Probiotics – Supporting Gut Microbiota Balance and Digestive Health

<p><meta charset="UTF-8">A healthy gut microbiota is essential for the proper functioning of the body, and its imbalance may lead to various health issues. PURO Biotic is a combination of 7 probiotic bacterial strains developed based on scientific research and clinical practice. PURO Biotic contains strains such as: Bifidobacterium bifidum BBi32, Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum BL21, Lactobacillus acidophilus LA85, Lacticaseibacillus casei LC89, Lactobacillus helveticus LH76, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus LRa05, and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Lp90. All strains have numerous scientific publications documenting their properties. In addition to carefully selected strains with a broad spectrum of activity, it is also important to highlight the very high dose per serving: the product provides 150 billion CFU. This matters because it is estimated that the intestines are home to 10–100 trillion cells, which constitute approx. 55% of the dry mass of intestinal contents. A high single dose increases the effectiveness of colonization and survival of the bacteria that should be there.<br></p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span>Clinical effects of PURO Biotic probiotics</span></h2> <p dir="ltr"><span>The main purpose of probiotics is to support gut microbiota balance and improve digestive tract function. The strains included in PURO Biotic, in appropriate proportions, may primarily help with:</span></p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span>relieving constipation</span></p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span>reducing the frequency and severity of diarrhea</span></p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span>reducing the severity of heartburn and belching</span></p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span>strengthening the intestinal barrier</span></p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span>reducing inflammation</span></p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span>increasing the synthesis of nutrients</span></p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span>supporting immunity.</span><span><br><br></span></p> </li> </ul> <h2 dir="ltr"><span>What is dysbiosis and how does it develop?</span></h2> <p dir="ltr"><span>In a healthy gut, there is a state of relative balance, which means that about 90% of the gut microbiota consists of beneficial bacteria, while the remaining 10% are harmful microorganisms. Certain external factors such as stress, an unhealthy diet, or medications can cause the growth of harmful bacteria, and this condition is called dysbiosis. Dysbiosis may lead to a number of health consequences.</span><span><br><br></span></p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span>The impact of stress on the gut microbiota</span></h2> <p dir="ltr"><span>Taking care of gut flora is especially important for people who live and work under high emotional and physical strain. Chronic stress increases cortisol levels, which leads to a reduction in beneficial bacteria (e.g., Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium) while also weakening the intestinal barrier, resulting in increased intestinal permeability (known as leaky gut syndrome). Disruption of microbiota balance may cause digestive problems, reduced immunity, and inflammation in the body. In turn, a compromised intestinal barrier increases exposure to harmful bacteria and toxins, which may further raise the risk of allergies and weaken immune function. The gut and the brain communicate via the gut–brain axis, and cortisol plays a very important role in this communication, affecting brain function, mood, regulation of the circadian rhythm, and sleep problems.</span><span><br><br></span></p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span>The importance of diet in maintaining microbiome balance</span></h2> <p dir="ltr"><span>Gut microbiota balance can also be disrupted by other factors, among which diet is one of the most important. In particular, a diet low in dietary fiber—which is a natural “fuel” for gut bacteria—may impair their proper function. A major threat to the microbiome is excessive consumption of processed foods as well as food additives such as preservatives, artificial sweeteners, and emulsifiers, which may damage beneficial gut bacteria. Other diet-related factors include high intake of sugars and saturated fats, which promote the growth of harmful bacteria and may contribute to intestinal inflammation.</span><span><br><br></span></p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span>The impact of medications on the gut bacterial flora</span></h2> <p dir="ltr"><span>Among non-dietary factors that harm beneficial gut bacteria, antibiotics and certain medications should be highlighted. Antibiotics kill not only harmful bacteria but also the beneficial ones, which may lead to dysbiosis—an abnormal balance of different gut bacterial strains. People who have completed an antibiotic course often require rebuilding of the natural gut microbiota with probiotic bacteria. Other medications that may affect the microbiome include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen. Drugs from this group can damage the intestinal lining, leading to increased permeability. Another commonly used group of medications that not only increases the body’s demand for magnesium but also negatively affects the microbiome are proton pump inhibitors, used to treat heartburn. Their use changes stomach pH, which affects the composition of the microbiota and often leads to SIBO. A similar situation where probiotic support may be needed applies to patients with chronic inflammatory diseases, especially if they have undergone long-term therapy with immunosuppressive or anti-inflammatory drugs. </span><a href="https://puromedica.com/pl-pl/collections/probiotyki"><span>Probiotics</span></a><span> support the restoration of a healthy gut microbiota, especially after antibiotic use. Thanks to their effects, the risk of pathogenic microorganism overgrowth is reduced, which may otherwise cause infections and digestive disturbances.</span><span><br><br></span></p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span>Preventive use of probiotics</span></h2> <p dir="ltr"><span>Probiotics can be used preventively to support gut function and the body’s immune defenses. A sudden change in diet or water, which typically happens during travel—especially to exotic destinations—may require support with PURO Biotic. Traveler’s diarrhea, sometimes referred to as the “pharaoh’s curse,” may result from exposure to different bacterial strains present on fruits and vegetables. This is because the bacterial flora of food varies by region, and the digestive system is not accustomed to new microorganisms, which can trigger such reactions.