Six curiosities about Probiotics

1) Our microbiota weighs about 1,5 kg, more than brain and heart.

This is an extimation considering that more than 100 trillions of bacteria inhabiting our body. We have more bacteria than cells with a 10:1 ratio, so we can consider ourselves not a pluricellular organism but a real ecosystem.

2) Probiotics are responsible for 70% of our immune response.

Probiotics stimulate everything from T-cells to macrophages, and can also activate cytokines and phagocytic cells to coordinate the immune response.

3) Probiotic foods have been consumed for centuries.

Numerous traditional foods containing probiotic bacteria are tasty and healthful: yogurt, miso, kimchi, tempeh, sauerkraut, kefir, and kombucha all have very rich in bacteria with recognized medicinal benefits.

4) Adult gastrointestinal health is a serious issue.

40% of people have at least one digestive disorder symptom, such as IBS, celiac disease, reflux, inflammatory bowel disease (IBS) and constipation. However, 42% of these disorders can be prevented by probiotic intake.

5) Celiac disease & Gluten Sensitivity.

CD affects approximalety 1% of the world population but gluten intolerance could potentially affect up to 13% of the population. Currently, the main strains used are B. infantis, L. salivarius, L.plantarum, B. longum, L. delbrueckii ssp. lactis, and blends of VSL3 and PENTABIOCEL.

6) Gut-brain connection is a two-way street.

Gut bacteria produce neurochemicals used by the brain to regulate learning, memory and mood. On the other hand, psychological stress suppresses beneficial bacteria: during exam week, stool samples taken from university students contained fewer lactobacilli than the samples taken earlier in the semester.