When we think of bacteria, we often picture them as villains—causing illness or indicating poor hygiene. However, this negative view is like calling a superhero a troublemaker! Many bacteria are our unsung heroes, working quietly to keep us healthy.
Imagine this: while probiotics are the live microorganisms themselves (think lactic acid bacteria — read more about them on our blog), postbiotics are the powerful substances these microorganisms leave behind after they’ve done their job.
Think of it as a natural cycle: just like trees transform the carbon dioxide we exhale into oxygen, postbiotics ensure that your body gets the benefits of this extraordinary process. Far from being “waste,” these are valuable byproducts that can give your health a serious boost!
Microbiome, microbes, micro-what?
The microbiome consists of all the microbes living in and on our bodies. Microbes are tiny organisms, too small to be seen without a microscope. Altogether, we carry about ten times more microbial cells than human cells, which weigh approximately 1.5 kg—about as much as our brain!
Each person has a unique combination of microbes, similar to the composition of a fingerprint (source: Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health). Bacteria and fungi are the most prevalent types of microbes in our bodies. A common group of bacteria is Lactobacilli or lactic acid bacteria (and for the biology enthusiasts out there, these bacteria belong to the phylum Firmicutes). Lactobacilli can thrive in challenging environments, such as low oxygen or high acidity. In our bodies, they are predominantly found in the intestines but are also present in smaller amounts on our skin, as well as in the respiratory and urinary tracts.
How do lactic acid bacteria contribute to our health?
Lactic acid bacteria aid digestion by breaking down complex carbohydrates, fibers, sugars, and proteins. These bacteria can even produce important vitamins, such as vitamin K and B vitamins. Additionally, lactic acid bacteria support gut health by helping Page 2 of 2
to maintain the integrity of the intestinal walls (epithelial barrier), which is crucial for a healthy digestive system.
Besides their digestive benefits, lactic acid bacteria play a vital role in our immune system. They help train our immune system, modulate inflammatory responses, and protect our health by competing with harmful pathogens for space and resources, thereby reducing the likelihood of infections.
Overall, lactic acid bacteria significantly contribute to our well-being by supporting digestion, producing vitamins, and enhancing immune function. So, rather than viewing them as villains, let’s appreciate and nurture our health-promoting bacteria!
What is your next step in taking care of your microbiome?
