As described in the Global Guidelines published by the World Gastroenterology Organisation (WGO)* on probiotics and prebiotics, we can define gut flora, also known as gut microbiota, as the set of bacteria that live in the gut. Gut microflora contains more than 100 billion micro-organisms with more than 1000 different species of bacteria. Only 1/3 of this microflora is common to everyone, the rest is specific to each person.
Why do disorders occur in a healthy microbiota?
- Changes to diet. Deficient or inadequate diet.
- Periods of stress.
- Toxic substance abuse, such as narcotics, alcohol, coffee, tobacco, etc.
- Frequent infections.
- Certain pharmaceutical drugs, such as antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medication, IBP (omeprazole).
Consequences of a disordered microbiota:
- Gases and flatulence (meteorism). Abdominal bloating.
- Gut disorders. Constipation and sometimes diarrhoea.
- Weakened immune system.
Benefits of a healthy microbiota:
- Strengthens the immune system. Improves the immune barrier.
- Prevents the entry of pathogenic micro-organisms.
- Improves the absorption of nutrients and contributes to good bodily functioning.
According to the WGO* Global Guidelines you can get a healthy gut flora (microbiota) by consuming the proper amounts of:
PROBIOTICS – Live micro-organisms that provide health benefits to the host when administered in correct amounts. They are found in yoghurt and fermented dairy products, kefir, ice cream, sugar-free dark chocolate.
PREBIOTICS – Substances present in foods that can stimulate the growth and correct functioning of gut bacteria. They are usually indigestible carbohydrates present in fruit and vegetables, especially artichokes, bananas, asparagus, tomatoes, spinach, etc.
SYMBIOTICS – Products that contain both probiotics and prebiotics. The most important example of a natural symbiotic food is breast milk.
*Guarner, F., Sanders, M. et al (2017). Probiotics and prebiotics. World Gastroenterology Organisation.
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