Defined by the World Health Organization as “live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a beneficial effect on the health of the subject who receives them” , probiotics can be helpful in certain pathologies, such as dysbiosis , which It occurs as a consequence of an imbalance of the bacteria that live in the intestine (intestinal microbiota), irritable bowel syndrome , inflammatory bowel disease and situations in which the microbiota has been affected, such as after taking antibiotics. In the latter case, it is advisable to ask your doctor or pharmacist which supplement is the most appropriate. These pharmacy supplements prevent diarrhea and vaginal infections that antibiotics can cause.
On the other hand, there would be prebiotics, which are mostly carbohydrates that we are not able to digest and that pass to the intestine, where the bacteria ferment and feed on them. To differentiate them from probiotics, probiotics are living microorganisms and prebiotics are food for bacteria . “What matters is that there is a balance between some bacteria and others. If there is an imbalance, dysbiosis occurs, an alteration that can generate a series of diseases, stomach upset, diarrhea … ”, explains Roberto Vidal, also known as The Nutritional Coach.
And what exactly is the gut microbiota ? “The microbiota is a population of” bugs “, of bacteria and yeasts that we have in the intestine that fulfills as a main function a role at the immunological level , at the level of defenses. They are in charge of continuously telling the lymphocytes, the antibodies, which are the bugs to attack and which ones not. It also has a very important role at the level of nutrient synthesis, regulation at the insulin level . The microbiota is even spoken of as the second brain because it plays a very important role at the level of metabolism. In fact, 70% -80% of the intestine is where serotonin is manufactured, a very important hormone at the level of well-being ”, explains the dietitian-nutritionist.
Vidal recommends taking care of the intestine , but points out that “ ingesting probiotics when you already have a healthy microbiota has not been seen to improve . The evidence says that it is not clear that taking probiotics while healthy will help you, so it is not necessary at this point. “
Here are 10 probiotic foods that are good for maintaining the health of the gut microbiota. Take aim!
