2023-09-22 08:46:34
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Intestinal microbiota, the secrets of a symbiosis
The microbiota is a whole world. But among the different colonies of bacteria that populate it, which are our enemies, our friends? Why do we need to balance them, and how to navigate the supply of prebiotics, cobiotics, probiotics, etc.? Journey to the heart of an ecosystem that never ceases to amaze us.
The microbiota refers to all the microorganisms present in the human body, mainly bacteria but also yeasts (microfungi) and viruses, which colonize mucous membranes and barriers. The intestinal microbiota is the best known because it is the most populated, but the vagina, skin and respiratory tract are not left out. This colonization is not anarchic, there are rules. On the one hand, each microorganism occupies a niche: the same species will not be found throughout the body. On the other hand, our cells and bacteria have signed a contract to live together, a symbiosis where everyone gives and receives. Research has shown that all microbiota act in a network, the imbalance of one impacts the others.
Immunity, digestion, protection: the role of the intestinal microbiota
Among the major functions of the intestinal microbiota, we note:
- the contribution to the digestion and energy metabolism
- the vitamin synthesisfatty acids and bile acids
- a protection directly once morest the proliferation of microbes opportunists
- the regulation of the immune system
- the dialogue with the nervous system and with most organs.
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The intestinal microbiota changes with age for a healthier old age
Germs everywhere, and that’s normal
While we thought the rest of the organism was sterile, we continue to find symbiotic bacteria there. The placenta has its microbiota, which produces nutrients useful for the development of the fetus. The recent discovery of a microbiota in the uterusthe contours of which remain unclear, calls into question the theory that has prevailed until now, namely that the child’s microbiota is established only at birth, in contact with the mother’s vaginal and fecal flora. There are even symbiotic bacteria in the breast. It was while studying breast cancer that we discovered bacteria whose presence seemed completely normal. The Pasteurian vision of a human being devoid of all germs seems definitively behind us.
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Chronic fatigue, the intestinal track
Symbiosis is the rule
In nature you will not find animals or plants free from microorganisms, because symbiosis is the rule and not the exception. Today we speak of a holobiont to designate the entire host and all the microorganisms that live there. The holobiont combines the abilities and resources of the host and its passengers. It is made up of billions of microorganisms that influence the host, digestion, functioning of the immune system, genetic expression and even behavior. To the point that we can legitimately wonder where exactly the border between them and us is. And what can we do when things go wrong? Are the prevention and treatment tools offered to us reliable?
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Should we “rewild” our microbiota?
Five ways to maintain a balanced microbiota
When bacterial populations are balanced in number and distribution, we speak of eubiosis. In infants, breastfeeding provides this balance.
In adults, several factors promote this state:
- A varied diet containing sufficient fiber and polyphenols, few sweets and without pesticides and additives
- Taking antibiotics and anti-inflammatories limited to strictly necessary cases
- Take the time to eat and chew well
- Practice a physical activity regular
- Learn to manage your stress and emotions.
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