What Are Examples of Good and Bad Bacteria ?

Examples of good bacteria include L. acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Streptococcus thermophilus and Bacillus coagulans, and some examples of bad bacteria include Clostridium perfringens, salmonella, staphyloccus aureus and listeria monocytogenes. Some types of bacteria can be both good and bad.

L. acidophilus is the most commonly used good bacteria. It exists in the intestines and assists with the digestion process by producing hydrogen peroxide and lactic acid, preventing bad bacteria from growing. L. acidophilus is found in probiotic yogurt.

Bifidobacterium bifidum is a good bacteria that can help to heal a stomach ulcer caused by a bad type of bacteria called Helicobacter pylori. It can also relieve irritable bowel syndrome, yeast infections and atopic eczema. Streptococcus thermophilus is a good bacteria that can help to relieve symptoms associated with lactose intolerance, such as nausea, cramping and diarrhea. Bacillus coagulans is a good bacteria that can help with gastrointestinal problems and prevent respiratory infections.

Bad bacteria such as salmonella, Clostridium perfringens, listeria monocytogenes and staphyloccus aureusis are the main causes of death, hospitalization and sickness in the United STates. Escherichia coli is a type of bacteria that can be good or bad. It resides in the intestines, but some strands can cause serious illnesses, urinary tract infections and diarrhea.