</span><span><br><br></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><span>Given the close relationship between gut bacterial flora and the condition of the skin and mucous membranes (e.g., of the respiratory tract or reproductive organs), probiotic bacteria may help people with skin-related problems. It is also worth mentioning that restoring microbiome balance increases mineral absorption and supports the production of certain vitamins.</span><span><br><br></span></p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span>The gut and immune function</span></h2> <p dir="ltr"><span>About 70–80% of immune system cells are located in the intestines, which is why gut microbiota balance is crucial for immune health. Healthy intestines modulate immune response, strengthen the intestinal barrier, stimulate antibody production, and help fight infections. Probiotic strains that are particularly important for immunity include: Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus casei, and Lactobacillus plantarum. Probiotic bacteria also play a key role in the development of the fetal immune system, which is why they should be an important element of dietary supplementation for pregnant women.</span><span><br><br></span></p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span>Unique properties of PURO Biotic strains</span></h2> <p dir="ltr"><span>Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, provide health benefits to the host, most often related to gut and immune health. Despite shared fundamental mechanisms of probiotic action, their benefits depend on the specific strain and dose.</span></p> <p dir="ltr"><span>It is worth emphasizing that Bifidobacterium longum, a component of PURO Biotic, has demonstrated effects that enhance the body’s antioxidant defenses and support liver health. This strain is also involved in the production of short-chain fatty acids and polysaccharides, which may influence immunity, skin condition, and brain function.</span><span><br><br></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><span>Bifidobacterium bifidum is a member of the gut microbiota that helps digest food, supports nutrient absorption, and combats “harmful” organisms in the intestines that may cause disease.</span><span><br><br></span></p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span>Properties of selected Lactobacillus strains</span></h2> <p dir="ltr"><span>Scientific studies show that Lactobacillus acidophilus may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, has strong anti-inflammatory effects, improves lactose digestion, and alleviates symptoms associated with lactose intolerance. The role of L. acidophilus has also been demonstrated in regulating immune response and reducing oxidative stress.</span></p> <p dir="ltr"><span>Results from numerous publications evaluating the effects of Lacticaseibacillus casei on the human body highlight many health benefits, particularly in the areas of mental health, gastrointestinal protection, metabolic health, immune modulation, and healthy aging.</span></p> <p dir="ltr"><span>Scientific research also suggests that Lactobacillus helveticus exhibits specific enzymatic activity and may therefore indirectly support human health by increasing nutrient bioavailability, eliminating allergens and other undesirable food components, and producing bioactive peptides through the digestion of dietary proteins.<br><br></span><span></span><span></span></p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span>Comprehensive support for gut, liver, and metabolic health</span></h2> <p dir="ltr"><span>Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, an important component of PURO Biotic, has the ability to improve lipid metabolism, especially in people on a high-fat diet. It supports gut “health” and influences immune system activity.</span></p> <p dir="ltr"><span>Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, which is also present in PURO Biotic, shows beneficial effects on liver function. In addition, it helps maintain normal blood glucose levels and supports maintaining a healthy body weight. <br><br></span><em></em></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>References:</em></p> <ol> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1" style="font-style: italic;"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>Turroni F, Duranti S, Milani C, Lugli GA, van Sinderen D, Ventura M. Bifidobacterium bifidum: A Key Member of the Early Human Gut Microbiota. Microorganisms. 2019 Nov 9;7(11):544. doi: 10.3390/microorganisms7110544. PMID: 31717486; PMCID: PMC6920858.</em></p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1" style="font-style: italic;"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>Mills S, Yang B, Smith GJ, Stanton C, Ross RP. Efficacy of Bifidobacterium longum alone or in multi-strain probiotic formulations during early life and beyond. Gut Microbes. 2023 Jan-Dec;15(1):2186098. doi: 10.1080/19490976.2023.2186098. PMID: 36896934; PMCID: PMC10012958.</em></p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1" style="font-style: italic;"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>Gao H, Li X, Chen X, Hai D, Wei C, Zhang L, Li P. The Functional Roles of Lactobacillus acidophilus in Different Physiological and Pathological Processes. J Microbiol Biotechnol. 2022 Oct 28;32(10):1226-1233. doi: 10.4014/jmb.2205.05041. Epub 2022 Aug 30. PMID: 36196014; PMCID: PMC9668099.</em></p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1" style="font-style: italic;"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>Hill D, Sugrue I, Tobin C, Hill C, Stanton C, Ross RP. The Lactobacillus casei Group: History and Health Related Applications. Front Microbiol. 2018 Sep 10;9:2107. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.02107. PMID: 30298055; PMCID: PMC6160870.</em></p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1" style="font-style: italic;"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>Taverniti V, Guglielmetti S. Health-Promoting Properties of Lactobacillus helveticus. Front Microbiol. 2012 Nov 19;3:392. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2012.00392. PMID: 23181058; PMCID: PMC3500876.</em></p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1" style="font-style: italic;"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>Hawrelak JA, Whitten DL, Myers SP. Is Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG effective in preventing the onset of antibiotic-associated diarrhoea: a systematic review. Digestion. 2005;72(1):51-6. doi: 10.1159/000087637. Epub 2005 Aug 18. PMID: 16113542.</em></p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1" style="font-style: italic;"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>Li CP, Chen CC, Hsiao Y, Kao CH, Chen CC, Yang HJ, Tsai RY. The Role of Lactobacillus plantarum in Reducing Obesity and Inflammation: A Meta-Analysis. Int J Mol Sci. 2024 Jul 11;25(14):7608. doi: 10.3390/ijms25147608. PMID: 39062848; PMCID: PMC11276845.</em></p> </li> </ol> <p> </p>