The Crucial Role Of Microbiota…

III – Track Of Natural Therapeutic Treatments

Numerous natural therapeutic approaches have emerged to modulate the intestinal microbiota, stimulate the vagus nerve, and alleviate inflammation associated with inflammatory diseases.

Diet is a key factor in ameliorating or worsening flare-ups of inflammatory bowel disease.

Food is also the cornerstone of good general health. Let us remember that it orchestrates the immune system, the nervous system, and finally, the endocrine system ( hormonal ).

1 – Prebiotics

Studies have shown that the incorporation of foods rich in prebiotic fibers, such as leafy vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains, combined with adequate hydration, can promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut microbiota and reduce inflammation (Holscher, 2017) [13]. Inulin has also been shown to be effective in regulating the composition of the microbe and reducing liver inflammation even when alcohol is consumed. Let us recall here the importance of butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid manufactured by the fermentation of colonic bacteria and which is an agent stimulating the growth of the microbiota in addition to all its anti-carcinogenic, cardioprotective and immunoprotective benefits.

It is also important to note that foods such as Pulses, lactose, and gluten contain anti-nutritional agents despite their virtues. This can negatively impact digestion when the digestive tract is weakened, causing intolerance and bloating, for example.

2 – Probiotics

The most common are lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, which promote an anti-inflammatory environment and limit the growth of harmful bacteria. These bacteria are found mainly in the human digestive tract, but also in various fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, fermented vegetables (such as sauerkraut and kimchi), and other fermented dairy products.

Symbiotics, which synchronously combine prebiotics and probiotics, may benefit bowel health to optimize their effects.

3 – Correction Of Deficiencies

Three out of four people with inflammatory bowel disease have nutritional deficiencies: Iron, Calcium, Vitamin D, Vitamin B1, B6, B9, B12, Zinc, Magnesium. Laboratory tests routinely detect all of these deficiencies. Emphasis is placed on vitamin D, which, if present, may decrease the risk of developing the disorder or of flare-ups.

Resveratrol is also a substance with many benefits. It is a superantioxidant and anti-inflammatory power present in the diet and as a supplement. However, the latter requires more clinical studies to consider reliable holistic therapeutic treatments.

4 – Nutritional Supplements

L-tryptophan is transformed by the intestinal microbiota into numerous derivatives involved in the protection of the intestinal barrier by the manufacture of indole compounds. In case of disturbance of themicr obiota this production is decreasing. Thus, a complementation of L-tryptophan is beneficial, it combines well with saffron and magnesium. It can also be chosen in the form of its precursor: 5-HTP, present in the plant Griffonia.

Polyphenols, such as curcumin (resveratrol is one of them), are very powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents. They are found mainly in a variety of plant-based foods. Curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric, a spice commonly used in Asian cuisine, especially in curry, while resveratrol is abundant in red grape skin, red wine, berries (such as blackberries and blueberries), and peanuts.

The National Nutrition Health Program (PNNS) recommends limiting alcohol consumption. For adults, it is recommended not to drink more than 10 standard drinks per week and not to drink alcohol more than 5 days a week. In addition, it is recommended not to exceed 2 standard glasses per day. For some populations, such as pregnant women and people with specific health conditions, total abstinence is strongly recommended.

5 – Balanced Diet

A balanced, fiber-rich diet promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut microbiota. In contrast, a diet rich in saturated fats and sugars can promote the development of pathogenic bacteria and inflammation (Singh et al., 2017) [14].

The essential elements to be addressed when mentioning a balanced diet are:

• Eat a variety of foods and learn about the examples of associations to do or not to do at each time of the different meals of the day (breakfast, lunch, snack, dinner). To reduce the glycemic index of meals and balance them by ensuring proper micronutrient uptake.
• Increasing fruit and vegetable consumption
• Increasing iron and vitamin C intake
• Increasing calcium and vitamin D intake
• Ensuring these water supplies
• Limiting processed foods ( high sodium, saturated and trans fats )
• Limiting soda, fried food
• Increasing consumption of oily fish ( Omega 3 , ALA , DHA )
• 1:5 ratio in omega 3:omega 9
• Diversifying vegetable oils
• Two dairy products / days maximum + One cheese / day maximum
• Eating foods with a low glycemic index, whole grains
• Reduce consumption of fatty meat, favor lean meat
• Vary starches
• Inquire about the different products ( fruits and vegetables ) of the seasons
• Limiting contact with toxic and irritating products, including tobacco
• Maintain regular physical activity and avoid physical inactivity

6 – Physical Activity & Stimulation Of The Vagus Nerve

The vagus nerve plays a significant anti-inflammatory role in the intestine. Regular moderate to vigorous physical activity has been associated with favorable changes in intestinal microbiota and reduced systemic inflammation (Monda et al., 2017) [15]. The management of

Stress reduction through relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can also benefit gut health by reducing the inflammatory response (Rao et al., 2019) [16].

