The lining of our intestine is covered with micro-organisms, mostly bacteria. Some of these can cause infection and disease while other types of bacteria help us to fight diseases and stay healthy.Our immune system needs the right combination of good and bacteria so that we can stay healthy and rely less on medications.
Good bacteria in the body help to:
- Ferment plant fibre that cannot be digested by human body
- Provide energy from undigested food
- Produce certain vitamins like Vit K and B vitamins like B2, B9 and B12
- Prevent the growth of bad bacteria
- Regulate the appetite, energy metabolism and fat storage
Conditions such as stress, excessive alcohol use, diets high in processed foods, sugar, fat and artificial sweeteners but low in fibre can cause an imbalance of good and bad bacteria in the body.
If bad bacteria outnumber the good bacteria they would ferment food in incorrect way and toxins might be produced. This may lead to health problems such as abdominal pain, stool irregularity (functional bowel disorders), inflammatory bowel disease, allergies, obesity, diabetes. & related problems.
Through this presentation, let us understand the role of Prebiotics and Probiotics in managing and even preventing various diseases.
