What are prebiotics and probiotics?
Prebiotics and probiotics: What are they?
Prebiotics are ingredients that selectively stimulate the growth or activity of certain bacteria (or a small bacterial population) in the gut.
According to the WHO/FAO definition, "probiotics are live microorganisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit beyond traditional nutritional effects" (see footnote *).
Key points to remember about prebiotics and probiotics
A probiotic supplement = a selection of microorganisms that promotes the maintenance and functions of the intestinal microbiota.
A prebiotic = the "food" (non-digestible substrates) of these microorganisms.
Some important concepts about the gut and the microbiota
• Our gut contains approximately 1 to 2 kg of microbiota biomass. These microorganisms, grouped into several hundred categories, are about 10 times more numerous than the cells contained in the entire body (100 trillion!).
• This microbiota (NB: there are other microbiotas besides the gut microbiota) plays a crucial role in at least two vital functions: digestion and immune system function. Its effectiveness depends primarily on its composition.
• This is a rapidly growing field and new discoveries about the functions of the gut microbiota are common.
• While the composition of the gut microbiota is relatively stable in adults, it varies considerably from one individual to another, particularly depending on their diet. Factors such as obesity, certain diseases, antibiotic treatments, diets low in fruits and vegetables, consumption of fermented products (yogurt, kefir, etc.), and aging influence the composition and diversity of the microbiota and alter its function for better or for worse.
• The goal of probiotics is to provide a selection of "beneficial" bacteria that, after multiplying in the gut, will improve the functioning of the gut microbiota. It's important to note that the bacteria in a probiotic supplement are only temporary visitors to the gut and will disappear on their own after a few weeks.
• Vegetarian diets are generally rich in prebiotics (insoluble fibers), which may be sufficient to maintain a healthy gut microbiota. However, in cases of intestinal discomfort or after an illness, taking probiotics and prebiotics may be recommended. The benefits are even more pronounced in older adults and those who consume few fruits and vegetables.
The effectiveness of probiotics is based on specific criteria
• They must be able to withstand pH levels and bile, and arrive in the intestine still alive (or freeze-dried). To guarantee their effectiveness, it is essential that the probiotics reach the colon alive and in sufficient numbers. During their passage through the stomach, they must be able to withstand gastric acid and then pancreatic juices without degradation; this is why the dosage form must be adapted and use gastro-resistant capsules.
• They must be composed of strains selected for the desired effect (mainly from the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium genera).
• They should be used as a treatment for at least 10 days per month.
* From a regulatory standpoint, and despite scientific results showing the importance of gut flora for health, it should be noted that, in the European Union, no probiotic has yet been accepted by the EFSA in Regulation 1924/2006 governing claims made about food supplements.
Does Phytocea offer probiotic supplements?
At Phytocea , we have designed an optimal blend of pre- and probiotics to maintain the function of the gut microbiota: "Flore Daily". Flore Daily is a nutraceutical food supplement that aims to contribute to digestive comfort and the maintenance of a healthy gut microbiota.
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