Next Generation Probiotics and the Promise of Targeted Microbiome Support

In the Beginning – Early formulations of probiotics contained friendly microbes that offered general microbiome support for improved gut health including better digestion and elimination. These commonly included lactic acid producing strains of Bifidobacterium or Lactobacillus as well as the yeast Saccharomyces boulardii without specific attention to individual strain strengths and the level of synergies between them. Based on deeper insights from ongoing research, we now understand that different probiotic strains perform different functions in the management of health and specific disease (Visconti, A. et al, 2019). This information can help inform focused formulations to support individual needs.

Investigators are also exploring unique bacterial species including Christensenella minuta, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, Anaerobutyricum soehngenii and Akkermansia muciniphila as well as active metabolic byproducts of various probiotics for targeted applications (so-called post-biotic products like short chain fatty acids, for example). Unfortunately, however, to date the challenges associated with extremely limited human clinical study data and the manufacturing difficulties posed by strictly anaerobic organisms has hampered the potential clinical utility of these “next generation” probiotics. But manufacturers dedicated to evidence-based probiotic formulation have already taken the next steps toward a personalized approach to microbiome support. You can take advantage of these high performance, precision probiotics by evaluating brands with the following 3 characteristics in mind:

1. Informed Strain Selection

When selecting the best probiotic for specific health conditions or your stage of life, the first step is to identify what microbe-modulated function you wish to support, meaning: what symptoms you are trying to address or prevent. In a review published in the journal Nutrients, the authors emphasize the importance of this process in formulation development: “It is important to select probiotics strains that can influence the disturbed physiological processes in the health condition that is targeted by the respective probiotic product” (Grumet, L., et al 2020).

For example, many mental health symptoms including depression, anxiety, and rumination are due, at least in part, to system-wide inflammation caused by damage to the cells of the intestinal wall. Unchecked, the tight junctions that normally separate the contents of the gut from general circulation are impaired leading to “leaky gut.” As a result, microbes and toxins that enter the bloodstream can cause inflammation of, and damage to, the blood brain barrier. In such cases, the best results are likely to come from a probiotic that contains strains of bacteria that are anti-inflammatory, repair intestinal wall tight junctions, and restore the integrity of the blood brain barrier.

Quality manufacturers interested in developing indication-targeted formulations will examine the unique healing effects of individual probiotic strains – often publishing the results. For example, strains including Lactobacillus casei W56, Lactococcus lactis W19, Lactobacillus acidophilus W22, and Bifidobacterium lactis W52, are directly associated with improved gut barrier function, healing of intestinal wall tight junctions, and the reduction of related mood disorders (Moser, A.M., et al, 2019). While in another study, the same formulation also demonstrated the ability to shift (fMRI) brain activity from the default mode network (DMN), associated with inward analysis and rumination, to the salience network (SN), associated with increased perception, attention, and cognition (Bagga, D., et al, 2019).

Watch My Video Case Study using a Targeted Psychobiotic

2. Demonstrated Strain Synergies

While single probiotic strains have been shown to be beneficial to health, multi-strain probiotics have the potential to be significantly more effective due to multi-microbe synergies and additive functional activity (Kwoji, I.D., et al, 2021). But it is important to realize that not all strains collaborate. Some healthful strains will actually compete with each other resulting in changes in the metabolic activity of the probiotics, which is certainly not what you want. Therefore, the most reliable method of demonstrating strain synergies is through human clinical trials. Although expensive, a high quality manufacturer will invest in this type of evidence using the exact commercial formulation available to consumers. Any brand worth consideration will have this data available for review.

3. Quality Manufacturing Processes

By definition, all probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. The live part is very important, but also one of the most challenging aspects of manufacturing. Because small factors can make a big difference in the viability of a probiotic formulation, quality processes are vital.

