Probiotics, as active microorganisms beneficial to the human body, play an important role in maintaining health. The following is a detailed introduction to probiotics in terms of definition, function, disease association, product form and precautions:
1. Definition and Classification
Definition: Probiotics are a group of active microorganisms that colonize the human intestinal tract, reproductive system and other parts of the human body, and promote nutrient absorption and maintain intestinal health by regulating the immune function of mucous membranes and systems, and improving the balance of intestinal flora.
Common types:
Lactobacillus: such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus casei, etc. It can ferment lactose to produce lactic acid, reduce intestinal pH and inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria.
Bifidobacteria: such as Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidobacterium infantis, etc., which can enhance intestinal immune function and promote nutrient absorption.
Yeasts: such as Saccharomyces boulardii, which can improve the intestinal environment through fermentation.
Bacillus species: such as Bacillus subtilis, which helps food digestion and reduces digestive disorders.
2. Biological functions
Promote digestion and absorption: Synthesize digestive enzymes, participate in the digestion of intestinal nutrients, increase the surface area of the small intestine and promote absorption.
Enhance immunity: activate the immune system, enhance the activity of intrinsic immune cells and natural killer cells, stimulate antibody secretion.
Maintaining the balance of flora: regulating the structure of intestinal flora, inhibiting the reproduction of harmful bacteria and protecting the intestinal mucosal barrier.
Other functions: improve meat quality, increase antioxidant level, inhibit intestinal inflammation, participate in water circulation, etc.
3. Related diseases and applications
Applicable diseases:
Intestinal diseases: chronic diarrhea, intestinal-derived endotoxemia, colorectal cancer, etc. Probiotics can improve the dysbiosis and reduce the endotoxin level.
Metabolic syndrome: alleviate obesity and insulin resistance by regulating intestinal flora.
Immune-related diseases: such as allergic diseases, probiotics can regulate immune response and inhibit allergic reactions.
Hepatobiliary diseases: cirrhosis, hepatitis, etc. Probiotics can reduce harmful intestinal bacteria and lower blood ammonia levels.