CONTORNIA

The intestinal microbiota is the set of different bacteria that live in our intestine. From the research carried out, we know that in addition to contributing to the digestive and defense functions of the gastrointestinal tract, it plays a relevant role in the nutritional status and health of people. Health problems, digestive or extra-digestive, such as obesity or type II diabetes, lead to significant changes in the microbiota, which is known as dysbiosis. Obesity is influenced by the interaction of various factors: genetic, environmental (diet and level of physical activity), cultural and social. Today, the intestinal microbiota is considered one more factor among those involved in obesity and metabolic disorders. It has been seen that the microbiota of obese people is different from that of healthy people and behaves differently, making it easier for obesity to perpetuate.

Changing our diet. Diet plays an important role in changing the microbiota, which can strengthen it, promoting health, or weaken it, contributing to the development of various pathologies. To increase beneficial bacteria, you must increase your consumption of:

• Plant foods: fruits, vegetables, legumes, cereals, nuts, spices…
• Fermented foods: yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, pickles…
• Foods containing fermentable fiber and type 3 starch: rice, legumes, potatoes…
• Foods rich in polyphenols: pomegranate, red berries, tea (purple, red…), pure cocoa…
• Increasing physical activity and avoiding a sedentary lifestyle.
• Managing stress appropriately. Chronic stress and lack of rest are factors that alter our intestinal microbiota.
• Supplementation with ferments from specific strains.