7 – Sleep

Quality sleep is also essential to maintain the intestinal microbiota balance and regulate inflammation, as changes in the circadian rhythm can disrupt microbial diversity and promote inflammation (Thaiss et al., 2016) [17].

8 – Stress Management

Studies have shown that chronic stress can alter the composition of the intestinal microbiota and increase intestinal permeability, contributing to the development of inflammatory diseases (Bested et al., 2013) [18]. As also demonstrated (Li et al., 2018) [19], stress can increase intestinal permeability, resulting in the leakage of potentially harmful substances into the bloodstream, which can trigger an inflammatory response. According to (Kelly et al., 2015) [20], prolonged stress reduces the diversity of beneficial microbial species and promotes the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Stress hormones such as cortisol can also directly influence the activity of the intestinal immune system, thus modulating the inflammatory response (Galli et al., 2019) [21].

Approaches such as meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, deep respiration, and yoga have been widely studied for their ability to reduce stress levels and promote a state of psychological well-being (Pascoe et al., 2017) [22]. These practices can help regulate the brain-bowel axis and attenuate the stress-induced inflammatory response. In addition, strong social support and enjoyable recreational activities can help to build resilience to stress and promote optimal bowel health (Bolger et al., 2019) [23].

9 – Essential Oils

In addition to dietary changes and healthy lifestyles, some studies suggest that using essential oils can also benefit intestinal health. For example, research has shown that certain essential oils, such as peppermint essential oil and ginger essential oil, can positively affect digestion by reducing gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating and abdominal pain (Cash et al., 2016) [24]. In addition, other essential oils, such as cinnamon essential oil and thyme essential oil, have demonstrated potential antimicrobial properties that could help maintain the balance of the gut microbiota (Zu et al., 2010) [25]. However, it is important to note that research on the use of essential oils in the context of inflammatory bowel diseases is still limited, and further studies are needed better to understand their efficacy and safety in this field.

Conclusion

Research on gut microbiota has revealed the extent of its influence on our overall health, going far beyond simple digestion. The scientific discoveries have shown that this, a complex ecosystem of microorganisms, plays an essential role in maintaining our body’s homeostasis, impacting our metabolism and nervous system.

Metabolic disorders, such as type 2 diabetes and obesity, as well as neurological disorders, including depression and Alzheimer’s disease, have been closely linked to alterations in the gut microbiota. Studies, such as those conducted by Cani et al. (2008) [26] and Cryan et al. (2019) [27], have demonstrated the link between intestinal dysbiosis and the development of these pathological conditions.

Dysbiosis, often resulting from factors such as antibiotic use (immuno- suppressants), unbalanced diet, and stress, creates an environment conducive to chronic inflammation and disrupted nutrient metabolism, contributing to the emergence of metabolic disorders. Moreover, recent research, such as that conducted by Sampson and Mazmanian (2015) [28], has highlighted the crucial role of the intestinal microbiota in regulating neurotransmission and cognitive function, highlighting its involvement in neurological disorders.

By better understanding the role of this microbial ecosystem, we could develop new therapeutic strategies that focus on restoring its balance, thereby opening the way to an innovative approach to global health and on treating metabolic and neurological pathologies

This article builds on the research conducted by a growing scientific community, which continues to explore the fascinating complexity between gut microbiota and human health by adding an integrative or holistic perspective to therapeutic clinical management.

Keyword	Definition
Microbiota	A collection of microorganisms that colonize a specific environment, such as the human body.
Flore microbial	Another term designating the microbiota, referring to all the microorganisms present in a given environment.
Microbioma	The totality of the genes of the microorganisms constituting the microbiota, thus encompassing their genetic diversity.
Dysbiosis	Imbalance of gut microbiota, promoting growth of pathogenic bacteria and reducing bacterial diversity, associated with various chronic and inflammatory diseases.
Chronic inflammation	A prolonged inflammatory response in the intestine characterized by increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines associated with inflammatory bowel diseases.
Para-inflammation	A low-intensity inflammatory condition resulting from chronic stimuli, such as dysbiosis, which may contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as inflammatory diseases.
Immunit innate	Part of the immune system that provides an immediate, nonspecific response to pathogens, influenced by the gut microbiota.
Immunit adaptive	A part of the immune system that provides a specific, long-term response against pathogens, educated by the gut microbiota to distinguish friendly species from pathogens.
Metabolism	The set of biochemical processes that take place in an organism, including food degradation, nutrient synthesis and energy regulation, influenced by the microbiota.

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