The bacteria in the human gut, the microbiome, have been the focus of intense study over the past decade. We inherit our microbiome when we are born and it further develops in early childhood. Our gut community remains relatively stable over time; however, it can shift depending on age, location, diet, and stress levels.
There are trillions of bacterial cells in the human gut and they all work together in our system. A healthy gut microbiome is essential for digestion, metabolism, and immune system function. An imbalance of the microbiome, a condition known as dysbiosis, is linked to many gut conditions ranging from the occasional discomfort of irregularity to severe conditions like inflammatory bowel disease. Our gut bacteria have even been shown to impact drug absorption and effectiveness. Recently, a link between the gut microbiome and the brain has been established. Research into this so-called “gut-brain axis” has shown that gut dysbiosis can aggravate neurological conditions like depression and autism.
Probiotics have been shown to influence the microbiome to promote gut function and regularity by increasing the “good bacteria” in the system. There are many forms of probiotics on the market today including fermented beverages (like yogurt and kombucha), supplements, and snack foods. Bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are currently at the top of the probiotic market. While these bacteria are required for fermentation, they have no dormant state and are easily killed by stomach acid after consumption. As a consequence, these probiotics only provide passive, indirect benefits to the consumer.
NCH Life Sciences’ patent-pending ACTPRO™ probiotics contain Bacillus bacteria. Bacillus species have the unique ability to convert into a stable, dormant state called a spore. Spores are ideal for use in probiotics because they survive harsh conditions like the low pH of stomach acid. In order for spores to be beneficial as probiotics, however, they must first “wake up” out of their dormant state after they pass out of the stomach and into the intestine. ACTPRO technology is revolutionizing the probiotics industry by inducing the activation and growth of bacteria in the small intestine where most nutrient absorption occurs. Our probiotics are able to deliver unparalleled digestive and immune benefits to improve overall health. With ACTPRO, the future of probiotics is now! Want to know more? or contact us at LifeSciences@nch.com .