Art of Diet

Our Microflora

Ms H

We have trillions of bacteria, microflora living on our skin, in our mouth, nose and our intestines These bacteria take residence in our bodies from the day we are born and remain with us throughout our lives. The gut contains the largest numbers of bacteria and the greatest number of species compared to other areas of the body.  The human gastrointestinal tract contains stable population of bacteria that play an important role in nutrition, metabolism, regulation of immune function and protection. We know that the ideal pH in the colon should be between 6.7 and 6.9.  The colon needs to be slightly acidic, which inhibits the growth of undesirable bacteria like Salmonella, Shigella, and E. coli. Our beneficial bacteria are made up of hundreds of different species, the principal two of which are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria.  

These bacteria are found in the normal microflora of the intestine and research shows that they play an important role in improving digestion and intestinal health as well as helping to regulate the immune system. Some situations and lifestyle habits can damage gut bacteria such as taking antibiotics and drinking highly chlorinated water.  The effective ways to achieve healthy microflora  are the followings.

·      Traditional fermented foods

Eating fermented foods is the most natural way to improve gut flora and get the beneficial of probiotic bacteria. Fermented foods help to balance acetylcholine.  Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that enables the transmission of nerve impulses. Within the context of digestion, it helps increase the movement of the bowel, and can help reduce constipation. Fermented foods inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria and are beneficial for people with diabetes. 

·      Probiotic supplements

Many people find it difficult to consume sufficient amount of fermented foods in this case an effective alternative is to take a probiotic supplements

Probiotic supplements help in; easing IBS, improving mood, soothing eczema, boosting immune system, aiding weight loss.

·      Lactic acid yeast wafers

Lactic acid yeast is a modified form of brewer’s yeast that works in your intestines to produce significant amounts of lactic acid. Lactic acid yeast wafers work the same way fermented foods do.

If we take probiotic supplement or/and eat traditional fermented foods will be enough to increase the number of beneficial microorganisms in our gut. These bacteria will then start to ferment more soluble fibre into products like butyric acid, acetic acid, lactic acid, and propionic acid, which in order provide energy and improve our ability to absorb minerals, vitamins, and fat.