EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE MICROBIOME

Hardly any other topic is discussed as much as the intestinal microbiome. There are currently thousands of studies on this so-called intestinal flora, which is why it has revolutionised our understanding of health and the development of diseases. Scientists have called this microbiome a 'super-organism' or 'super-organ.' The microbiome is located in the small intestine and consists of around 100 trillion bacteria and microbes that weight between 1.5 to 2 kilograms. We recently sat down with the experts at Lanserhof Lans and Lanserhof Tegernsee to find out more.

WHY A HEALTHY INTESTINAL FLORA IS IMPORTANT

First, it is important to look at the task of the intestinal bacteria in the digestive tract. This bacteria comes from the food we eat and its extract is good for us. They half the sugar molecules, create healthy short-chain fatty acids for the large intestine and even provide some amino acids and vitamins from which the most important proteins are composed. In addition, they provide an acid PH value and eliminate toxins to protect the intestine from harmful germs. Most importantly, they influence the immune system in a decisive way. If there is a balance between the bacteria and the microbes, our immune system is stronger and so the body is less susceptible to allergies and diseases. This healthy immune system allows the body to have more energy and can metabolise our ingested food more effectively, and therefore influence positive digestion.

Through research on microbial it has also been revealed there are new insights into the development of people being overweight. In the past, it was thought that a higher calorie intake than normal calorie consumption was the only reason for being overweight. We now know that overweight individuals have different type of microbiome. This microbiome has the ability to better utilise food and draw more calories than bacteria seen in slim people and then deposit them in fat storage. 

HOW TO KEEP YOUR BOWELS HEALTHY

The more balanced and species-rich the microbiome, the more stable our health becomes, and so we are more protected against diseases. This can be achieved through a balanced and nutrient-rich diet. It promotes the reproduction of 'good' bacteria. Foods such as sweeteners, sugar, alcohol, white flour and highly processed food are bad for the intestinal flora. This can also have a lasting negative effect on your body if you take certain medications such as antibiotics. By having a diet that is varied and rich in plant fibres, you can create a positive impact on the microbiome. 

If the microbe is thrown off by certain behaviour patterns such as antibiotic therapy, it can usually be regenerated through a healthy diet and preparations. In addition, the intake of probiotics, which contain the corresponding microorganisms, can be beneficial. The intestinal flora needs prebiotic dietary fibres which can also be seen as food for intestinal bacteria, which can be important for the development of healthy intestinal bacteria. This minimises unfavourable bacteria. 

TIPS FOR BETTER INTESTINAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

1. Only take antibiotics if necessary as they damage the intestinal flora
2. When eating fibre, it should be in the form of root and bulb vegetables, oats and flakeS
3. You should refrain from using disinfectant household cleaners. These cleaners create an environment where allergies and asthma occur more frequently, which weaken the intestinal flora
4. Ensure that you are exercising regularly as it can have a positive impact on the intestine
5. Avoid negative stress as the hormones produced can damage intestinal cells. This can be helped by taking regular medication to deal with stressful situations
6. A balanced and varied diet can work wonders on your body. Try to include foods that support the intestinal flora long term such as garlic, leek, tomatoes, beans, cereals, potatoes, apples and bananas
7. Cook with fresh ingredients more often that provide vitamins and nutrients. By knowing what is exactly in your food there are no chances of it having harmful additives which can damage the intestinal flora
8. Interval fasting has been proven to increase the intestines bacterial diversity and can significantly improve the metabolic parameters in the organs and tissues