Our intestinal tracts harbour trillions of bacteria. We feel healthy when “friendly” bacteria dominate.

Chronic use of antibiotics and gastric acid inhibitors, lifestyle, stress and a poor diet, (low in fibre and high in refined sugars and alcohol), may disrupt the positive balance of “friendly” bacteria. This may be one reason why an estimated 1 in 5 adults in the UK suffer from a gastrointestinal complaint at any one time.

Probiotic supplements such as TumBiotix can be effectively used to supplement “friendly” probiotic bacteria in the gut and restore a positive balance.

Pathogen Protection

Probiotic bacteria compete for space and nutrients with potentially pathogenic bacteria in the gut. They also produce substances such as lactic acid, hydrogen peroxide and antibacterial substances called “bacteriocins”, all of which prevent pathogenic bacteria and harmful microorganisms from establishing in the body.

Digestion

Some strains of probiotics secrete enzymes that aid digestion. For example many lactic acid probiotic bacteria breakdown the milk sugar lactose in the small intestine.

Short Chain Fatty Acid (SCFA) Production

SCFAs, such as lactic acid, are vital by-products of the fermentation of fibre by probiotic bacteria. SCFAs create an acidic environment in the intestine, helping to prevent pathogenic bacteria and harmful microorganisms from establishing in the gut.

Immune Enhancement

Probiotic supplementation has been found to enhance immunity, particularly in infants and the elderly, by stimulating the development of certain immune system components.

Food Allergy Control

The lining of the intestine by probiotic bacteria prevents the movement of toxic material including undigested food into the blood stream, thereby reducing the risk of an allergic reaction developing.

Maintenance and Regularity

As probiotic bacteria are required for the breakdown of fibre and the control of pathogenic bacteria, they help to maintain a healthy GI tract and optimal bowel regularity.