The human intestinal microbiota plays a key role in human health and disease
The human gastro-intestinal tract harbours 1010 to 1011 microorganisms (ten to hundred billon!), the so-called intestinal- or gut microbiota. It contains approximately as many genes as the human genome. This intestinal microbiota plays a key role in human health and disease.
Crucial role gut microbiome
How the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in human health:
- It strengthens the lining of the gut.
- It protects against harmful pathogens.
- It regulates host immunity.
- It helps with food digestion.
- It regulates the hormonal and neurological signals in the gut.
- It alters the effects and metabolism of medications.
- It removes toxins and produces various compounds that affect the host.
Disturbed microbiota and chronic diseases
Disturbances of the composition and function of the intestinal microbiota have been linked to chronic diseases. Ranging from gut-related inflammatory and metabolic disorders to neurological, cardiovascular, and respiratory illnesses. Furthermore, research indicates that a greater diversity of bacteria in the gut can provide better resistance to external influences compared to a less diverse population. Therefore, high bacterial diversity is often seen as a positive sign of gut health.
Probiotic formulations for health indications
In a healthy state, the intestinal microbiota is balanced. However, factors like stress, infection, environment, medication (including antibiotics), and an unhealthy diet can disrupt this balance, affecting health and potentially leading to disease. Probiotics have the potential to prevent and restore disturbances in the intestinal microbiota. Winclove has developed multiple premium probiotic formulations targeting health issues related to disruptions in intestinal microbial balance.