millions of bacteria which participate in different functions of the body. As you know the amount of bacteria present in the body varies from 1 to 2.6 kg, this volume contains a huge number of bacteria. These bacteria can be present in all parts of the body but mostly they are found in the intestine where they help in the process of digestion. They also play a very important role in preventing bacterial infections in genital parts, like yeast infections. Some beneficial bacteria to humans are helpful in maintaining the pH of the body. Some are even involved in protecting the skin from many infections.

They are also helpful in the production of vitamin K and have an important role to play in the functioning of immune system. One of the most common bacteria which are helpful for humans is Escherichia coli. This bacteria is associated with the process of digestion. It is present in the large intestine where the maximum digestion takes place. These bacteria release enzymes which help in the process of digestion and synthesis of various vitamins and nutrients. Beneficial bacteria are also very helpful for the pregnant women. They reduce the chances of postpartum complications and also protects the baby from fungal infections.

Probiotics are live bacteria that are good for us, that balance our good and bad intestinal bacteria, and that aid in digestion of food and help with digestive problems, such as diarrhea and bellyache. Bacteria that are examples of probiotics are Lactobacilli and Bifidobacterium.