Probiotics: health from the intestine

Probiotics: health from the intestine
probiotics: health from the intestine
Probiotics have become a widespread health trend in recent years. More and more people are relying on these microorganisms to improve their digestion and strengthen their immune system. But what exactly are probiotics and how do they affect our health? In this article we will take a closer look at this topic and take a look at the scientific knowledge of probiotics.
What are probiotics?
Lobiotics are living microorganisms that should have a positive effect on the health of the host organism. They occur primarily in fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut and other dairy products. The best known and mostly researched probiotics are among the lactobacilli and bifidobacteria.
In contrast to pathogenic (disease -causing) bacteria,probiotics are harmless and can be taken without side effects. They are intended to support the balance of the intestinal flora by increasing the number of healthy bacteria and inhibiting the growth of potentially harmful bacteria.
The effects of probiotics range from strengthening the immune system to improving digestion to the prevention and treatment of certain diseases. But how exactly do probiotics work in the body?
The mode of action of probiotics
Probiotics have their positive effects in the intestine by using different mechanisms:
1. strengthening the immune system : The intestine is the seat of the majority of our immune system. Probiotics can stimulate the production of antibodies and certain immune -regulatory substances that can strengthen the immune system and protect against infections.
2. displacement of pathogenic : Probiotics compete with pathogenic bacteria for resources and occupy the binding sites on the intestinal mucosa. This inhibited the growth of harmful bacteria and reduces the risk of infections.
3. promotion of digestion : A healthy intestine contains a variety of bacteria that play an important role in digestion. Probiotics can help improve the digestive process, for example by promoting the production of enzymes and supporting the absorption of nutrients.
4. regulation of the intestinal barrier : The intestinal barrier protects the body from penetrating harmful substances. Probiotics can support the integrity of the intestinal barrier by promoting the production of mucus and strengthening the cells of the intestinal wall.
Health advantages of probiotics
Taking probiotics can have a positive effect on health. Although research on this topic is still relatively young, there are some promising results that indicate the advantages of probiotics:
1. Improvement of digestion
Probiotics can help alleviate digestive problems such as flatulence, diarrhea and constipation. A study has shown that supplementation with certain probiotics can regulate the intestinal movements and reduce the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Another study suggests that probiotics can also be effective in the treatment of antibiotic-associated diarrhea because they restore the normal balance of intestinal flora.
2. Strengthening the immune system
Probiotics can help strengthen the immune system and combat infections. A meta -analysis of 12 studies showed that taking probiotics can significantly reduce the duration and severity of colds. Another study showed that probiotics can reduce the risk of respiratory infections in children. In addition, some studies indicate that probiotics could protect against allergic diseases such as hay fever and atopic dermatitis.
3. Support for weight reduction
Some studies suggest that probiotics can help with weight loss. Probiotics could influence the metabolism and regulate the absorption of nutrients from food. A study showed that taking a certain probiotic led to a significant reduction in body fat and waist circumference.
4. Improvement of skin health
Taking probiotics can also have a positive impact on skin health. A study found that taking a certain probiotic over a period of 12 weeks led to a significant improvement in skin moisture and elasticity. Probiotics could also be effective in the treatment of skin diseases such as acne, rosacea and eczema.
FAZIT
Probiotics are living microorganisms that can have a positive effect on health. They support digestion, strengthen the immune system, can help with weight reduction and improve skin health. However, further studies are necessary to better understand the exact mechanisms and effects of probiotics.
If you are interested in taking probiotics, please consult your doctor or nutritionist to determine the correct dosage and the appropriate trunk for your individual needs. Also note that not all probiotics are the same and it is important to choose high -quality products that contain a sufficient amount of living bacteria.
sources:
- Rijkers GT, et al. Guidance for substantiating the evidence for benefit effects of probiotics: Current Status and Recommendations for Future Research. Jnutr. 2010; 140 (3): 671S - 6S.
- Ford AC, et al. Efficacy of Prebiotics, Probiotics, and Synbiotics in Irritable Bood Syndrome and Chronic Idiopathic Constipation: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. At the J Gastroenterol. 2014; 109 (10): 1547–61.
- Hao Q, et al. Probiotics for Preventing Acute Upper Respiratory Tract Infections. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015; Issue 2.
- Sanchez M, et al. Effect of Lactobacillus Rhamnosus Cgmcc1.3724 Supplementation on Weight Loss and maintenance in Obese Men and Women. Br j nutr. 2014; 111 (8): 1507–19.
- Pagnoni C, et al. Effect of a Prebiotic and probiotic combination on Skin Conditions in Children. Benef microbes. 2019; 10 (4): 413-422.