All ingredients in a probiotic formulation should support the health and activity of the probiotics without introducing unnecessary additives and potential allergens. A quality manufacturer will be pleased to detail the function of each component should you have questions. Probiotic manufacturers also take different approaches to stabilizing their formulations. But the highest quality manufacturers will share the analytical data to demonstrate that their probiotics survive the harsh gastric acid environment and deliver the number of metabolically active microbes stated on the package right up until the date of expiration. You can dramatically reduce the potential of consuming dead probiotics by asking the manufacturer for viability and stability data and purchasing your probiotics through a reliable channel such as your healthcare provider, direct from the manufacturer, or through manufacturer-managed distribution channels. Without proper oversight, probiotics may be shipped or stored improperly which can impact their efficacy.

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Closing Remarks

Today’s targeted probiotic interventions offer a valuable complementary health solution that is effective, safe to use alongside conventional therapies, and can be fast-acting, especially when supported by microbiome-friendly foods (whole foods rich in prebiotic fibers). In fact, according to a 2019 publication in Nutrients, “manipulation of macronutrient intake can consistently shift the composition of the gut microbiota within the span of a day” (Leeming, E.R., 2019).

A daily probiotic can be a great addition to bolster the gut-brain axis and mental well-being, liver detoxification and metabolic support, and microbiome restoration especially when being treated with an antibiotic. But not all formulations are the same. Doing the diligence to ensure quality and efficacy will make all the difference to your health.

The post Next Generation Probiotics and the Promise of Targeted Microbiome Support appeared first on Alternative Medicine Magazine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Difference between Naturopathic and Holistic Medicines?

The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine relies heavily on drugs and surgery to treat its patients. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. The CAM is not intended to be a replacement for conventional treatment. It is meant to assist patients who wish to have control over their own healthcare and choose what is best.

Naturopathy, on the other hand is used to supplement conventional medical practices. It focuses on treating the whole body, mind, and spirit. There are many forms of naturopathy: Ayurveda and Traditional Native American Medicine as well as Functional Medicine.

It is important for you to know that some CAM modalities can overlap with conventional medicine. For example, herbal remedies can be prescribed by doctors and naturopaths alike. Naturopaths, however, tend to recommend lifestyle changes rather than prescription medication.

Naturopathy can be called “complementary” when it is used in combination with conventional medicine. Naturopaths may prescribe medication when needed.

There are differences between naturopathic medicine and other CAM modalities:

Naturopaths are not qualified to prescribe or diagnose medication.
Naturopaths may work alongside the patient’s family doctor and may refer patients to specialists if needed.
Naturopathic physicians must be licensed by their provinces. CAM practitioners need to be self-regulated.
Naturopathy stresses prevention and wellness, while offering education on diet and exercise.
Naturopaths emphasize the importance of lifestyle factors such as nutrition, sleep, stress management and exercise.
Naturopharmacists can use botanicals and mineral to treat specific conditions.
Naturopodists have the ability to offer individualized care that is tailored to each patient’s needs.
The College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario is responsible for licensing Naturopaths.
Naturopatrists are licensed by provincial regulatory bodies.
The Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors has registered Naturopaticians.
Naturotherapists are licensed by the College of Naturopaths of British Columbia.
The United States National Board of Medical Examiners has licensed Naturobiotic Therapists.
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency entitles homeopaths.
The term “holistic” refers to the belief that all aspects of life – physical, emotional, spiritual, and social – should be considered when making decisions about one’s health. Holistic doctors will examine all aspects of your health, not just one.

What does holistic refer to?

Holistic simply means holistic. Holistic means to see the whole picture and not just a part. This is not always easy because we are used to seeing things as separate parts.

We tend to think in terms of black and white. But actually, there is an infinite variety of shades of grey.

It is important to consider all angles when working on a project. You should look at it from all sides.

Try to understand how it fits together as a whole. How do its various elements interact with each other?

Ask yourself why you are having trouble with a particular element. Make sure to take into account the impact of every change you make.

Which types of treatment should not be considered holistic medicine?

Holistic medicine treats the whole person, not the symptoms. It promotes health and prevents disease.

