There may be as many as 1500 different species of bacteria in the human digestive tract. Their number changes under the influence of many factors and is individual for each person. The intestinal flora is responsible for many important functions…
There may be as many as 1500 different species of bacteria in the human digestive tract. Their number changes under the influence of many factors and is individual for each person. The intestinal flora is responsible for many important functions – it improves digestion by decomposing food remains, ensures continuity of intestinal epithelium, increases nutrient assimilation, inhibits the development of pathogenic microorganisms, produces some vitamins (K and B), and stimulates the immune system. Therefore, it has a direct impact on the proper functioning of the whole organism, and thus on our well-being. Modern lifestyle does not favour the health of good bacteria in the intestines. Research shows that the majority of society has a disturbed bacterial flora in the intestines and its insufficient level.
What are the most common symptoms that indicate their deficiency?
These include: hormonal problems, diarrhoea or constipation, flatulence, food intolerances (e.g. to gluten, eggs, milk), allergies, leaking intestinal syndrome, candidosis/retroduction of Candida, eczema and skin mycoses, acne, reduced immunity, chronic fatigue, neurosis, depression and asthma.
Deficiencies of bacterial flora have a close connection with more serious ailments such as: autoimmune diseases, multiple sclerosis, intestinal diseases (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, SIBO), diabetes mellitus, thyroid diseases, obesity/overweight, celiac disease.
How can we rebuild bacterial flora in the intestines?
One way is to introduce into the diet like products rich in fibre, drink as much water as possible and eat prebiotics – garlic, onions, leek and asparagus are particularly helpful in this regard. Magnesium supplementation can also be helpful. You should take care of the quality of your sleep – it should be calm and long-lasting. Physical activity in the open air and the use of relaxation methods (yoga and meditation) should also be on the list of our daily behaviour. In order to settle the intestines, we should also consume good bacteria in the form of probiotics. Studies have shown that probiotics work best when taken with or 30 minutes after a meal containing healthy fats.
What are probiotics?
These living microorganisms, called “good bacteria”, ingested in appropriate amounts have a beneficial effect on our body. It consists in restoring the correct intestinal microflora. It strengthens the body’s immunity, prevents Helicobacter pylori infections, inflammatory bowel diseases, irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea and atopic dermatitis.
What should you pay attention to when buying probiotics?
First of all, you should choose those action of which has been scientifically proven. Probiotic bacteria should be described on the packaging as follows: genus / species / strain. Since specific strains of bacteria have a specific effect, it is important to select a probiotic when purchasing a probiotic. For example, strains are helpful in the treatment of diarrhea, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and ulcerative colitis: L. rhamnosus GG, L. plantarum, L. brevis, L. lactis, L. reuterii. After antibiotic therapy (to prevent diarrhea): S. boulardii, L. plantarum, L. lactis. For allergies, skin problems, atopic dermatitis: L. rhamnosus GG, L. acidophillus. In case of problems with caries: L. rhamnosus GG, L. reuteria. In case of intimate infections (e.g. mycosis, rash, burning, pruritus): L. rhamnosus GG, L. gasseri, L. fermentum. When purchasing probiotic preparations, it is also necessary to check whether they are stored by vendors in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations, because if not, they may lose their properties. Some of them can withstand room temperature, while others must be stored in the fridge. The amount of bacteria contained in a given preparation is also important. The minimum amount of bacteria in a dose is 109 cfu/g or in the case of non-pathogenic probiotic yeast 250 to 500 mg. If there are not enough of them, taking the probiotic will not bring the expected results.
