The Probiotic Advantage: Supporting Gut Health on Every Level

The Probiotic Advantage: Supporting Gut Health on Every Level

The word "probiotic" means "for life," hinting at its vital role in our well-being. Microflora are tiny organisms that thrive in environments like the human body. Probiotic bacteria naturally inhabit our bodies and skin, working to support the health and vitality of our intestinal flora—better known as the "gut microbiome."

There are 8 primary roles of a probiotic or microflora:

·       The 1st and primary role of probiotics is to help protect against pathogenic organisms and infections, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli).

·       The 2nd role is to support our immune system, including resistance to allergies and viruses. Probiotics do this on 3 levels. At the first level, if a pathogen enters the digestive tract, good bacteria neutralize it. If that fails, level 2 keeps pathogens out of the bloodstream by moving toward the digestive tract lining. If the pathogen enters the bloodstream, level 3 means good bacteria produce a substance to neutralize it before it circulates. This prevents health problems. Without enough beneficial bacteria, any of these 3 layers can fail, weakening our immune system.

·       The 3rd role of probiotics is to help maintain intestinal barrier function. This helps control food allergies and abnormal immune responses. Increased intestinal permeability, or “leaky gut,” happens when the intestines let harmful organisms pass into the bloodstream. If a pathogen survives the stomach and enters the small intestine without enough microflora, it can reach the bloodstream. Here, our third line of defense must neutralize it to prevent health issues. Probiotics help keep our entire intestinal lining intact.

·       The 4th role of probiotics is to support a healthy inflammatory response. By boosting anti-inflammatory proteins called cytokines—molecules that help regulate your immune system and put out the fire of inflammation—they help your body respond in a more balanced way. Conditions like cardiovascular disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, and arthritis often start or get worse because of long-term inflammation. Even considering your epigenetics (how your environment shapes gene activity), a clean diet, supplements, and friendly bacteria can all team up to help keep inflammation under control and support your gut health.

·       The 5th role of probiotics is to help with detoxification. Some probiotics bind to heavy metals in the gut, such as mercury, lead, cadmium, and arsenic. These metals move from the liver to the gallbladder, and then to the gut. Good bacteria and fiber surround the metals, then transport them to the colon for elimination. Probiotics also help break down environmental residues, such as glyphosate, found on food. Colon hydrotherapy can help speed the elimination of heavy metals from the colon.

·       The 6th role of the probiotic is to produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which support colon health. When a probiotic consumes a prebiotic or soluble fiber, it produces a byproduct: a short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) and butyrate. Cells use butyrate to make new cells. You shed and rebuild the cells of the digestive tract every 3-5 days. If shedding occurs but food isn't available to support new cells, it can lead to leaky gut and gut inflammation. Valerate and propionate have also been added to the Vital Pro Naturals because they help manage hormones and cholesterol. When there is excess estrogen or cholesterol in the liver, it flows to the gallbladder and then into the gut. High levels of probiotics, valerate, propionate, and fiber help estrogen and cholesterol leave the body through bowel movements. Colon hydrotherapy helps people move excess bowel movements to cleanse the body. If you don’t remove excess estrogen or cholesterol, they return to the liver and recirculate. Estrogen dominance is more prevalent in women in their 40’s, causing various symptoms. If your body can’t absorb excess cholesterol through fiber and bacteria in the gut, it returns to the liver. You may then be diagnosed with high cholesterol, and your doctor may prescribe statin drugs. With fiber, probiotics, and a healthy diet, cholesterol can be managed with the appropriate program.

·       The 7th role of probiotics is to support digestion with nutrients. Gut bacteria can produce digestive enzymes like proteases, amylases, and lipases. Still, you may need enzyme supplements if you have digestive issues. For example, a weak pancreas may not produce enough enzymes. Also, if the liver is too clogged, bile secretion to aid fat and protein breakdown may be low.

·       The 8th role of the probiotic is to support the manufacture of two important vitamins: Vitamin B (a group of eight water-soluble vitamins that help convert food into energy and support nerve health) and Vitamin K (which is necessary for proper blood clotting). B vitamins aid nerve function, assist with peristalsis (the wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract), and promote healthier skin, muscle tone, and regularity. These vitamins also help break down foods such as protein, starches, and fats, thereby improving nutrient absorption. They also help reduce gas, bloating, and symptoms of lactose intolerance.

Take a probiotic daily with your vitamins, especially during colon hydrotherapy. Atlanta Colonic & Massage Spa carries Vital Pro Naturals, a professional-grade probiotic. These help populate the gut with essential bacteria and support a strong immune system. Call or visit the spa to purchase a 30-day supply. For over 16 years, Atlanta Colonic & Massage Spa has served Atlanta and nearby areas with a tranquil environment and health-supporting services.