The human intestine contains a very rich and diverse bacterial flora. It contains more than 1,000 species of bacteria. A healthy person has a very balanced composition of bacterial flora with a large number of micro-organisms that are not harmful to health. As a result of medication, radiotherapy, severe stress, various diseases (bacterial, viral, parasitic) or dietary mistakes, the composition of our intestinal fl ora changes.
The consequence is a disturbance of the patient's homeostatic system, which can lead to serious illnesses.
Probiotics have been shown to have a particularly beneficial effect on the proper functioning of our intestinal microflora. They are used not only in children, but also in adults for various gastrointestinal problems (especially during antibiotic therapy). They are also increasingly added to the diet in other situations, e.g. during poisoning, diarrhoea or when travelling. What do we know about probiotics? When should they be used? How do they benefit our intestinal microflora?
Symptoms and course disorders of intestinal microflora homeostasis
Probiotics have a protective effect on our entire digestive system. Doctors prescribe them in various situations. Among the most commonly mentioned are:
- Taking an antibiotic (especially when accompanied by diarrhoea)
- Acute diarrhoea (not only in children but also in adults)
- Diarrhoea during travel
- Irritable bowel syndrome (a chronic disease of the small and large intestines accompanied by abdominal pain and problems with bowel movements)
- Infections with rota viruses
Probiotics are nothing more than micro-organisms (yeasts, lactic acid bacilli, bifidobacteria and granulomas) that have a positive effect on the microflora of our intestines. Their function is to support their proper functioning. The role of probiotics is invaluable. Once absorbed into the intestine, they adhere to the intestinal walls and protect them from various types of harmful bacteria. In addition, they increase our immunity (it is worth remembering that this comes mainly from the intestines), reduce the level of bad cholesterol, prevent diarrhoea and, importantly, reduce susceptibility to the development of allergies in children.
Probiotics are divided into natural pro-biotic products and dietary supplements. Probiotic bacteria are particularly abundant in curdled milk, kefir, yoghurt and buttermilk
When to go to the doctor and treat disorders of intestinal microflora homeostasis
Everyone should take care of their natural intestinal microflora. In case of any problems with the digestive system (diarrhoea, constipation, abdominal pain, problems with food intake and digestion), we should visit a gastrologist as soon as possible.
