HEALTHY WITH PROBIOTICS
The bestseller "Darm mit Charme" by medical student Giulia Enders has informed many interested readers about the intestine and its functions. As a result, the "intestinal organ" has attracted a lot of public attention. Many intestinal problems are linked to changes in the intestinal flora. So-called "probiotics" (or "probiotics") are being used more and more frequently to help the intestinal inhabitants. What can probiotics do for health and also for the brain, for example? Do they help against Alzheimer's, dementia or multiple sclerosis? Here are all the answers ...
Table of contents
With Probiotica food supplements in capsule form, the lactic acid bacteria in the capsule shell are protected against stomach and bile acids so that they reach the intestine undamaged. In addition, they do not need to be refrigerated and are therefore also suitable for on the go. They therefore offerProbiotica in capsulesoffer many advantages over probiotic drinks or yoghurts!
Advantages over probiotic drinks or yoghurts! Results of scientific studies on probiotic bacteria:
https://journals.lww.com/ajg/Abstract/publishahead/Bifidobacterium_longum_1714__Strain_Modulates.99692.aspx
Table of contents
- Intestinal flora and microbiome - what is it?
- What are probiotics and how do they help the gut?
- Probiotics and prebiotics - what's the difference?
- What are the symptoms when the intestinal flora is disturbed?
- What influence do probiotics have on health and mental balance? Can they be effective against Alzheimer's, dementia and multiple sclerosis?
- Gut enemy no. 1: What do antibiotics do to the gut?
- What strains of bacteria are there?
- How does the enzyme ficin help the gut? What does it have to do with probiotics?
- Where can I buy high-quality probiotic supplements? What are the advantages of probiotics capsules over other probiotic products?
1. intestinal flora and microbiome - what is it?
The gut is more than just our digestive tract. It is the body's largest immune organ and is colonized by billions of bacteria. Around 100 trillion bacteria nest on the inner intestinal mucosa and are referred to as "microbial flora". Our microbial flora (also known as the microbiome) consists of around 400 different species and subspecies. It is a complex ecosystem with important functions.
An intact microbial flora is essential for the normal functioning of the gut and good digestion. This means a colonization with predominantly neutral and "good" bacteria. These intestinal inhabitants include lactic acid bacteria. The microbial flora forms organic acids that lower the pH value in the intestine and maintain its protective function. This is all the more important because science assumes that a disturbed intestinal flora can be the trigger for problems and diseases of various kinds.
It is therefore essential to pay attention to the intestinal flora if you want to be healthy and fit!
An intact microbial flora is essential for the normal functioning of the gut and good digestion. This means a colonization with predominantly neutral and "good" bacteria. These intestinal inhabitants include lactic acid bacteria. The microbial flora forms organic acids that lower the pH value in the intestine and maintain its protective function. This is all the more important because science assumes that a disturbed intestinal flora can be the trigger for problems and diseases of various kinds.
It is therefore essential to pay attention to the intestinal flora if you want to be healthy and fit!
2 What are probiotics and how do they help the gut?
The term "probiotics" comes from the ancient Greek and means "for life". Probiotics based on lactic acid bacteria have a long tradition. Ilya Metschnikov (1845-1916), a Russian immunologist and Nobel Prize winner, explained at the beginning of the 20th century that lactic acid bacteria can suppress putrefactive processes in the intestine. For Metschnikow it was clear: intestinal problems are linked to changes in the composition of the intestinal flora.
His assumption is based on the fact that there are people who have been consuming large quantities of fermented foods such as sauerkraut and yoghurt for centuries. Such fermented foods contain bacteria that have a positive influence on our health. Countries such as Bulgaria, where at least half a liter of yogurt is consumed per person per day, are known for the high proportion of people who live to an above-average age.
