Probiotics Take Care For A Healthy Digestive Tract

Probiotics develop an eco-friendly gut for nutrients

Probiotics are live microorganisms, typically bacteria or yeast, that confer health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. An astonishing 38 trillion microorganisms inhabit the human body, playing a vital role in bolstering immunity, neutralizing toxic substances, and generating vital vitamins and amino acids for cellular metabolism. Among the myriad genera of microorganisms, including Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Escherichia coli, Clostridium, Streptococcus, Peptococcus, Ruminococcus, Fusobacterium, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, Bacteroides, and Eubacterium, are essential in maintaining human metabolic balance.

However, these benefits are primarily related to gut health, but they can also influence other aspects of overall well-being. Over the last two decades, probiotic bacteria have become a major focus in nutrition and health research, with a growing body of evidence demonstrating their substantial impact on human health. A numbers of research publication studies regularly show that probiotics improve gut health, emphasising their function in promoting the gut environment and overall health. As scientific validation grows, the industry has responded with a proliferation of commercial probiotic products, indicating rising public demand for remedies that boost digestive health and immune system function. This dynamic junction of research and public interest demonstrates probiotics’ continual growth from a scientific notion to a popular health treatment. At present, the health care industry is expected to sell probiotic products with a worth of 35-65 billion US Dollar.

Sources of probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial microbes residing in a diverse array of fermented delicacies and dietary supplements. Yoghurt, especially varieties boasting live cultures like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, along with kefir, are widely cherished sources. Fermented delights including sauerkraut, kimchi, and pickles, along with miso, a quintessential Japanese paste crafted from fermented soybeans, are brimming with probiotics. Tempeh, another creation from soybeans, and Natto, fermented soybeans, stand out as superb non-dairy alternatives. Additionally, Indian probiotic treasures feature luscious yogurt (Dahi), savory fermented Rice water, rice-lentil dishes such as Idli and Dosa, the Zesty kanji (a fermented carrot potion), artisanal Pickles, cooling Buttermilk (Chaas), and Gundruk (a vibrant mix of fermented leafy greens), complemented by piquant fermented Bamboo shoots, all collaboratively fostering a flourishing gut ecosystem of friendly bacteria. Kombucha, a fizzy fermented beverage, and sourdough bread offer further options. Certain Cheeses, like Gouda and Cheddar, might harbour probiotics, liable upon their production methods.

Type of probiotics

There are several strains of probiotics, each with its own set of benefits. Each type of probiotic provides distinct health benefits, making it critical to select the appropriate strain depending on individual health requirements.

There are several strains of probiotics, each with its own set of benefits. Each type of probiotic provides distinct health benefits, making it critical to select the appropriate strain depending on individual health requirements.

• Lactobacillus: One of the most prevalent probiotics is Lactobacillus, which may be found in fermented foods. It assists in the digestion of lactose (milk sugar), reduces diarrhoea, and improves gut health.

• Bifidobacterium: Bifidobacterium, which is commonly present in dairy products, helps to boost the immune system, inhibit the formation of bad bacteria in the intestines, and aids in the breakdown of dietary fibre.

• Saccharomyces boulardii: Saccharomyces boulardii, a yeast probiotic, is useful for preventing and treating diarrhoea, especially antibiotic-associated and traveller’s adiarrhoea. It also promotes intestinal health.

• Streptococcus thermophilus: It is a probiotic used in the production of yoghurt and cheese. It aids in the digestion of lactose, making dairy products more tolerable for those who are lactose intolerant.

• Enterococcus faecium: This probiotic, found in the gastrointestinal tracts of humans and animals, helps balance gut bacteria and promotes overall digestive health.

• Escherichia coli, Nissle 1917: This probiotic, a non-pathogenic strain of E. coli, is used to treat gastrointestinal diseases such as IBS and ulcerative colitis.

Applications of Probiotics

Mechanism of Probiotics in the Gut:

• Gut Microbiota Modulation: Probiotics contribute to a healthy gut bacteria balance by increasing the population of helpful germs while limiting the growth of dangerous ones. This balance is critical to gut ecosystem, immunological function, and overall gut and health well-being.

• Enhancement of the Gut Barrier: Probiotics elevate the intestinal epithelial defence’s by amplifying mucus secretion and fortifying the cohesion of tight junctions among cells. This serves to block harmful substances from infiltrating the stomach lining and entering the bloodstream, exemplified by Lactobacillus plantarum BMCM12 which secretes proteins that obstruct pathogen adherence and safeguard gut health.

• Immune System Interaction: Probiotics interact with the gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) and can influence immunological responses. They aid in regulating cytokine signalling molecules that control immune responses, improving the body’s ability to combat infections and reduce inflammation. Probiotics boost immune power by shaping T cells, balancing cytokines, and enhancing IgA⁺ cells.

Production of Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs):

Certain probiotics convert dietary fibres into short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as butyrate, acetate, and propionate. SCFAs supply energy to the cells that line the colon and contain anti-inflammatory properties, which contribute to gut health.

• Competitive Exclusion of Pathogens: Probiotics compete with pathogenic bacteria for nutrients and adhesion sites on the gut wall such as Lactobacillus delbrueckii clings well in the gut, competing for space against harmful bacteria on cell receptors. By occupying these areas and exploiting available resources, they prevent bacteria from colonising the gut and causing infection.

• Enzymatic Activity: Some probiotics release enzymes that aid in the digestion of complex carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids, hence increasing nutritional absorption and alleviating digestive discomfort. As an example, Lactobacilli and bifidobacteria have several enzymatic activities, with β-galactosidase being the most common.

How can cultivator Phyto Lab help you?

Cultivator Phyto Lab is a leading testing facility, equipped with advanced technology, that offers comprehensive microbiological testing for your brand’s products. In the food industry, it’s crucial to maintain a consistent policy for monitoring the entire manufacturing process, which includes regular environmental swab tests to detect various microorganisms. Cultivator Phyto Lab is your trusted partner in ensuring food safety and quality as per compliances.