Welcome to our blog dedicated to intestinal health and probiotics, the unsung heroes of your body!
Today we have the opportunity to explore this crucial topic through an interview with Anna Barberà, a pharmacist at Pasteur with extensive experience in the field.
She will tell us about how probiotics can have a huge impact on your health and what we can do to keep our gut microbiota in good condition.
What are probiotics and why are they important for intestinal health?
Probiotics are live microorganisms found in our gut, essential for digestion and the proper absorption of nutrients. They also keep the intestinal wall and our defenses in shape. An imbalance in the gut microbiota can lead to inflammatory bowel diseases and infections, as well as unwanted changes in bowel movements.
Main benefits of probiotics
The benefits of probiotics are impressive. Studies have shown that a proper balance of the gut microbiota can prevent gastrointestinal diseases, and is also linked to the prevention of obesity, the improvement of immune-related infections, and the prevention of allergies and intolerances. Furthermore, there is a positive impact on neurodegenerative diseases and general mental health.
Proper probiotic consumption
Anna warns us about the dangers of the modern environment to our gut microbiota. The use of antibiotics, alcohol abuse, tobacco, stress, and processed foods rich in fats can eliminate these beneficial microorganisms, allowing the entry and proliferation of pathogenic bacteria. Therefore, we are not always consuming enough probiotics naturally.
Natural sources of probiotics
Fortunately, there are ways to restore balance. It is recommended to include fermented foods in our diet, such as yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir. These tasty options not only enhance the flavor of your dishes but also promote intestinal health.
Probiotic supplements
Even if we include probiotic-rich foods, due to our lifestyle it will not be enough to consume sufficient natural probiotics. That is why the use of probiotic supplements is recommended. At our pharmacies, we can advise you on which supplements can help you meet your specific needs. Perhaps you need a 10-day treatment to reverse the side effects of an infection treated with antibiotics, or a longer treatment for chronic intestinal inflammation. The key is personalization, to ensure you are getting what you need.
The union of probiotics and digestive enzymes
Digestive enzymes work together with probiotics for intestinal health. While enzymes take care of food digestion, probiotics maintain gut health, allowing for better nutrient absorption and improving your general health. It is a symbiotic relationship that does wonders for your well-being.
Tips for better intestinal health
Anna gives us some practical tips to keep our gut microbiota in good condition:
- Watch your diet, avoid excesses and processed foods. Remember that moderation is key.
- Maintain a routine of meal times and try to rest the body for a minimum of 8 hours fasting during the night.
- In case of intestinal discomfort, do not hesitate to consult a specialist for proper treatment.
- If you experience changes in your routine, such as a trip or a medical treatment, take preventive measures with the appropriate probiotics.
Our pharmacist Anna Barberà has offered us a fascinating insight into the importance of probiotics for intestinal health. With a balanced diet, fermented foods, and probiotic supplements, we can help protect our microbiota and improve our overall health. So, if you are concerned about your intestinal health, do not hesitate to consult with a professional, such as the Pasteur pharmacy, to get the best advice and personalized treatments.
Types of probiotics
There is a very large variety of probiotics on the market, but if we have to make a choice of the most outstanding ones, they would be the following.
Lactibiane Référence, is a probiotic with 4 strains of probiotics that improve intestinal flora. Its great resistance to stomach acids helps the probiotics reach the intestine intact, where they will help improve digestion, avoid digestive problems such as diarrhea or constipation, and promote the recovery of intestinal flora. This product is highly recommended to accompany a course of antibiotics.
Lactibiane Tolérance, is an even more complete probiotic than Lactibiane Référence, as it incorporates a total of 5 strains. They also have great resistance to gastric acids. Its action is more intensive than other probiotics when it comes to recovering intestinal flora. Ideal to take along with antibiotic treatment.
MegaLevure, contains 4 strains of bacteria that rebalance intestinal flora and improve digestion. Ideal for gas, constipation, or diarrhea. Contains Vitamin D which strengthens defenses.
BioGaia Gastrus is a food supplement that contains two types of live bacteria strains (L. reuteri DSM 17938 and L. reuteri ATCC PTA 6475). This combination improves digestion and recovers digestive flora.
Prodefen Plus contains 7 strains of probiotics, which live naturally in the digestive system. Contains fructooligosaccharides, which is a prebiotic. Vitamin D improves our body's defensive system. Ideal to take along with antibiotic treatments.
Ultra Levure, a classic among probiotics, contains Saccharomyces boulardii. Highly recommended in cases of acute diarrhea or to prevent them in case of taking antibiotics.
Thanks for reading our blog and stay tuned for more informative content about health and wellness!
Don't miss the blog summary on our Instagram reel! HERE