INSIGHTS

Boosting Immune Health

Part 2 – Harnessing the Power of Probiotics

Probiotics for better immunity

In Part 1 we talked about the importance of fiber and prebiotics in supporting gut health. Another big topic which goes hand in hand with prebiotics is “Probiotics”. Although they sound very similar, prebiotics and probiotics play very different roles. In this second part of our “Boosting Immune Health” series, we will have a closer look at the probiotics food trend and how probiotics support health and boost immunity.

What is a probiotic?

Probiotics are live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer health benefit on the host. This is the definition from the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations and the World Health Organization (FAO/WHO). Probiotics are naturally present in traditional fermented foods and beverages. The most common probiotics are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium and are found in yogurt, kimchi and kambucha tea, for example. Probiotic bacteria are often called “good bacteria”. They live in our bodies and reside in the skin, mouth, lungs, vagina, and mostly in our gastrointestinal tracts.

How do probiotics work?

From the probiotics definition, they confer a health benefit on the host. When good bacteria live in the host they, affect microbiome activity. Probiotics use indigestible carbohydrates, also known as prebiotic fiber as food sources for increased growth. Probiotics metabolise fibers and convert them into organic acids, short chain fatty acids substances. Some probiotic strains and their metabolites, such as organic acids, can inhibit and imbalance pathogens and harmful bacteria growth in that system.

Furthermore, some of probiotic metabolites, such as short chain fatty acids, have a positive impact on the immune system of our bodies. Probiotics make up a variety of species and genera that each support different living systems and functions.

Health benefits of probiotics

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Balance good bacteria and sustain health by inhibiting harmful bacteria growth

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Help prevent and treat diarrhea

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Modulate immune system

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Reduce risk to inflammation

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Reduce the Severity of certain allergies and eczema

Conclusion – Part 2

To make probiotics work and get the most benefit from them, an adequate amount of probiotics and prebiotics consumption is important. Fermented foods or probiotic foods are promoted as healthy food to consume. Nowadays probiotics, prebiotics or synbiotics (combination of probiotics and prebiotics), as dietary supplements, are alternatives for consumers to not overconsume nutrients, such as sodium, from kimchi or natto. Dietary supplements are convenient and have a variety of product applications. Furthermore, formulation development can be tailored specifically to target health such as relieving constipation, vaginal care, and oral health.

JJ are pleased to present our “Synbiotics Instant Smoothie Mix” that is easy to prepare. Just add milk, ice and our instant mix to refresh yourself while supplying pre and probiotics in adequate amounts to help to relieve constipation symptoms. If you would like to get guideline formulations, or require consultation for developing probiotics mix formulations, please contact us.