Here are some scientific discoveries about bacteria in our gut.
< p> Intestinal flora — this is what experts call the set of bacteria that live in our intestines, consists of about 100 billion that live in the colon. They develop from birth. Usually harmless and maintain balance. However, they can cause problems when the balance is lost and undergo some changes, prompting them to multiply or disappear. carries about 40 trillion bacterial cells, while our body is made up of only 30 trillion other cell types.
The role bacteria play in the human body
Gut bacteria make a significant contribution to human health. They have many functions:
- stimulate the production of vitamins such as vitamin B, complex K and various amino acids;
- capture essential minerals such as magnesium and iron;
- help our body defend itself against viruses and other dangerous bacteria by «teaching» gut bacteria to determine which strains are natural for the body and which are invaders;
- metabolize certain carbohydrates, making them easily digestible for humans. In addition, they ferment substances that cannot be absorbed and coordinate the correct intestinal transit;
- they are also associated with a person's lifespan.
This is how intestinal bacteria affect our waist circumference < p> The main task of bacteria is to protect human health. However, being overweight has many negative consequences.
Gut bacteria are responsible for extracting energy from food. According to research, the ability to absorb nutrients can vary as the composition of the intestinal flora grows differently for each of us.
Research shows that the size of your waist is related to the composition of the intestinal bacteria.
Other a study was conducted to decipher the relationship between different gut microbiota in humans, obesity, and which agents affect the composition of bacteria.
Scientists compared the fecal composition of 393 pairs of twins to determine the role of genetics in this matter. They used this type of sample because the feces contain cells that expose the gut microbiota.
So, doctors came to the conclusion that genes affect only 1/5 of intestinal transit, while environmental causes are responsible for 68% of changes in the ecosystem of bacteria.
These analyzes also showed that the intestinal flora is involved in the process fat accumulation in the body, so a more efficient type of gut microbiota that better absorbs nutrients can also cause weight gain.
In addition, it has been found that a diet high in fat can alter the microbiome and make it more susceptible to developing obesity. These bacteria also have an effect on altering triglyceride levels and & nbsp; altering cholesterol levels.
However, while high body fat is a major risk factor for heart problems, another study suggested there is a stronger link between the intestinal flora and the behavior of the cardiovascular system.
Although these are only initial studies, doctors have also found that conditions such as hypertension may be associated with low diversity and low numbers of bacterial groupings. They tested this by transplanting bacteria from people with the condition to healthy people who have high blood pressure.
Intestinal flora has also been linked to the growth of & nbsp; atherosclerotic plaques, & nbsp; blocking arteries in a process known as atherosclerosis, promoting the growth and rupture of these plaques. & nbsp;
How to prevent these health problems
Doctors recommend leading a healthy lifestyle with an emphasis on healthy eating. Try:
- Cut back on sugar and fat by avoiding processed foods as they tend to grow harmful bacteria colonies. Instead, opt for fruits and vegetables (5 servings per day) and fiber-rich foods as they contain complex carbohydrates that promote the growth of beneficial bacteria;
- Drink plenty of water;
- eat & nbsp; small meals several times a day. The intestines are cleaned about every two hours and it is best not to overwork it;
- take prebiotics. Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut and other fermented foods are on this list;
The consequences of an imbalance in the intestinal flora in the human body are still to be studied and many questions must be answered. The good news is that, unlike age and genetics, the risk factors associated with gut bacteria can be changed.