What are probiotics?
The human body is made up of different microbiomes, environments in which microorganisms develop.
These are called “probiotics” and include bacteria, yeasts, and fungi.
Lactobacilli and bifidobacteria are the most prevalent. These microorganisms play a major role within the gut microbiota.
They primarily help maintain the balance between beneficial and pathogenic bacteria. The former should always outnumber the latter. In this way, they prevent dysbiosis, meaning an imbalance of the intestinal flora.
The gut microbiota is the largest of all: it contains 100 trillion bacteria and hundreds of different strains.
At the same time, they strengthen the barrier function of the mucous membranes. In this way, they fight microbial attacks that can impair intestinal health.
In studies, probiotics have shown promise in relieving Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), also called Irritable Colon Syndrome (ICS).
Although it can be of infectious origin, this condition is often caused by an imbalance of the intestinal microbiota.
In the case of irritable bowel, it is therefore recommended to follow a diet rich in probiotics. Dairy products, brewer’s yeast and fermented beverages, such as kefir or kombucha, are good sources.
There are also dietary supplements based on probiotics and made up of different strains.
Read also | How to choose the best probiotics?
How do they help relieve irritable bowel syndrome?
They rebalance and improve the composition of the gut microbiota
As shown by this study, people suffering from irritable bowel syndrome have an imbalance of the intestinal microbiota.
Thus, it contains fewer lactobacilli and bifidobacteria. On the other hand, it contains more streptococci and bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Clostridium.
These bacteria are naturally present in the intestines. However, they can be pathogenic and may multiply abnormally.
They then cause discomfort and intestinal transit disorders.
Consuming probiotics helps to rebalance the environment and improve the bacterial composition. They inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and increase the population of good bacteria.
This study shows the link between microbiota composition and irritable bowel syndrome.
They strengthen the intestinal barrier
As in cases of SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth), people with irritable bowel syndrome have intestinal hyperpermeability.
The mucosa is weakened and less effective at fighting pathogens. This leads to many digestive disorders.
Probiotics reinforce this barrier function and stimulate immunity within the gut microbiota.
This study shows their beneficial effects on strengthening the intestinal barrier.
They relieve symptoms
Irritable bowel syndrome causes bloating, flatulence, digestive problems, and abdominal pain. It can also be accompanied by constipation and/or diarrhea.
Thanks to their various actions on the microbiota, probiotics can reduce these symptoms. They help restore well-being and intestinal comfort.
In this study, they improved symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
Which ones should you choose?
Among the hundreds of different bacterial species, some are more effective than others at relieving irritable bowel syndrome.
The most interesting strains are the following :
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus
- Lactobacillus plantarum
- Bifidobacterium infantis
- Bacillus coagulans
In this study, the bacterium Bacillus coagulans helped improve symptoms including bloating and abdominal pain.
