Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that are normally found in a healthy gastrointestinal system. When someone is experiencing digestive upset - which could range from bloating and indigestion to conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel diseases - probiotics can often help to reduce or eliminate symptoms by restoring a healthy balance. Different strains of bacteria will serve multiple functions in the intestinal tract, which can include inhibiting pathogenic bacteria, improving digestion, reducing inflammation, and stimulating gastrointestinal immunity by increasing the secretion of IgA and mucin. A higher concentration of probiotics is especially beneficial to help restore balance in the intestinal tract after taking an antibiotic, with conditions such as IBS or during times of gastrointestinal distress.