Role of Probiotics
Most probiotics do not colonise you, they exert their beneficial effect by shifting an ecosystem back into balance that is disrupted by environment, diet or medication. Probiotics can increase microbial diversity, decrease pathogens and their toxins and promote immune responses against targeted microbes. It is believed that they primarily exert their effects within the small intestine because of the reduced density i.e. more car parking spaces are available.
The top 8 probiotic-rich foods are yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, miso, pickles, tempeh, kimchi and kombucha. An average western diet does not include these foods as we have to some extent undervalued the art of fermenting at home. There are now a variety of options in stores for fermented products which are a great substitute if you are time poor and cannot ferment at home.
Whilst we feel that you should be able to get all the nutrients you need from the food in your diet, an Akesi Bio-Fermented Tonic is a convenient way to support overall wellbeing by introducing multiple species of beneficial microbes into the body. For children, developing their palate to accommodate fermented foods takes time. Berry Spritzer can be a much easier and more successful alternative.
When choosing a good quality probiotic ensure it:
- Contains multiple probiotic species
- Contains both Lactobacilli and Bifidobacterium species
- States a CFU count above 1 billion
- Contains a CFU count that is maintained throughout the shelf life of the product
- Is manufactured in a licensed manufacturing facility
There is considerable research to support probiotic supplementation for the treatment and management of:
- Necrotising Enterocolitis in premature babies
- Colic and constipation in newborns
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Allergies
- Travellers’ diarrhoea
- Antibiotic associated diarrhoea (AAD)
- Clostridium difficile diarrhoea (hospital setting)
“Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit to the host. ”
— WHO
More research is emerging to suggest that probiotic supplement can also assist with:
- Digestive health by rebalancing the gut microbiota
- Supporting the immune system
- Improving the gut wall’s protective mucosa
- Maintaining healthy bowel habits
- Improving your psychological well-being
