INTESTINAL FLORA, PRE AND PROBIOTICS

Intestinal microbiota, or intestinal flora as it is more commonly known, consists of a group of micro-organisms that are present in the human intestine, where they maintain a mutually beneficial relationship called SYMBOSIS.

Bacterial flora begins forming soon after birth, acquiring a stable composition in adulthood. Throughout our lives, this microbiota is influenced by such factors as maternal colonisation, diet, environmental exposure and the use of antibiotics. Any of these factors can cause an imbalance in the intestinal flora, called DISBIOSIS, leading to a reduction in bacterial diversity that has been linked to the appearance of a number of diseases.

The relationship between the intestinal microbiota and human health has generated increasing interest in the study and adoption of measures for the prevention and treatment of various diseases, based on the replacement and maintenance of the intestinal flora, by increasing the intake of prebiotics and probiotics.

 PREBIOTICS are fibres (non-digestible carbohydrates) that serve as food for the intestinal flora and ingested probiotics, exerting a beneficial physiological effect on the body's health and well-being by selectively stimulating the growth and activity of these micro-organisms.

 PREBIOTICS are known as the "good" bacteria that have a beneficial effect on human health. Probiotics are micro-organisms which, when consumed in adequate quantities, enrich the flora present in the intestine, protecting the body from pathogenic bacteria. Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium bacteria and the yeast Saccharomyces are the best known probiotics. Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, e a levedura Saccharomyces são os probióticos mais conhecidos.

Intestinal health is essential for the overall well-being of our bodies. The intestine is responsible for several vital functions that include digestion, nutrient absorption and body defence. A diet that is rich in fibre and low in fat, physical exercise and reducing alcohol and tobacco consumption are measures that promote this healthiness.

The consumption of SIMBIOTICS, supplements that mix prebiotics with probiotics, also provides a suitable enhancement of bacterial flora, helping improve intestinal function. These types of product are very successfully in preventing and treating diarrhoea, constipation and unregulated intestinal transit.

There is still a lot of research going on in this area, but the evidence points to the enormous potential of symbiotics in preventing a number of intestinal diseases and boosting the immune system, improving the body's ability to defend itself from possible infections.

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