The human immune system is currently one of the most complex and poorly understood. The ability to resist various infections is determined by many factors. One of the most important is the condition of the intestinal microflora. If lactobacilli and bifidobacteria predominate in it, which positively affect the body, then a person feels great, is less sick, has a normal metabolism.
Bifidobacteria - microorganisms on guard of our health
Bifidobacteria are slightly curved gram-positive bacilli, present in large quantities in the intestines of babies who are fed breast milk. In adults, the percentage that make up bifidobacteria in the intestinal microflora significantly decreases, their appearance changes. These microorganisms are replaced by lactobacilli.
The composition of bifidobacteria in the digestive tract of children who have switched to artificial feeding is changing . In this situation, the intestinal microflora of the child has the same microorganisms as in adults. This has a bad effect on the baby’s condition, so children who have switched to artificial feeding early should receive special preparations containing exactly the type of bifidobacteria that is typical for healthy babies who are breast milk.
Lactobacilli - digestion catalysts
Lactobacilli belong to the genus of gram-positive microorganisms. They are located in many sections of the human gastrointestinal tract, including the mucous membranes of the oral cavity, in the intestine. The main function of lactobacilli is the conversion of lactose, which enters the body with food, into a simpler element - lactic acid. This substance creates optimal conditions for the digestion process.
The effect of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli on the human body
Lactobacilli and bifidobacteria have a great effect on the human body. It consists in influencing not only the digestion process, but also the state of all systems as a whole. The important functions of these beneficial bacteria include the following.
1. Bifidobacteria activate the absorption of nutrients within the gastrointestinal tract. This is due to the provision of enzymatic digestion of human food. Under the influence of bifidobacteria, a change in the structure of proteins, carbohydrates, fats occurs, and fiber is dissolved. Due to the stimulation of intestinal motility, bifidobacteria ensure the normal process of its release. Under the influence of lactobacilli, lactose is converted to lactic acid, which is necessary to ensure the normal process of digestion of food.
2. Prevention and treatment of various intestinal infections - lactobacilli, bifidobacteria successfully cope with this. Enterococci, which are difficult to treat with antibiotics, can be forced out of the intestinal microflora by these human-friendly bacteria. Under the influence of beneficial microorganisms, the general resistance of the body to all kinds of viruses increases.
3. Lactobacilli and bifidobacteria are involved in the regulation of metabolism. The lactic acid synthesized by these microorganisms activates the absorption of vitamin D, iron, and calcium. Under the influence of bacteria, the metabolism of cholesterol and bilirubin is normalized.
4. Prevention of colon cancer is another major function of these microorganisms. Lactobacilli and bifidobacteria have anticarcinogenic and antimutagenic properties, preventing the development of malignant tumors.
The consequences of a lack of beneficial microorganisms in the intestines
Violation of the normal state of the intestinal microflora, the replacement of beneficial microorganisms with pathogens can lead to various problems in the functioning of not only the stomach and intestines, but also the body as a whole. Violations in the metabolism, the synthesis of the most important vitamins and minerals, pathogenic microbes that are constantly present in the intestines - all this helps to reduce human immunity.
The consequences of violation of the intestinal microflora in all people manifest themselves in different ways. For young children, this is a serious problem, since the colonization of the gastrointestinal tract even by conditionally pathogenic microorganisms can lead to serious intestinal infection. Therefore, preparations containing lactobacilli and bifidobacteria are often prescribed to infants as prophylaxis.
In adults, intestinal disorders occur, appetite decreases, weight loss begins. Due to a violation of the synthesis of vitamins, the condition of the skin and hair worsens, and signs of chronic fatigue appear. Further weakening of the immune system can also lead to various diseases.
Causes of pathogenic changes in intestinal microflora
The imbalance that occurred in the gastrointestinal tract can be caused by the following reasons:
1. Taking antibiotics.
2. Treatment through radiation and chemotherapy.
3. Infectious diseases.
4. Heavy physical exertion and severe stress.
5. Improper nutrition.
6. The early transition of infants to artificial feeding.
Especially severe violations occur as a result of a combination of several factors.
Probiotics and Prebiotics
Prebiotics and probiotics are often used to restore optimal intestinal microflora. The difference between these drugs is significant.
Prebiotics are indigestible carbohydrates that cannot be absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, but are an environment that promotes the reproduction of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli that are beneficial for the body. Prebiotics contain various ingredients, such as inulin and lactulose. The list of substances that stimulate the growth of beneficial microflora is constantly updated.
Probiotics are non-pathogenic living bacteria that, when used properly, normalize the intestinal microflora, eliminating pathogens and populating the body with beneficial microorganisms. Both bacteria and substances, including food products containing them, can act as probiotics.
Drugs that normalize the digestive tract microflora
Drugs with bifidobacteria and lactobacilli should be used as directed by a doctor. The specialist will choose the option suitable for a particular person, taking into account the data of the studies.
There are many drugs on sale that contain bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. The price of these drugs may vary significantly. It depends on the form in which the medicine is produced, the list of microorganisms that make up its composition, and other factors.
Probiotics with a liquid consistency are highly effective. This form provides a quick positive effect on the intestinal microflora. Their cost is usually higher than that of drugs produced in sublimated form. The price of liquid preparations can reach 1000 rubles. Preparations made in dry form will cost the consumer about 200 rubles.
Proper nutrition
A huge role in maintaining the normal state of intestinal microflora plays a balanced diet. Fermented milk products that are sources of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli should be present in the diet of each person. Useful will be the use of fruits and vegetables.
Among foods, there are also natural prebiotics that promote the growth of beneficial microorganisms. These include potatoes, leeks, asparagus, components containing starch, such as viscous rice.