Study on Probiotics and Gut Health
Research Background
A recent study explored whether beneficial bacteria in a specific formulation can traverse the digestive system unaltered, ultimately colonizing the gut and providing health advantages. The global market for probiotic products has proven to be lucrative, with projections estimating profits exceeding $46 billion by 2020. However, the production methods for these oral probiotic supplements are often inadequate, failing to protect these bacteria from degradation in the human digestive tract. Consequently, the good bacteria may not reach the small intestine in a viable state, leading to doubts about the actual health benefits, which may often be attributed to placebo effects.
Key Findings from New Research
Recent research published in the *International Journal of Pharmaceutics* indicates that beneficial bacteria delivered through the live probiotic Symprove™ can successfully navigate the digestive tract without being compromised. This formulation not only colonizes the gut but also modifies gut flora and the immune response. The study utilized a new Simulator of the Human Intestinal Microbial Ecosystem (SHIME) to analyze the bacteria sourced from healthy human donors. This innovative approach allowed researchers to investigate bacteria through an in-vitro simulation of the human digestive process, eliminating the need for invasive techniques.
Impact on Gut Flora
The introduction of probiotics from Symprove in healthy human donors resulted in alterations to the composition of bacterial groups within the gut flora. Notably, there was a substantial increase in butyrate, a fatty acid crucial for health and wellness. The study also demonstrated that Symprove elevated anti-inflammatory markers IL-6 and IL-10 while reducing levels of inflammatory chemokines IL-8, MCP-1, and CXCL10, which are associated with inflammatory conditions and viral infections.
Implications for Health Conditions
Certain health issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome, are characterized by a deficiency in beneficial bacteria like firmicutes and actinobacteria. The study revealed that Symprove can enhance the levels of these essential bacteria. Additionally, understanding the roles of probiotics versus prebiotics is vital for addressing specific gut health challenges. For further insights, VitaLiving offers a valuable article on this topic.
Expert Commentary
Barry Smith, Founder and Chairman of Symprove Limited, remarked, “Our research over the last 20 years has pushed to understand more about the microbiome and the essential role it plays in our overall health. This new research demonstrates the impact live and active probiotics can have on the body beyond the gut.”
References
Moens, F et al. 2018. A four-strain probiotic exerts positive immunomodulatory effects by enhancing colonic butyrate production in vitro. *International Journal of Pharmaceutics.* 555, pp. 1-10.
Eurekalert. 2018. Live probiotics can re-balance the gut microbiome and modify immune system response. [Online]. [19 December 2018]. Available from: https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2018-11/chp-lpc111918.php
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