So is old age related to gut health? Is "gut protection" therefore active "anti-ageing"? Metchnikow's theory was rediscovered in 1989 and has received a lot of medical attention since then. Scientific study on the influence of probiotic microorganisms in the gut: https: //www.researchgate.net/publication/256485901_Dietary_intervention_impact_on_gut_microbial_gene_richness
His assumption is based on the fact that there are people who have been consuming large quantities of fermented foods such as sauerkraut and yoghurt for centuries. Such fermented foods contain bacteria that have a positive influence on our health. Countries such as Bulgaria, where at least half a liter of yogurt is consumed per person per day, are known for the high proportion of people who live to an above-average age.
So is old age related to gut health? Is "gut protection" therefore active "anti-ageing"? Metchnikow's theory was rediscovered in 1989 and has received a lot of medical attention since then. Scientific study on the influence of probiotic microorganisms in the gut: https: //www.researchgate.net/publication/256485901_Dietary_intervention_impact_on_gut_microbial_gene_richness
3. probiotics and prebiotics - what's the difference?
The terms "probiotics" and "prebiotics" are often confused. After all, they only differ by a single letter. In terms of content, however, the difference is greater.
Probiotics is the term for beneficial bacteria in the diet or in food supplements, the consumption of which strengthens or improves the intestinal flora and has a beneficial effect on the microbial balance in the intestine. The WHO (World Health Organization) defines probiotics as: "living microorganisms which, when administered in sufficient quantity, confer a health benefit on the host organism." They also prevent the proliferation of pathogenic germs in the intestine by producing lactic acid. This creates an acidic environment in the intestine, which the pathogens do not like. In order for the probiotics to fulfill these tasks, they need "food". This is where the so-called "prebiotics" come into play.
Prebiotics are dietary fibres that are indigestible for the body and serve as food for probiotics. If the "good" bacteria in the intestine do not get enough prebiotics, the intestinal flora can become unbalanced. The consequences can then be digestive problems and intestinal diseases. It is therefore important to provide the "good" intestinal bacteria with sufficient prebiotics. So that they can build up the intestinal flora and thus support intestinal health.
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Probiotics is the term for beneficial bacteria in the diet or in food supplements, the consumption of which strengthens or improves the intestinal flora and has a beneficial effect on the microbial balance in the intestine. The WHO (World Health Organization) defines probiotics as: "living microorganisms which, when administered in sufficient quantity, confer a health benefit on the host organism." They also prevent the proliferation of pathogenic germs in the intestine by producing lactic acid. This creates an acidic environment in the intestine, which the pathogens do not like. In order for the probiotics to fulfill these tasks, they need "food". This is where the so-called "prebiotics" come into play.
Prebiotics are dietary fibres that are indigestible for the body and serve as food for probiotics. If the "good" bacteria in the intestine do not get enough prebiotics, the intestinal flora can become unbalanced. The consequences can then be digestive problems and intestinal diseases. It is therefore important to provide the "good" intestinal bacteria with sufficient prebiotics. So that they can build up the intestinal flora and thus support intestinal health.
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4. what are the symptoms when the intestinal flora is disturbed?
The symptoms that can result from a disturbed intestinal flora include
- Flatulence
- Nausea and vomiting
- abdominal pain
- diarrhea
-Inflammation of the bowel
-deficiency symptoms; especially of vitamins
- migraine
5. what influence do probiotics have on health and mental balance? Can they be effective against Alzheimer's, dementia and multiple sclerosis?
The influence of probiotics on the following diseases has been well researched:
-Certain types of inflammatory bowel disease
- Prevention of skin diseases such as allergies and neurodermatitis
- Mild infections, such as urinary tract infections
It is only in recent years that researchers have also been investigating a connection between the gut and the brain. There is research that suggests a connection between Alzheimer's, dementia or even multiple sclerosis. However, this connection has not yet been sufficiently scientifically proven to be able to make such statements.
It is not surprising that bacteria that colonize our intestines have an influence on our brain. After all, there is a close network of nerves between the brain and the digestive tract. Who hasn't experienced a "sinking feeling" in the stomach when stressed or in love?
