Company insight
Postbiotics: A new frontier in functional foods
ABbiotek Health is a dynamic life sciences company that supplies the pharma, medical nutrition, food, nutriceutical and pet care markets with specialised microbiome modulating solutions using fermentation technology involving bacteria, yeasts and enzymes. Jordi Cuñé, R&D manager at ABbiotek Health, takes us on an exploration of the human gut microbiome and the transformative potential of postbiotics.
R
emember the last time you felt truly vibrant, energised and healthy? Chances are, your gut played a starring role in that feeling. We often underestimate the influence of our gut microbiome on overall health, but the truth is, it’s a powerhouse that impacts everything from our immunity and metabolism to our mood and mental clarity. This hidden world within us, teeming with trillions of microorganisms, is a universe of its own, and we’re only just beginning to grasp its full potential.
One of the most exciting discoveries in this realm is the emergence of postbiotics. Think of them as a mainstay of the gut microbiome, delivering powerful benefits without the complexities of their live probiotic counterparts. As Jordi Cuñé, R&D manager at ABbiotek Health, explains, “Postbiotics offer a range of benefits to overall health, particularly in areas of gut, immune, and metabolic support.”
Navigating the world of biotics Before we dive deeper into the wonders of postbiotics, let’s take a quick tour of the “biotics” family. Prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics each play a unique role in nurturing our gut health. Prebiotics are a substrate that are selectively used by host microorganisms conferring a health benefit, according to the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP).
Probiotics are live microorganisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, can confer health benefits on the host. They’re can be found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir and sauerkraut. Probiotics help restore gut balance and keep things running smoothly.
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Postbiotics can easily be added to a number of different food products, including beverages.
And then, of course, there are postbiotics, the rising stars of gut health. These offer a more stable and predictable way to support gut health. They’re like the “supercharged” versions of probiotics, delivering targeted benefits without the complexities of live bacteria. ISAPP defines them as “preparation of inanimate microorganisms and/or their components that confers a health benefit on the host”. Naturally, that host is us.
The gut microbiota and our health Our gut and our immune system are like two peas in a pod, constantly communicating and influencing each other. A balanced gut microbiome is essential for a healthy immune system, helping it distinguish between friend and foe. Postbiotics, especially those containing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate, are like the peacekeepers of the gut, calming inflammation and promoting a balanced immune response. They help train
our immune cells to fight off infections effectively while preventing overreactions that can lead to allergies and autoimmune diseases. “A healthy microbiome supports the intestinal barrier, preventing harmful pathogens from entering the bloodstream,” says Cuñé. “The microbes stimulate the production of mucus and antimicrobial peptides, which protect the gut lining.” Our gut microbiome also plays a crucial role in how our bodies process nutrients and regulate energy. It’s like the conductor of our metabolic orchestra, ensuring that everything runs in harmony. Postbiotics have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, helping our bodies regulate blood sugar levels more effectively. This is particularly important for preventing and managing type 2 diabetes. They also help regulate cholesterol and fat metabolism, contributing to a healthy cardiovascular system. Cuñé explains, “Microbes in the gut affect how the body processes fats, regulating cholesterol levels and lipid metabolism.”
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