Holistic medicine relies on natural remedies such homeopathy, herbs, and acupuncture to replace drugs and surgery.

Holistic medicine encompasses lifestyle changes, such as diet, exercise, meditation, yoga and breathing exercises.

Holistic medicine is often called integrative medicine because it integrates all aspects of a patient’s physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual needs into one comprehensive care plan.

Holistic medicine emphasizes prevention, early detection and healthy living.

Holistic doctors believe in the possibility of multiple causes. Instead, they look at the entire picture, including genetic factors, environmental influences, lifestyle choices, and personal habits.

Holistic practitioners emphasize the mind and emotions more than the body.

Holistic physicians work closely with their patients to determine what will best meet their individual needs.

What is holistic medical opposite?

Holistic medicine is an approach to health care that considers all aspects of the human body and its emotional, social, spiritual, and environmental dimensions. It recognizes that each illness must have multiple causes, and therefore requires a combination or several treatments to be most effective.

Holistic medicine doctors believe that prevention is more effective than treatment. To help patients achieve optimal health, they work closely with them.

They seek to identify underlying causes of disease and prevent it from recurring. Holistic physicians look at the whole person and not just the physical organs. They often refer to the entire being as “the body.”

This means that they go beyond skin care and treat the entire body holistically. The doctor may recommend changes in diet, exercise, or lifestyle. The doctor may recommend meditation, yoga, massage, acupuncture or chiropractic treatment.

Statistics

According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)

External Links

How To

What products can be used in holistic medicines?

This product can be described as “natural” without necessarily being organic. These products could have been grown naturally without pesticides or fertilizers. But they were also processed in a way that is safer for your health. Some herbs can trigger allergic reactions in certain people, so it is important to make sure that they are prepared according to their requirements. It is more common to find herbs in grocery stores than at health food shops. These herbs often have higher levels of herbicides than those sold at grocery stores.

The majority of herbal products are made from dried plants. Some people prefer to purchase them in liquid form because they are usually cheaper. This doesn’t necessarily mean they are safer. Liquid herbs can lose nutrients during processing. The product may lose its original potency. Most herbal supplements are not subject to quality control before they are sold.

Herbs and spices are generally added to foods after cooking. You’ll find them in condiments like ketchup, mustard, salad dressing, barbecue sauce, soup mixes, and marinades.

Supplements are generally taken orally (by taking them by mouth). Most vitamins are available in tablet form. Other vitamins and minerals can be purchased in capsules.

Homeopathic remedies are highly concentrated substances made from plants, animals, minerals, or synthetics. They are meant to stimulate the body’s healing mechanisms. They can be called “homeopathic”, but they don’t work the same as regular medications. They act on the body’s immune system to restore balance, and promote wellness. Homeopathic remedies have been proven safe and effective. They are popularly used in Europe and South America.

Acupuncture involves inserting needles at specific points on the meridians of your bodies. It is based a traditional Chinese medical theory that states there are energy channels through them, where the life force flows. According to the theory, illness occurs when these channels become blocked. By stimulating energy flow along the meridian lines, the body is believed to recover its normal functioning.

To correct misalignments in the bones, chiropractors manipulate the spine. American doctor Daniel David Palmer invented this technique in 1895. He claimed he could diagnose illnesses and cure diseases by manipulating the vertebrae. His methods included spinal adjustments as well as muscle tests and percussion.

Chiropractic has seen a lot of popularity in recent years. Many believe it works better than conventional medicine for back pain.

Massage therapy includes rubbing, tapping or tapping on muscles, joints, or other body parts. Massage is a great way to relax tight muscles and reduce tension. The massage therapists may use deep tissue, sports and reflexology, myofascial releases, trigger point therapy, or other techniques.

Reflexology is an alternative medicine involving pressure applied to specific areas of the feet and hands using thumb pads, fingers, and toes. This method, according to reflexologists, stimulates the body’s natural healing ability.

