Intestinal Dysbiosis: The Role of the Microbiota
The balance between body and mind is crucial for the quality of life, and this also applies to the intestines and their bacterial flora.
The intestinal microbiota, which refers to the collection of bacteria inhabiting our digestive system, plays an essential role in both gastrointestinal and general well-being. However, various physical and psychological factors can alter its composition, compromising this delicate ecosystem.
The intestine hosts billions of bacteria, distributed in specific areas, tasked with regulating its functions. When the balance between the "good" bacteria, which have a protective action, and the potentially harmful ones is disrupted, favoring the proliferation of fermentative or putrefactive strains, it is referred to as intestinal dysbiosis.
What Are the Causes of Intestinal Dysbiosis?
The alteration of the intestinal bacterial flora can be caused by several factors, including:
- Viral or bacterial infections.
- Food contamination along the nutritional chain.
- Intolerances and allergies to certain foods.
- Inflammatory or infectious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Unbalanced diet or sudden dietary changes.
- Pharmacological treatments, especially prolonged use of antibiotics.
- Stress and anxiety, which can affect intestinal health.
Given the variety of factors involved, it is essential not to underestimate any gastrointestinal symptoms or changes in overall well-being.
What Are the Possible Warning Signs of Intestinal Dysbiosis?
The first signs to watch for include:
- Digestive difficulties and a feeling of heaviness.
- Alterations in bowel movements, such as diarrhea or constipation.
- Abdominal bloating and flatulence.
- A sensation of fullness or irregular bowel movements.
- Persistent bad breath.
Recognizing these symptoms is important to intervene promptly and identify any microbiota imbalances.
Diagnosis
To exclude other conditions and confirm the presence of dysbiosis, specific diagnostic tests can be performed, chosen by the specialist based on the patient's clinical picture:
- Blood and stool tests to detect inflammation, infections, or food allergies.
- Urine tests, useful in some metabolic evaluations.
- Intestinal permeability test to check for any alterations in the intestinal barrier.
- Lactulose breath test to evaluate the production of intestinal gases and possible bacterial overgrowth.
- Genetic microbiota test, performed on stool samples using genetic sequencing techniques, useful for identifying dysbiosis and characterizing intestinal bacteria, even for preventive purposes.
An adequate diagnosis allows for the implementation of the most suitable therapeutic path to restore intestinal balance.
Treatment Options
Since the symptoms of intestinal dysbiosis can be common to other conditions, it is crucial to promptly consult a specialist for an accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment.
The therapy depends on the triggering cause and is personalized based on the patient's needs. In many cases, treatment includes:
- Probiotics and prebiotics (also known as "lactic acid bacteria"), which help rebalance the intestinal microbiota and strengthen the immune system.
- A balanced diet, rich in fiber, vitamins, and essential nutrients.
- A healthy lifestyle, with regular physical activity and a good balance between sleep and wakefulness.
The Importance of Diet: Dietary Tips
In cases of mild dysbiosis or to prevent intestinal imbalances, it is useful to follow these dietary guidelines:
- Avoid mixing too many foods in the same meal, to prevent digestive overload.
- Limit the consumption of pre-packaged and ultra-processed foods, which are rich in preservatives, sugars, fats, and artificial additives.
- Reduce processed meats, sugary drinks, and alcohol, which can disrupt the microbiota balance.
- Prefer foods rich in fiber, such as vegetables and fresh fruit, legumes, whole grains, fish, unprocessed meat, rice, fresh cheeses, and fermented foods.
- Drink plenty of water, essential for proper intestinal function.
It is also important to avoid overly restrictive or monotonous diets, often influenced by trends or DIY choices, as they could worsen the problem rather than solve it.
A balanced approach, combined with the right therapies, helps restore intestinal balance and improve overall well-being.
Discover more about the Gastroenterology Service at UPMC Salvator Mundi International Hospital.