There is still a lot we do not know about our microbiome – scientists at the microbiome research centre in Cambridge University are discovering new strains every week. We are beginning to find out why the bacterial signature changes under different circumstances, how they effect disease risk and how they influence the response to treatments. Unhealthy bacteria tend to dominate more as people get older.
Our bodies, especially the gut have trillions of healthy probiotic bacteria, particularly in our gut, on our skin, in the lining of the airways. They are vital for healthy digestion, immunity and regulation of inflammation. Lifestyle factors such as lack of exercise, being overweight, eating excess sugar, alcohol and meat can cause overgrowth of the more unhealthy strains. Other factors such as viral illnesses, antibiotics, chemotherapy, radiotherapy or even simply travelling abroad, can upset the balance between these friendly bacteria and harmful bacteria.
Abnormal gut bacterial growth can lead to bloating, wind, colicky pains and diarrhoea, as well as general symptoms such as fatigue, and lack of motivation. There are an increasing number of chronic conditions which are now linked to abnormal bacterial flora such as arthritis, dementia, high cholesterol and osteoporosis.. There is now increasing evidence that abnormal flora in our lungs as well as gut could increase the risk of viral infections and allergies. The massive UK Kings app study reported in April 2021 that people who took probiotics and vitamin D had a lower risk of covid-19. Trials are ongoing across the world looking at the role of probiotics to reduce spread of covid among household contacts (BMJ British Medical Journal)
In situations where the natural balance between good and bad bacteria has been upset, a healthy probiotic supplement can help to restore this balance and is recommended in combination with healthy dietary changes.
