Its purpose is to prevent the growth and development of pathogenic and harmful bacteria to our health; Also acting favorably in immunological and digestive pathology.
Probiotics do good. Something seems familiar to us from hearing it in advertisements or reading it on the packaging of curd. Now they are booming with a revival of fermented foods and preparations like kefir, kimchi or kombucha tea. New? They crossed the kitchen and are accompanied by antiage creams as well. They are the latest trend and we want to know everything about them.
What are probiotics?
Our body is composed of a normal microflora, or microbiota, which is a group of microorganisms that are typically located in the gut, but also occur in various systems. This microbiota is very important, but very sensitive to the type of diet, chronic stress, certain pathologies, and drug use. To avoid its imbalance and the resulting alteration of the microflora, probiotics are added non-pathogenic live microorganisms that, when ingested in sufficient quantities, have a beneficial effect on health.
Its purpose is to prevent the growth and development of pathogenic and harmful bacteria to our health; Also acting favorably in pathology Immunological and digestive problems such as constipation, infectious diarrhea and diarrhea associated with antibiotics.
What are its health benefits?
They facilitate digestion and absorption of nutrients, strengthen the immune system (i.e. protection) and have a beneficial effect on patients with lactose intolerance.
They play an important role in the prevention of colon cancer and reducing the symptoms of autism.
They act positively in patients with chronic intestinal diseases and cardiovascular pathology, and in the reduction of LDL or “bad” cholesterol.
They are believed to affect weight and type 2 diabetes by altering fasting blood glucose and hemoglobin A1C (a blood test often used to estimate the average glucose level over the previous 3 months).
What are they used for in cosmetics?
Now, the boom has reached cosmetics and both pro and prebiotics are used. While the former contain live microorganisms, prebiotics are food for the bacterial flora of the skin and, therefore, are essential for the regeneration of the skin and defense barrier, thus protecting against the invasion of pathogenic elements.
The solid point is that both have a lot to do with skin care and hence, Cosmetics that combine probiotics and prebiotics are extremely beneficial for the dermis as it balances its pH and regulates its defense mechanisms.
They are used for the treatment of acne, reduction of signs of aging, and for the production of substances such as collagen or hyaluronic acid. In addition, they improve the quality of tanned skin and activate the formation of melanin. The experts at Fine, a young company focused on the future of aesthetic medicine, point us to the main benefits of probiotics:
Rosacea Skin: The gut microbiome influences the inflammatory skin response, and there are associations with bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine and Helicobacter pylori infection. The contribution of probiotics that control Helicobacter and reduce inflammation proposes a major advance for the control of this condition.
Allergies and Eczema: Although atopic dermatitis is considered a skin disorder, the gut microbiome is also believed to play a role in the pathogenesis of the disease. Adult dermatitis and eczema may respond better to treatment when a diversity of gut bacteria is present and dysbiosis is eliminated.
Wrinkles and skin aging: The probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum improves skin hydration and has anti-photoaging effects. One scientific study tested a placebo for 12 weeks to determine whether a probiotic changed skin aging. Reduced transepidermal water loss was reflected with a significant reduction in wrinkle depth at 12 weeks, significantly improved skin luminosity and improved skin elasticity by 15% after 4 weeks and by more than 20% at 12 weeks. This confirms that Lactobacillus plantarum can be considered a nutraceutical cosmetic with relevant and visible effects in the short term.
In conclusion, experts point out Probiotics are not only a natural way to strengthen defenses against diseases as they improve immunity, digestion and respiratory function, but also have an effect on improving beauty and well-being, This is the reason why its consumption increased strongly in the post-pandemic period in which health care became a priority in various ways.
Eat probiotics
Through consuming fermented foods (we share the main products below) you can not only reap the benefits mentioned above, but also have a balanced diet. However, the key is not only to introduce them through food, but also In not killing them with the abuse of antibiotics and ultra-processed foods.
Miso: This oriental fermented is rich in probiotics. It is commonly used as a digestive regulator in soups, salads, vegetables and sauces. It has an anticancer effect.
Tart taste: It acts at the level of the digestive system and has a low glycemic index, which makes it beneficial for diabetics. In addition, it generates satiety.
Tempeh: It is a fermented grain rich in probiotics. Made from soybean, it is rich in protein. We can find it in roll form and it can be natural or smoked. It is a source of Vitamin B12 and can be used in stir-fry or in salads or bakes.
Kombucha Tea: Improves digestion, Regulates intestinal transit, Strengthens immune system, Anti-allergic, Alleviates symptoms of candidiasis, Regulates blood pressure and reduces inflammation of joints, especially arthritis in patients with It is contraindicated in pregnant and lactating women and patients with Candida problems.
Kimchi: An Asian form of sauerkraut, it is a very spicy and sour fermented cabbage that lowers blood pressure and boosts the immune system.
sour cabbage: Made from fermented cabbage, it acts on the immune and digestive systems. It is hypoallergenic and contains high amounts of vitamins A, B1, B2 and C and minerals such as iron, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium.
Kefir: It is a combination of goat milk and fermented grains, contains lactobacilli and bifidus bacteria and is rich in antioxidants. It has hypocholesterolemic, antiallergic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antifungal and antitumor effects. It is generally very important in stomach ulcers as it inhibits the proliferation of Helicobacter pylori.
Curd: Made from lactobacilli or acidophilus, it prevents constipation, diarrhea, lactose intolerance and even colon cancer. In addition, it reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes, colorectal cancer, prevents osteoporosis, strengthens the immune system, lowers blood pressure and has a cardioprotective effect. Goat’s milk and cheese are high in probiotics and have better digestibility and fewer allergens than cow’s milk.
Experts consulted: Dr. Vanessa Boragno, nutritionist; Dr. Florencia Leinado, Family Physician and Dr. María Rolandi Ortiz, Specialist Dermocosmetician, Surgeon, Director of RO Medical Art.
