What are these probiotics?
Probiotics are simply symbiotic bacteria that live in our
guts. They prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in the digestive tract,
strengthen the immune system, and promote the multiplication of other symbiotic
bacteria, laying the foundation for a healthy digestive system.
There are about 400 types of this type of symbiotic bacteria
that normally grow in humans, and these are mostly found as lactic acid
bacteria. For example, the bacterium Lactobacillus acidophilus comes with
yogurt, and yeast is also a probiotic, or symbiotic bacteria. In particular,
these probiotic bacteria can be obtained as nutritional supplements. These probiotic
bacteria can be obtained from dairy foods such as yogurt and cheese, soy foods
such as miso, and foods such as sauerkraut made from cabbage. Even if a food
contains symbiotic bacteria in nominal quantities, it is not enough to name it
as a probiotic. In that case, the density of the bacterial population in it
must be at least 106 or millions per gram.
Foods with probiotics, probiotics that are good for the
body… You must have seen countless advertisements mentioning these foods. But
what are these probiotics? Most people in society are still not able to give a
clear answer to this question. Therefore, we decided to provide you with some
important information about probiotics and the ‘prebiotics’ that have become
like bark on a tree.
Most people who talk about probiotics are not aware of the
fact that prebiotics are equally important, but they are non-digestible food
components that provide a background for the growth of probiotic bacteria. In
particular, the non-digestible fiber contained in food provides habitat and
nutrition for many symbiotic bacteria. These include fructo- and galacto - oligosaccharides,
which can be obtained from foods such as bananas, garlic, leeks, and soybeans.
Probiotic bacteria and prebiotic components work together to make our digestive
system healthy.
How do probiotics and prebiotics work together?
Probiotics are symbiotic bacteria. Prebiotics are compounds that provide them with a supportive environment and nutrients to grow. The combination of these two types is called ‘symbiotic’. After prebiotic foods enter the digestive system, they are broken down by digestive enzymes or acids. These become a source of nutrition for the symbiotic bacteria that live in our intestines. Symbiotic bacteria grow well when they receive nutrients and substrates that support their growth. Due to this, the percentage of symbiotic bacteria, or probiotic bacteria, increases. Eating foods containing both can maintain a very good level of digestive health.
Health benefits of probiotics
Having the right amount of probiotics or symbiotic bacteria
in the digestive system provides excellent health benefits. The primary
functions of these bacteria are to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in
the body by secreting enzymes, producing components such as vitamin B12,
vitamin K, and stimulating the production of T-lymphocytes. In addition, these
bacteria strengthen the immune system, destroy things like fungi, and minimize
the damage to the body from various diseases and complications. Regular
consumption of probiotic foods can also help reduce body weight easily.
In addition, probiotics, or symbiotic bacteria, play a great
role in reducing urinary tract infections, reducing food poisoning and
indigestion, treating urinary stones, and reducing diseases such as liver
problems, cancer, and cholesterol.
Health benefits of prebiotics
Prebiotics promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, so all the benefits of probiotics apply to them. In addition, their fibrous nature may help reduce the risk of cancer and reduce constipation. Eating foods high in fiber is important when trying to lose weight, and these foods provide magnesium, iron, and calcium, which helps maintain bone health. Prebiotics also help regulate the secretion of certain hormones.