Microbiota
Human health is a delicate edifice, supported by interdependent biological, physiological and psychological pillars. One of these key but often overlooked pillars is the microbiota, the fascinating universe of micro-organisms that reside within us.
At Ozon2000, our health philosophy recognises the central role of the microbiota in overall wellbeing and guides our holistic approach to natural skincare.
What is it?
The microbiota, a distinct ecosystem for each individual, is formed from birth.
It provides a multitude of essential services to our bodies. Not only does it aid digestion and help synthesise essential vitamins, it also plays a key role in strengthening our immune system. But it doesn't stop there: the microbiota interacts with our brain, influencing our behaviour and emotions - the so-called "intestine-brain axis".
However, when this delicate balance is disturbed, leading to a situation of dysbiosis, our microbiota can become less beneficial and potentially harmful to our health.
Dysbiosis is associated with a wide range of health problems, not limited to digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome.
In fact, dysbiosis can also play a role in inflammatory diseases, certain types of cancer and many other pathological conditions. Research in this field is multiplying, and the possibilities of links between the intestinal microbiota and various diseases appear to be almost infinite. A better understanding of these interactions will enable us to develop more effective strategies for preventing and treating a wide range of diseases.
Microbiota disorders
In the gastrointestinal tract, as in natural ecosystems, symbiotic relationships exist between micro-organisms and their host.
However, these delicate interactions can be disrupted by various factors, leading to dysbiosis, i.e. an imbalance in the intestinal microbiota..
This imbalance can have negative consequences for an individual's health.
Several factors can contribute to dysbiosis of the intestinal microbiota.
These include an excessive diet of sugars and preservatives, which can encourage the proliferation of opportunistic bacteria to the detriment of beneficial bacteria.
In addition, a chronic viral infection can alter the composition of the microbiota, reducing its diversity and functionality.
Undiagnosed food intolerances, pancreatic insufficiency or a weakened digestive system can also contribute to a disruption of the intestinal microbiota. In this context, the host's ability to absorb nutrients may be compromised, leading to a variety of gastrointestinal disorders and other clinical manifestations. Understanding these interactions and implementing preventive and therapeutic measures to maintain a balanced intestinal microbiota is essential for preserving individual health.
For which pathologies should the microbiota be investigated?
Studies on this subject are appearing almost daily. The microbiota seems to be an increasingly essential element in the way our bodies function.
The indications are therefore very broad:
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): This includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Transplantation of faecal microbiota (FMT) has shown promising results in the treatment of these diseases.
- Clostridioides difficile infections: This is one of the most common and well-established applications of FMT. The treatment aims to re-establish a healthy microbiota that can resist the proliferation of C. difficile.
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): Research suggests that changes to the microbiota may help manage the symptoms of IBS.
- Obesity and type 2 diabetes: Some research suggests that the microbiota may play a role in the metabolism and absorption of nutrients, and therefore potentially in obesity and diabetes.
- Certain neurological and psychiatric diseases: Recent studies suggest that there is a 'gut-brain axis' where the gut microbiota can influence mental state and behaviour. Research is underway to explore how the microbiota could be used to treat conditions such as depression, autism, Parkinson's disease and others.
- Autoimmune diseases: There is also interest in the role that the microbiota could play in autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Some studies even offer hope for a disease for which, unfortunately, there are few cures: Charcot's disease or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
In practice
At Ozon 2000, we attach particular importance to the precise identification of health problems linked to an imbalance in the microbiota. Through detailed analyses, we seek to understand the nature of the imbalance, and by determining the stage and location of fermentation in each individual, we offer tailor-made, precise treatment. Our doctors, trained specifically in this area, work in collaboration with laboratories at the cutting edge of the field.
Once the diagnosis has been made, a personalised care protocol is put in place.
This may include nutritional adjustments, nutritherapy supplements, and the administration of probiotics, prebiotics, symbiotics or postbiotics.
These measures aim to revitalise your microbiota, making it more resilient and restoring the balance that contributes to your overall well-being.
Conclusion
Ultimately, understanding and caring for our microbiota is a journey towards optimal health. It's an exciting exploration that recognises that we are not alone, that we live in symbiosis with billions of micro-organisms which, in turn, can help us live healthier, more fulfilling lives.