Your gut ecosystem - essential for overall balance
Your gastrointestinal tract is home to trillions of microbes, collectively known as the gut microbiota. These microbes are essential partners in digestion, nutrient breakdown, vitamin production, and the interaction with your immune system and mental well-being.
Understanding dysbiosis – when the gut ecosystem is out of balance
Modern lifestyles, including stress, poor diets, and overuse of antibiotics, can disrupt the delicate balance of the gut microbiota, a condition known as dysbiosis. This imbalance may be associated with various health challenges, including digestive discomfort, food sensitivities, and weakened immune function.
Recognizing common signs of dysbiosis—such as bloating, irregular bowel movements, or food sensitivities—can help you take steps to support a balanced gut environment.
What are probiotics—and are all strains the same?
Probiotics are live microorganisms commonly used in supplements and fermented foods. These microorganisms are part of the gut’s natural microbial community, which contributes to the overall balance and function of the digestive system.
However, not all probiotic strains are the same. Even strains within the same species can have different characteristics. Therefore, choosing carefully selected combinations of strains is important when aiming to support a diverse gut microbiota.
Scientific research has shown that certain probiotic strains may:
- Contribute to maintaining the composition of the gut microbiota
- Play a role in microbial interactions within the gut environment
- Support the production of compounds like short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that are part of the gut ecosystem
- Engage with the gut-associated immune system as part of the natural microbiota-immune interaction
The gut and immune system – a protective partnership
Approximately 80% of the body’s immune cells are located in the gastrointestinal tract, where they continuously interact with the gut microbiota. This interaction is a key part of the body’s natural ecosystem and plays an important role in immune-related functions.
Factors such as prolonged stress, an unbalanced diet, or lifestyle changes may influence the relationship between the gut’s microbial environment and immune-related processes.
Ongoing research is exploring how the gut environment and the immune system may be connected in areas such as:
- Susceptibility to infections
- Food sensitivities
- Digestive disturbances
- Histamine intolerance
The gut-brain axis – a complex communication system
The gut-brain axis is a complex system that connects the gut and the brain through a network of neural pathways, signaling molecules, and microbial interactions. One of the most important connections occurs via the vagus nerve, which plays a key role in communicating between brain and gut functions.
The gut-brain axis is involved in several of the body’s regulatory systems, including neural signaling, metabolic activity, and immune-related interactions.
Scientific interest in the gut-brain axis is growing, and emerging research explores its relevance to areas such as energy, focus, and cognitive well-being. While the field is evolving rapidly, many aspects remain under investigation.
What is the difference between PrebioticsProbiotics and Postbiotics?
Let us explain.
Prebiotics act as food for beneficial
bacteria. Probiotics add live bacteria. Postbiotics are the helpful nutrients
these bacteria produce. Together, they work in harmony to support a balanced
and healthy gut environment.
-
Prebiotics
Prebiotics are fibers that certain gut bacteria can use as a food source. They are part of a varied diet that helps maintain the diversity of the gut microbiota.
-
Probiotics
Probiotics are defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. This is a general scientific definition and does not refer to specific products or imply any approved health claims.
-
Postbiotics
Postbiotics are bioactive compounds produced when probiotics ferment prebiotic fibers. These beneficial substances include short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), enzymes, peptides, and vitamins.