How beneficial bacteria support long-term health

 by: Dena Schmidt, staff writer | May 27, 2024

(NaturalHealth365)  Recent research found that bifidobacteria in the gut microbiome play a crucial role in reducing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors such as obesity, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes by improving metabolic and immune functions.  Earlier research from the UCLA School of Medicine came to a similar conclusion, underscoring the role of gut health in cardiovascular health, mood, and the immune system’s ability to fight disease.

Yet, how many conventionally trained physicians focus on gut health?  The answer is obvious (very few) … which is why you may want to find a better healthcare provider – especially if you’re dealing with serious health issues.

There are literally trillions of microorganisms in the gut that help regulate numerous bodily functions, including the endocrine system, digestion, metabolism, and the immune system.  That being said, it’s obvious that a diverse microbiome is key to a long, healthy life.

Bifidobacteria – a cornerstone of gut health

The Human Microbiome Project, launched by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), was created to encourage scientific advancements in knowledge regarding the human gut microbiome.  They have determined that optimal bifidobacterial balance, in particular, is crucial to critical areas of gut health and overall health.

The bifidobacterial group of gut bacteria is among the most beneficial to the human system.  Bifidobacteria perform a range of health functions, including fighting respiratory illnesses, allergies and countering the effects of stress.  They are also pivotal in lowering excess cholesterol and preventing anxiety.

Although we tend to start life with a robust amount of bifidobacterial bacteria, our levels drop with age.  However, increased consumption of probiotics can assist with restoring these levels and supporting a healthy gut microbiome throughout life.

Fiber and probiotics are crucial to sustaining bifidobacteria levels and overall gut health

In looking for options to promote the restoration of healthy bifidobacteria levels, the UCLA School of Medicine researchers looked at xylooligosaccharide (XOS), a unique prebiotic fiber made from non-GMO corn cobs.  XOS is known for providing an ideal environment for healthy bacteria to grow and thrive naturally within the gastrointestinal tract.

The researchers found that XOS restored intestinal health by promoting bifidobacterial growth in just 14 days in some cases.  And, even better news, it did so without leading to the growth of any harmful bacteria.

Dietary fiber is the number one bifidobacterial food source, and the standard American diet is sorely lacking in fiber.  Getting enough fiber is crucial to gut microbiome health, but probiotics can also make a big difference.

Probiotics benefits can offset the decline in bifidobacteria levels and help to maintain gut microbiome balance as we age

There’s no doubt that Bifidobacteria organisms, in particular, are crucial for overall good health.  But, we must not forget that infants (on average) start out life with 60 percent bifidobacteria organisms in their digestive tract, and over time – the amount can decrease to as low as 5 to 10 percent in older age.  (Naturally, this is avoidable.)

The bottom line is that taking probiotics can help offset this decline and foster a healthy gut microbiome throughout your life.  Some of the best food sources of probiotics include: organic raw sauerkraut and miso.  But, naturally, a good quality probiotic supplement, may be necessary.

Bottom line, the benefits of probiotics include better cardiovascular health, emotional well-being, and a stronger immune system.  This is the big reason why we say, “A healthy gut equals a healthy life.”

Sources for this article include:

NIH.gov
LifeExtension.com
NIH.gov