The billions of bacteria that inhabit our planet are invisible to the human eye, yet it is now scientifically established that they form the very foundation of life on Earth. Among them, some are particularly beneficial and are known as probiotics (physiological bacteria).
According to the FAO and WHO, probiotics are defined as “live microorganisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host.” Above all, these microorganisms must be proven safe.
To better understand the importance of our intestinal microbiota, it is essential to recognize the value of maintaining its balance. A well-balanced microbiota, supported by proper nutrition, helps prevent chronic inflammation and plays a crucial role in the efficiency of our immune system.
The gut can be considered an extraordinary organ that must remain in balance across all its functions to help prevent both intestinal and extra-intestinal disorders. Ongoing scientific research continues to reveal new insights into the digestive system—particularly the small intestine and colon. The intestine is no longer viewed as a passive transit pathway, but as a dynamic system involved in absorption, secretion, excretion, and immune regulation.
A central role is also played by intestinal hormones, whose involvement in both health and disease is receiving increasing attention from researchers.
As the largest endocrine organ in the body, the gastrointestinal tract releases a wide range of hormones that:
- regulate the movement and distribution of food;
- support the proper utilization of nutrients;
- help protect the body from poor dietary habits.
Although the precise mechanisms by which these hormones contribute to conditions such as obesity, bloating, and diabetes are not yet fully understood, their receptors are known to be involved in many key physiological processes.
The intestinal microbial population—referred to as the “microbiota”—is essential for numerous metabolic and non-metabolic activities occurring along the intestinal walls and within enterocytes.
It is important to distinguish between microbiota and microbiome: the microbiota refers to the community of microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, and fungi), while the microbiome represents their genetic material—the DNA and RNA that define their functional potential.
In short: microbiota = the microorganisms; microbiome = their genetic blueprint.
Equally important is distinguishing between diet and nutrition. Eating simply involves introducing food into the digestive tract, whereas nutrition refers to the complex processes that transform food into absorbable and usable substances.
From raw ingredients to the final product, multiple processes can alter the physical and chemical properties of food. For this reason, being mindful of what we eat is essential to prevent systemic intestinal inflammation and to maintain a strong and efficient immune system.
A key function of the microbiota is to prevent long-term dysbiosis (imbalance). Maintaining a state of eubiosis—microbial balance—is fundamental, particularly for the absorption of nutrients that generate essential metabolites, including those that influence higher functions such as brain activity.
Indeed, mood disorders (including anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and bipolar disorder) as well as behavior can be influenced by alterations in the gut microbiota. This is especially evident when the immune system is compromised, as immune cells rely heavily on a wide range of microbial metabolites to support normal development and behavioral regulation.
Naturopath Dr. Monica De Felice