NeAr Science Magazine

By Aifric Mangan

Our gut is made up of trillions of microorganisms that are hugely influential to our  health. But with prebiotic drinks lining the shelves of our favourite stores and ‘gut friendly diets’ being all the rage, it’s difficult to distinguish truth from trend. Do these  supplements really work and what can we do to maintain a healthy gut environment?  In this article, we take a closer look at the gut microbiome.

The gut microbiome is composed of hundreds of species of fungi, viruses and bacteria.  This may seem strange, but is absolutely normal and essential to our health. There are trillions of microorganisms in the gut, both ‘good’ and ‘bad’ microbes. Disease-causing microorganisms can be harmful, but maintaining a large  range of the ‘good’ microbes can be central to reducing the risk of diabetes, inflammatory  bowel disease, cardiovascular disease, and some cancers.  

This might be a lot to digest, (no pun intended) but bear with me. Bad bacteria- we  don’t want, good bacteria- are good for us and we want many different types. Thankfully, we can do many things to support a happy gut, which is great for our health.  We’ve all heard of the ‘Mediterranean Diet’ and its astonishing health benefits.  But why do provisions of fresh vegetables and beans, whole-grains and cheese have  us all itching to trade in sliced pans of bread and Kerrygold butter for  what might be considered ‘exotic’ to some in Ireland? Firstly, it provides relief from the  harsh and processed ‘Western Diet’ that can deplete diversity of gut microbiota.  Secondly, this diet promotes diversity in the digestive system by supplying our gut with  fibre and prebiotics, allowing it to thrive. 

Prebiotics are dietary fibres that nourish microorganisms. Probiotics, on the other  hand, are live microbes that stimulate digestion and help control the growth of harmful  microorganisms. Probiotics join select populations already in your body. Fermented  products are a great source of natural probiotics. For example, yoghurts, kefir,  kombucha and kimchi may improve diversity in the gut.  

So, do prebiotic supplements work? Basically, we don’t really know yet. Some evidence suggests probiotics and prebiotics may be helpful, however there is no proof  that supports that these benefits are universal, or that these products are safe for everyone.  Medical journals recommend sticking to natural sources of probiotics or fibre rather  than gravitating to prebiotic drinks or foods heavily marketed as  magical ‘superfoods’.

On the other hand, we can still make gut conscious choices, by having a diet rich in fibre and fermented products, while focusing on diversity in food choices. This can all help maintain a healthy, happy and nourished microbiome.