-Certain types of inflammatory bowel disease
- Prevention of skin diseases such as allergies and neurodermatitis
- Mild infections, such as urinary tract infections
It is only in recent years that researchers have also been investigating a connection between the gut and the brain. There is research that suggests a connection between Alzheimer's, dementia or even multiple sclerosis. However, this connection has not yet been sufficiently scientifically proven to be able to make such statements.
It is not surprising that bacteria that colonize our intestines have an influence on our brain. After all, there is a close network of nerves between the brain and the digestive tract. Who hasn't experienced a "sinking feeling" in the stomach when stressed or in love?
6. gut enemy no. 1: What do antibiotics do to the gut?
There are many reasons why the intestinal flora gets out of balance. These include environmental toxins, poor nutrition, smoking and stress. Especially after taking antibiotics, the number of "good" intestinal bacteria can drop significantly, as these are also destroyed by antibiotics.
Probiotics ("for life") owe their name to antibiotics ("against life"). This already explains how these drugs work. Namely against life - not against the patient's life, however, but against that of bacteria. Their task is to inhibit the growth of bacteria or to kill them.
Consequently, antibiotic therapy, even if it can be life-saving, inevitably destroys many beneficial bacteria. Unfortunately, antibiotics cannot distinguish between "good" and "bad" bacteria. Although the intestinal flora recovers, some beneficial bacteria may disappear completely. Probiotic bacterial strains are also used to accompany intestinal cleansing.
Probiotics ("for life") owe their name to antibiotics ("against life"). This already explains how these drugs work. Namely against life - not against the patient's life, however, but against that of bacteria. Their task is to inhibit the growth of bacteria or to kill them.
Consequently, antibiotic therapy, even if it can be life-saving, inevitably destroys many beneficial bacteria. Unfortunately, antibiotics cannot distinguish between "good" and "bad" bacteria. Although the intestinal flora recovers, some beneficial bacteria may disappear completely. Probiotic bacterial strains are also used to accompany intestinal cleansing.
7 Which bacterial strains are available?
There is a whole range of different probiotic products on the market - usually as a drink or yoghurt - which vary greatly in quality, composition and price.
Most probiotics that you can buy in the supermarket as a drink or yoghurt only contain ONE SINGLE bacterial strain.
Bifidobacteria are the largest group of bacteria. They are well absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract both from food (yoghurt) and from probiotic supplements (in powder or capsule form). Individual types of bifidobacteria are available as well as combinations with other groups of healthy bacteria (e.g. lactobacilli). However, an important criterion for quality is the quantity of different microorganisms contained!
Here, for example, are 13 of the best-known cultures:
Most probiotics that you can buy in the supermarket as a drink or yoghurt only contain ONE SINGLE bacterial strain.
Bifidobacteria are the largest group of bacteria. They are well absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract both from food (yoghurt) and from probiotic supplements (in powder or capsule form). Individual types of bifidobacteria are available as well as combinations with other groups of healthy bacteria (e.g. lactobacilli). However, an important criterion for quality is the quantity of different microorganisms contained!
Here, for example, are 13 of the best-known cultures:
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Lactobacillus bulgaricus
- Lactobacillus casei
- Lactobacillus salivarius
- Lactobacillus paracasei
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus
- Lactobacillus plantarum
- Bifidobacterium infantis
- Bifidobacterium animalis lactis
- Bifidobacterium longum
- Bifidobacterium breve
- Bifidobacterium bifidum
- Streptococcus thermophilus
With Probiotica food supplements in capsule form, the lactic acid bacteria in the capsule shell are protected against stomach and bile acids so that they reach the intestine undamaged. In addition, they do not need to be refrigerated and are therefore also suitable for on the go. They therefore offerProbiotica in capsulesoffer many advantages over probiotic drinks or yoghurts!
