Numerous studies in the field of gut-bacteria suggest that certain bacteria in the gut can address many common conditions pre-emptively. The bacteria can be classified in layman’s terms as good or bad bacteria. The equilibrium of good and bad bacteria must be nearly perfect for the body to function properly. There are about a thousand different species of bacteria, subdivided into five thousand distinct bacterial strains. These play a role in fibre digestion, and also synthesize certain vitamins such as biotin and folate. These bacteria have a prominent role in the immune system, inflammation, mental health, cardiovascular system and metabolic health, yet these are not given much recognition.
A few examples of good bacterial flora are Bifidobacteria, Lactobacilli and Escherichia coli.
Bifidobacteria strains help to regulate levels of other bacteria in the gut. These also modulate immune responses to invading pathogens, prevent tumour formation, and produce vitamins.
Lactobacilli produce vitamins and nutrients, boost immunity, and protect against carcinogens.
E. coli are involved in the production of vitamin K2 which is essential for blood clotting, and help to keep bad bacteria in check along with Bifidobacteria. Most people associate E. coli with illness, but only a select few strains actually cause infection.
Campylobacter (C. jejuni and C. coli) are the strains commonly associated with most human diseases. Infection usually occurs through the ingestion of contaminated food. Enterococcus faecalis is a common cause of post-surgical infections. Clostridium difficile is another species of harmful bacteria that causes infectious diarrhoea. A vast majority of its victims are patients in hospitals or long-term care facilities.
Prebiotics are non-digestible food components that promote good bacteria growth; it is the good bacteria’s food. Probiotics are the actual live, beneficial bacteria. In principle, they work in synergy with each other and maintain good gut bacteria.
Modern research suggests that gut bacteria are important to one’s overall health. Scientists have identified two strains of bacteria that are lacking in the guts of subjects who had mood-related conditions. The study also provides strong evidence that an association between gut health and the brain health exist. The research also connects the functions of gut bacteria’s influence on cognition. There is strong evidence that endogenous bacteria have ways to communicate and potentially influence one’s behaviour via biochemical processes. If bad bacteria can influence health negatively, why can’t good bacteria positively affect health? Recent research indicates that gut bacteria is the key to healthy ageing as well. Apart from these indications, good gut health and a thriving colony of bacteria can produce flatulence, showing signs of a good digestive tract. As Hippocrates said, “All disease begins in the gut;” a perfect balance of good and bad bacteria can lead to a properly functioning body. It is truly sad that the gut microbiome is often referred to as the “Forgotten Organ.”
In essence, a well-balanced gut can save a person from many health concerns and this opens a new frontier in modern medicine, involving gut health supplements and innovative solutions to prevalent problems.
