What are Probiotics?
The term probiotics stands for “for” and “life.” It was coined by Lilly and Stillwell in 1965 to refer to bacteria or yeast that are beneficial to human health. The practice of consuming probiotics is as old as humanity, although it was only in the 20th century that it gained recognition for its potential health benefits. The World Health Organisation defines probiotics as “live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host." Probiotics are passing visitors unlike the long-term microbes that reside in your gut, But they keep our gut healthy by, for example, stop harmful bacteria from attaching to the gut lining and help act as a barrier against these pathogens. The two most commonly studied probiotics genus (groups) found in a healthy gut are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.
How Probiotics Benefit You
The two most commonly studied probiotics genus found in a healthy gut are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. Each genus has many different strains, and each strain confers specific benefits. Probiotics must survive the acid environment of the stomach before being released in the gut. Some have the ability to populate or modify the surrounding environment so that bad bacteria are unable to colonize or survive in the intestines -- hence protecting us from pathogens (the bad guys that make us sick). Some probiotic strains release chemicals which break down toxins produced by unhealthy bacteria that cause diarrhea. Some strains increase the number of infection-fighting cells in the gastrointestinal tract, while others have the ability to stop bad bacteria or their byproducts from leaving the gastrointestinal tract and entering the rest of the body. While others, maintain healthy skin and a heal;thy nervous system.
Some Benefits of Taking Probiotics
Potential benefits of probiotics have been seen in supporting the treatment or prevention of: • Diarrhea • Irritable bowel syndrome • Ulcerative colitis • Crohn's disease • H. pyloric (the cause of ulcers) • Vaginal infections • Urinary tract infections • Infection of the digestive tract caused by Clostridium difficle • Eczema in children • Help with the digestion of lactose • Decrease common infections, including respiratory tract, gut and vaginal tract Sources: Health Benefits of Taking probiotics. Harvard Health Publishing, Harvard Medical School. Accessed on 28 August 2018. International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics
Why a Healthy Gut Equates to a Healthier You.
Our gut (or digestive tract) runs from the mouth and ends in the anus. Close to 90 to 95 percent of our microbes are found in our gut, in particular the colon. Maintaining the gut microbiota flora gets the most attention because our immune cells live in our gut. It is believed that maintaining a good microbial of our gut, keeps our immune system healthy, too. The gut barrier consists of three layers. The gooey outer shield of mucus plays the role of a physical barrier that prevents bad bacteria from entering the intestinal walls. You fall sick when pathogens (the bad bacteria or viruses that make you sick) penetrate into the intestinal walls, and into our blood stream. This layer also serves as a rich source of carbohydrates for our microbes to eat. This sustains the community of beneficial microbes. And they in turn help defend the gut from invasion by pathogens. This community of friendly bacteria can also coax our intestinal walls to release defensis – one of our body’s chemical agents against invading bacteria, viruses and fungi. This mutually beneficial relationship keeps us from harm’s way.
What Happens When Your Gut Microbes are Disturbed
When your gut microbiota is disturbed, pathogens (the harmful bacteria or viruses that make us sick or ill) may increase and thereby may cause negative effect to our health. Scientists believe these may be some of the gut microbes deficiency associated diseases/illnesses: - Antibiotic-associated diarrhea - C. difficile infection - Diabetes - Metabolic syndrome and obesity - Allergies - Inflammatory bowel disease - Irritable bowel syndrome - Autoimmune diseases - Depression and anxiety (mental health) - Colds and flu
Your Microbiome Changes Throughout Your Life
Before birth, we are all more or less sterile. Soon after birth, we pick up the microbes from our mother through the birth canal during birth, and subsequently the world we come into contact with as we grow up. By the time of adulthood, we are covered by thousands of different species of microbes that colonize our body. Life changing events such as puberty, pregnancy and menopause will also bring changes to our microbiome. During pregnancy the vaginal microbiome changes to allow certain species to grow that will colonize and benefit the baby as it is born. Our microbes also changes throughout life with age, the types and kinds of food we eat, drugs and environmental influences, geographical location we live, occupation, and hygiene.
Nine Factors to Consider When Buying Probiotic Supplements
Packaging Matters
Because probiotics are fragile and need to be live to be beneficial, product packaging plays an important role in protecting its efficacy and potency. Our probiotic products are packed in patented vials (bottles) specially made for this purpose. This is especially so in hot and humid climate.
Probiotic R&D Company
Who’s the manufacturer? Buy a probiotic product that is made by a cGMP audited and certified manufacturer that is dedicated to probiotic research and development.
Look for Quality
Don’t make a decision based on price alone. Always look for a quality product that has these attributes.
"It is believed that maintaining the microbial of our gut, keeps our immune system healthy."
Justin Sonnenburg, Ph.D Dept. of Microbiology and Immunology Stanford University School of Medicine
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Our products are made in certified cGMP (current Good Manufacturing Practices) compliant facilities. Dietary supplements are never intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease/illnesses. Although scientific research and references are used to demonstrate the functional health claims of Gaia dietary supplements, do consult your doctor to determine if these health products are suitable for you. This will also ensure a holistic management of your health, especially if you are on any long-term medication or have an existing medical condition. The information found on this website/promotional materials/spoken or written should never be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor. Do not increase the dosage beyond what is stated in the product label unless you have been advised by your doctor. Over dose can pose danger to your health. Your health is foremost to us. We wish you the best of health!