Probiotics and intestinal microbiota: how to improve your digestion and immunity naturally

Our gut is home to a very large number of bacteria, collectively known as the gut microbiota ^[1]. An imbalance in this flora can be associated with bloating, digestive disorders, or temporary fatigue. Probiotics can support this intestinal ecosystem. Here is what scientific literature says and the formulas available on our site.

What is the gut microbiota?

The gut microbiota is the collection of bacteria, yeasts, and microorganisms that live in our gut ^[1]. It plays a role in:

• The digestion of fibers and nutrients ^[2]
• The synthesis of certain vitamins
• Supporting the intestinal immune system
• The gut-brain axis, currently being explored by research ^[3]

Probiotics: definition and functioning

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in sufficient quantities, may provide a health benefit ^[4]. They are studied for their ability to:

• Support the balance of intestinal flora
• Limit the proliferation of undesirable bacteria
• Support the intestinal barrier ^[5]

When to consider probiotics?

• In case of bloating, irregular bowel movements, or slow digestion
• After a course of antibiotics ^[6]
• During periods of stress or temporary fatigue ^[7]

Which strains are most studied?

• Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG: infectious diarrhea, post-antibiotic context ^[8]
• Bifidobacterium lactis: intestinal transit ^[9]
• Saccharomyces boulardii: post-antibiotic diarrhea ^[10]
• Lactobacillus plantarum: bloating, irritable bowel syndrome ^[11]
• Lactobacillus reuteri: studied in infants (colic) ^[12]

Dosage and practical advice

• Follow a course of at least 30 days, 1 to 2 times a year
• Take preferably on an empty stomach or before meals
• Store in a cool place if specified on the label
• Space out by 2 hours from antibiotic doses ^[13]

Products available on Pharmaplusfrance.store

• Probiotic-10 & Bifido Boost, 25 Billion CFU, 10 Strains (NOW Foods)
• Women's Probiotic 20 Billion, Vaginal and Intestinal Flora (NOW Foods)
• Aloe 10,000 & Probiotics (NOW Foods)

Conclusion

A balanced gut microbiota contributes to good digestion and general well-being. Carefully chosen probiotics can help support this balance. Discover the products actually available on Pharmaplusfrance.store, derived from strains documented in scientific literature.

Scientific References

1. Human Microbiome Project Consortium. Structure, function and diversity of the healthy human microbiome. Nature. 2012;486(7402):207-214.
2. Flint HJ, Scott KP, Louis P, Duncan SH. The role of the gut microbiota in nutrition and health. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2012.
3. Cryan JF, Dinan TG. Mind-altering microorganisms: the impact of the gut microbiota on brain and behaviour. Nat Rev Neurosci. 2012.
4. FAO/WHO. Guidelines for the Evaluation of Probiotics in Food. 2002.
5. Ouwehand AC et al. Probiotic mechanisms of action.
6. Hempel S et al. Probiotics for the prevention and treatment of antibiotic-associated diarrhea. JAMA. 2012;307(18):1959-1969.
7. Messaoudi M et al. Assessment of psychotropic-like properties of a probiotic formulation in rats and human subjects. Br J Nutr. 2011;105(5):755-764.
8. Szajewska H, Kotowska M, Mrukowicz JZ et al. Lactobacillus GG for acute gastroenteritis in children. J Pediatr. 2001.
9. Rizzardini G et al. Evaluation of the immune benefits of two probiotic strains. Br J Nutr / Clin Nutr. 2012.
10. McFarland LV. Systematic review and meta-analysis of Saccharomyces boulardii in adult patients. World J Gastroenterol. 2010;16(18):2202-2222.
11. Ducrotté P, Sawant P, Jayanthi V. Clinical trial: Lactobacillus plantarum 299v in irritable bowel syndrome. World J Gastroenterol. 2012.
12. Savino F et al. Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 for infantile colic. Pediatrics. 2007;119(1):e124-e130.
13. Marteau P. Probiotics and antibiotics: interactions. Gastroenterol Clin Biol. 2009.

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