Nutri Courses

Advisory

Probiotic cultures

Probiotic cultures are live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, provide health benefits to the host. These cultures are usually bacteria, but may also include yeasts. Probiotic cultures are present in certain foods such as yogurt, kefir, or fermented vegetables, and are also available as dietary supplements. Probiotics help maintain a healthy balance of intestinal microflora, which is crucial for the proper functioning of the digestive system.

From a nutrition and health perspective, probiotic cultures support digestion and nutrient absorption, assist in the treatment of certain intestinal diseases, strengthen the immune system, and may contribute to overall health. Some studies also suggest that probiotics may play a role in the prevention and treatment of certain chronic diseases, including obesity, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular diseases.

Good day, Mr. Jelínek.

In the lesson, you mention that there are probiotic cultures known to clearly worsen HIT symptoms, and conversely, some that have a beneficial impact.
Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus bulgaricus have a negative impact.
The positive effect is seen with Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus reuteri, Bifidobacterium infantis, and Bifidobacterium longum.
Since my wife has HIT, I have been trying to find an appropriate supplement to support her gut microbiome based on the information above. I found products that contained, for instance, 2 positive strains and perhaps some additional ones or even 4 positive, which made me rejoice, but 1 negative. In this context, I want to ask whether one negative strain compared to 4 positive ones, when each is present in the same amount, can negatively affect the overall result, and whether it is better to choose a product with just, say, 2 positive strains or not. Thank you.

That's a good question :-) Since this is a relatively new topic in nutrition research, the answer is not entirely clear, especially in relation to HIT, where it's necessary to proceed individually by testing different options and observing the body's reactions. Moreover, new studies are constantly emerging that push the knowledge further, making it difficult for manufacturers to react quickly and change the composition of their products. One negatively acting strain may (but theoretically might not, which you will only find out after trying it) affect the overall result. If you want to be sure, then choose the "safer" option; unfortunately, there is no other way.

Questions answered by

Mgr. Martin Jelinek
Lecturer and author of the educational system

Mgr. Martin Jelínek has been systematically involved in nutrition education since 1999. He is the founder of ATAC, the educational company behind NutriCourses, and the author of an educational system focused on nutrition, healthy lifestyle, and the practical application of nutrition knowledge.

He graduated from the Faculty of Science at Masaryk University in Brno. Throughout his professional career, he has combined nutrition, education, and the practical application of acquired knowledge. His educational system also includes the ZOF (Zone of Optimal Functioning) learning application, where students turn theory into practical work with meal plans.

In 2007, he launched the first intake of a six-month course focused on the education of nutrition advisors. Over time, this course became the foundation for the further development of the educational system and a range of specialised courses.

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