Aromatherapy uses essential oils extracted from plants to relieve stress, improve well-being, and enhance moods. Aromatherapy is also beneficial because essential oils can have a positive effect on health conditions, such as headache relief and arthritis treatment. There are many kinds of aromatherapy.

Craniosacral Treatment uses gentle touch for pain relief and discomfort. Cranial is the skull, sacrum is Latin for “sac”, and cranial-sacral therapy combines both. The therapist applies light pressure on various areas of the patient’s head, neck, shoulders, arms and legs while moving her/his hand across the body.

Cupping therapy is performed by applying cups to the skin to create suction and draw out toxins. Cupping can be used to detoxify.

Supplements are either oral or topical products that contain vitamins and minerals, herbs extracts, enzymes, probiotics. antioxidants, and other fatty acids. Dietary Supplements Health and Education Act of94 is the FDA’s regulation of dietary supplements. To be legal, a dietary supplements must meet two criteria. First, the product must be a “dietary ingredient” which means it contains more that one percent of a vitamin mineral, herb or other botanical on the Food and Drug Administration’s Generally Recognized As Safe List. It must have been manufactured following Good Manufacturing Practices.

Electrotherapy uses electricity to stimulate the nerves and muscles. The most common type of electrotherapy is transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). TENS devices deliver low-level electric pulses to the skin using electrodes. These pulses activate brain receptors to block pain signals. You can also use electrotherapy in other ways, such as interferencential current therapy or magnetic field treatment, and even ultrasound therapy.

Energy healing is based in the belief that everyone has inherent healing abilities. Also, that our thoughts, emotions, and beliefs can have an impact on our physical health. Although energy healing has existed since ancient times, modern practitioners generally accept that there are multiple layers of energy within and around us. One layer of energy is called emotional. Another layer is known as mental energy. Others include psychic, spiritual and chakras. Vital, life force, prana. Kundalini, biofield. Aura, quantum fields, and prana. These energies may be connected to the entire universe, according to some. Some believe they are able to heal others by using their minds. There is not much scientific evidence supporting energy medicine.

Energy psychology is about studying the effects of emotions on physiological functions, and vice versa. Energy psychology is often considered an alternative for psychotherapy, as it does not focus on past events but rather on helping clients to change their behaviour. Although energy psychology doesn’t require a specific theoretical framework, it draws on many disciplines such as cognitive behavioral therapy and transactional analysis.

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This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.

If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you’re experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.

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By: Dick Benson
Title: Next Generation Probiotics and the Promise of Targeted Microbiome Support
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/conditions/gut-health/microbiome/next-generation-probiotics-and-the-promise-of-targeted-microbiome-support/
Published Date: Sun, 27 Aug 2023 21:32:14 +0000

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Difference between Naturopathic and Holistic Medicines?

Naturopathy can be called “complementary” when it is used in combination with conventional medicine. Naturopaths may prescribe medication when needed.

There are differences between naturopathic medicine and other CAM modalities:

Naturopaths are not qualified to prescribe or diagnose medication.
Naturopaths may work alongside the patient’s family doctor and may refer patients to specialists if needed.
Naturopathic physicians must be licensed by their provinces. CAM practitioners need to be self-regulated.
Naturopathy stresses prevention and wellness, while offering education on diet and exercise.
Naturopaths emphasize the importance of lifestyle factors such as nutrition, sleep, stress management and exercise.
Naturopharmacists can use botanicals and mineral to treat specific conditions.
Naturopodists have the ability to offer individualized care that is tailored to each patient’s needs.
The College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario is responsible for licensing Naturopaths.
Naturopatrists are licensed by provincial regulatory bodies.
The Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors has registered Naturopaticians.
Naturotherapists are licensed by the College of Naturopaths of British Columbia.
The United States National Board of Medical Examiners has licensed Naturobiotic Therapists.
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency entitles homeopaths.
The term “holistic” refers to the belief that all aspects of life – physical, emotional, spiritual, and social – should be considered when making decisions about one’s health. Holistic doctors will examine all aspects of your health, not just one.