A number of studies have suggested that certain profiles of gut microorganisms may have a beneficial effect on health and that certain detrimental gut microorganisms may be associated with ill health. The association between the gut microbiota profile and the diet is fairly well established and this may be one way that poor quality diets cause certain diseases. Supplements of beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus acidophilus are available and studies suggest that taking supplements such as this following antibiotic use may allow rapid recolonisation of the friendly gut bacteria which may help establish health much more quickly following antibiotic use. However, the benefits of probiotic supplements in healthy individuals already eating a healthy diet is likely to be less pronounced as these individuals will already have favourable profiles of gut microorganisms. Therefore, recommendations are to eat high fibre, high plant food diets in order to optimise microbial populations for healthy individuals.
Eat Well, Stay Healthy, Protect Yourself
RdB
