The intestine is rich in bacteria and their presence is very important for our health and well being. Dr. Beatrice Salvioli, a gastroenterologist in Humanitas, spoke about this topic in an interview with Cuore e Denari on Radio24.
The bacteria that inhabit our intestines are numerous: the so-called microbiota has been the subject of many studies over the past few years. These bacteria have been found to be involved in various processes, such as immune defenses, intestinal well-being, skin health and even mental well-being.
Each person is born with its own genetic heritage of bacteria, which change over the course of life, for a number of reasons: from antibiotics that are taken, the type of diet that you follow, to the stress that can accumulate.
Warning signs
Some signs may indicate suffering of the intestinal flora, such as: abdominal swelling, alterations in the evacuation mode (increased constipation or diarrhea), fatigue, but also erythema and eczema, and the presence of depressed or anxious mood.
Bacteria and diet
Bacteria may also play an important role in patients who are constantly on a diet and do not lose weight, as bacteria may not transmit the signals needed to dispose of certain types of food.
Interesting studies have been conducted on how bacterial flora undergoes changes depending on the diet a person adopts. For example, it is sufficient to follow a vegetarian diet for a few days to observe changes in the bacterial flora.
We can say that bacteria are messengers of what we introduce with diet and what happens in our organism.