Advantages over probiotic drinks or yoghurts! Results of scientific studies on probiotic bacteria:
https://journals.lww.com/ajg/Abstract/publishahead/Bifidobacterium_longum_1714__Strain_Modulates.99692.aspx
8. how does the enzyme ficin help the gut? What does it have to do with probiotics?
The "real fig" (Ficus carica) is rich in various enzymes, mainly "ficin", which comes from its milky sap. However, it is not only rich in enzymes, but also in minerals and fiber. Ficus carica is known to support intestinal health. High-quality probiotic food supplements can be enhanced by the enzyme ficin.
The following statements about the effect of the enzyme ficin are permitted according to the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority):
The following statements about the effect of the enzyme ficin are permitted according to the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority):
- Ficus carica contributes to intestinal health
- Ficus carica contributes to the microbial balance of the intestinal flora
- Ficus carica contributes to normal fat metabolism (cholesterol, triglycerides)
- Ficus carica contributes to the microbial balance of the intestinal flora
- Ficus carica contributes to normal fat metabolism (cholesterol, triglycerides)
9 Where can I buy high-quality probiotic supplements? What are the advantages of probiotic capsules over other probiotic products?
First of all, here are the advantages of probiotics in capsules over other probiotic products:
- Capsules are slowly dissolved on their way into the gut. This means that more good bacteria get there, as they have not already been destroyed in the stomach
- Capsules are easy to take regularly every day
- Capsules are tasteless
- You can easily take them with you on the go
- They have a long shelf life (several years)
- They do not need to be refrigerated compared to yoghurts or drinks with probiotics, where there is a risk that bacteria will die if refrigeration is interrupted
- They have virtually no calories, unlike most probiotic yogurts or drinks, which are often high in carbohydrates/sugar or fat
- They contain no artificial flavors or colors
Regardless of which product you choose, you should switch between different products as little as possible. Each product contains different strains of bacteria. In order to achieve optimum results, the same bacteria should always be supplied to the intestine. In addition, the use of probiotic products is only recommended for healthy people. If your immune system is impaired, please consult your doctor before taking probiotics.
The purchase of pure, natural and high-quality probiotics and vitamins is a matter of trust! Therefore, please always buy quality tested in Germany or in the EU! Pay attention to the number of bacterial strains (!!!) - and make sure that the products are subject to strict quality controls in accordance with EU laws.
Tip: Take a look at the store reviews on the Internet. On the one hand, the opinions of customers provide important information, on the other hand there are institutions that rate the provider, e.g. "Trusted Shops" or "Top Shops".
- Capsules are easy to take regularly every day
- Capsules are tasteless
- You can easily take them with you on the go
- They have a long shelf life (several years)
- They do not need to be refrigerated compared to yoghurts or drinks with probiotics, where there is a risk that bacteria will die if refrigeration is interrupted
- They have virtually no calories, unlike most probiotic yogurts or drinks, which are often high in carbohydrates/sugar or fat
- They contain no artificial flavors or colors
Regardless of which product you choose, you should switch between different products as little as possible. Each product contains different strains of bacteria. In order to achieve optimum results, the same bacteria should always be supplied to the intestine. In addition, the use of probiotic products is only recommended for healthy people. If your immune system is impaired, please consult your doctor before taking probiotics.
The purchase of pure, natural and high-quality probiotics and vitamins is a matter of trust! Therefore, please always buy quality tested in Germany or in the EU! Pay attention to the number of bacterial strains (!!!) - and make sure that the products are subject to strict quality controls in accordance with EU laws.
Tip: Take a look at the store reviews on the Internet. On the one hand, the opinions of customers provide important information, on the other hand there are institutions that rate the provider, e.g. "Trusted Shops" or "Top Shops".
About the author: Jörn Kocken is considered one of the leading experts in the field of natural and herbal food supplements in Europe. He is also the founder of Feelgood-Shop.com, one of the largest online retailers of natural food supplements in Germany, Austria and Switzerland since 2003.