The expression ‘health begins in the gut’ is very true. The gut, also known as the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, is responsible for transforming food into energy and nutrients necessary for every system in the body to function properly. An unhealthy gut can lead to more than just digestive issues, it can also contribute to compromised immune response, neurological disorders, psychiatric disorders, malnutrition, weight gain, and cardiovascular disease to name a few [1, 9, 10, 11, 12].
Unfortunately, stressors such as aging, environmental contaminants, diet, stress, and medication can destabilized a gut microbiome [1]. For example, the frequent use of antibiotics against harmful bacteria also decrease the number of good bacteria in the GI tract [3].
Even more, particular diets can also impact gut microbiome in a negative way. For instance, the frequent consumption of high saturated fat adversely affects gut microbiome by promoting the growth of harmful bacteria [13].
Fortunately, probiotics or beneficial live bacteria from food and supplements can help reestablish a healthy gut microbiome. Fermented food such as yogurt and kefir are a good source of beneficial bacteria [3].
For a standardized quantity and specific strains of probiotics, dietary supplements are a good option. Gut bacteria also thrives on prebiotics such as fiber, so regularly consuming probiotics with prebiotics can support a healthy gut [4].
Gives Wholesome Probiotics is optimized with a prebiotic fiber known as NutraFlora® FOS (fructo-oligosaccharides). Fructo-oligosaccharides are present in plant-based food such as onion, asparagus root, tubers of Jerusalem, artichoke, and wheat, and it ranks among the top prebiotics used in food and supplements. In human trials, it has shown to favor the growth of good gut bacteria such as bifidobacterium [7,8]. Additionally, it can also decrease the production of harmful intestinal putrefactive substances and alleviate constipation [8].
The Genus Bifidobacterium
Many species ofBifidobacterium are classified as probiotic due to their health-promoting properties.Bifidobacteria are a vital component of human and animal gut microbiome. In fact, they are among the first microorganisms that colonize the GI tract in newborns, and play a vital role in growth and maturation. Exhibiting health benefits,Bifidobacteria are common bioactive ingredients in functional food mainly dairy products, dietary supplements, and other pharmaceuticals [7,8].
A review of the impact ofBifidobacteria on health and disease is positive. They have been shown to treat diarrhea and other gastrointestinal infections, improve lactose metabolism, inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, and necrotizing enterocolitis. Furthermore,Bifidobacteriahave demonstrated anticarcinogenic and antimutagenic capabilities, as well as promoting healthy cholesterol levels, and immune response [7,16].
The Genus Lactobacillus
Microorganisms belonging to the genusLactobacillus are common in dairy products, fermented meat, sourdough,vegetables, fruits, and fermented beverages [6]. In humans and animals, various species ofLactobacillusare part of the microbiome that naturally exist in the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and genital tracts [6].Lactobacillusbacteria have a long history in dairy production for their fermentative property and probiotic effects.
Lactobacilli are generally recognized as safe (GRAS status) [7,15], and there are a number of literature documenting their health benefits [eg.2,3,13]. For Instance,Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus acidophilusare known for promoting normal digestive functioning, controlling gastrointestinal infections, improving gastrointestinal disorders, improving cholesterol levels, and stimulating healthy immune response [16].
Streptococcus thermophilus
Streptococcus thermophilusis an important bacteria in dairy manufacturing, particularly in yogurt production. It is classified as a probiotic for having beneficial properties, particularly in alleviating gastrointestinal disorders including symptoms of lactose intolerance [6].
Bacillus coagulans
Bacillus coagulans is widely utilized in dietary supplements and a number of pharmaceutical drugs. It has shown success in improving intestinal disorders, and in some instances demonstrated better probiotic effects compared toBifidobacteriumandLactobacillus.It also demonstrates an ability to balance gut microbiome, stimulate immune response, treat viral infections, and reduce inflammation [17,18]. Bacillus coagulanshas been referred to as ‘the king of probiotics’ because it is resistant to antibiotics and antiseptics, and it has the ability to maintain viability during manufacturing processes and journey down the gastrointestinal tract (i.e. acid and bile resistant) [18].
We strive to provide our customers with safe and all-natural formulas. Our manufacturing facility is FDA registered, and all our supplements are in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). All our products also carry a certificate of analysis from an independent third-party lab indicating that they are safe. If you wish to review these certificate, please contact us. We stand behind our product and assure their quality; however, it is always advisable to consult your healthcare professional before taking dietary supplements especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions, pregnant, or lactating.