Our stomachs have around 100 trillion bacteria that work together to form the gut microbiota. The “good” or “friendly” bacteria present in our organs are known as probiotics. These microorganisms are key to digestive system, immune function and nutrient absorption.
As a woman ages and enters her 50s and goes through menopause, a series of subsequent hormonal shifts change the gut microbiota. This article explains how to keep your gut microbiota healthy and maintain the best probiotics for women over 50 years old.
What happens to your intestines in your 50s?
Further research is needed, but researchers have found that female gut microbiota changes as they enter their 50s. 1 April 2022 Review Examining 10 studies on sex hormones, menopause, and enterobacteria showed a decrease in the biodiversity of enterobacteria after menopause, but it remains to be seen whether these changes are clearly good or bad.
In five of these studies, scientists found a decrease in intestinal bacterial diversity in women with estrogen levels comparable to postmenopausal or postmenopausal women. Three other studies showed that postmenopausal women had more gut microbiota similar to the male gut microbiota than women who had not yet experienced menopause.
The levels of certain intestinal bacteria have also changed. For example, after menopause, women tended to have higher levels Butailyrissimonas, Donna, Pribul Terra, Sattaraand Bacteroides Tension and there’s a lower level Ruminococcus and Sturdy Bacteria.
in Another study Analyzing data from over 1,000 women, the study found that the gut microbiota of postmenopausal women houses high levels of bacteria associated with obesity and inflammation.
Tips for choosing the right probiotics
Remember: The best way to maintain a healthy gut microbiota at any age is to use a healthy diet rich in plant-based foods, an active lifestyle, and minimal alcohol consumption. However, if you are looking for additional ways to enhance your gut health as you are in your 50s, here are some tips to keep in mind when choosing a probiotic.
- Which strain of bacteria you choose will be of question: Because different probiotic strains offer a variety of health benefits, it is necessary to select strains that have been clinically proven to have clinical benefits for the specific symptoms and problems that are turrets.
- Target symptoms or conditions: You and your healthcare provider should assess the problems or symptoms you are trying to address due to the inherent health benefits of tension. for example, Saccharomyces boulardii It has been shown to support antibiotics and diarrhea associated with the intestines of travelers, but may not be effective for vaginal health.
- CFU Count: CFU count refers to a “colony forming unit” that represents the amount of active live bacterial cells contained in a supplement. Remember – more CFUs aren’t necessarily better. Consult your healthcare provider to determine the best dosage for you.
- Refrigerated vs shelf stable: Be careful about how to properly store these living microorganisms. Always check the label and follow the storage instructions.
Probiotic strains best for older women
Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Postmenopausal estrogen depletion leads to the walls of the vaginal canal. Thin and drythe possibility of UTI is increasing. Lactobacillus rhamnosus It is a strain that has been shown to support vaginal health and boost the immune system.
Like your gut microbiota, your vagina also has its own complex ecosystem of bacteria that need to be healthy to avoid infection. This strain of bacteria helps maintain the optimal balance of bacteria in the vaginal microbiome, reducing the likelihood of common infections such as yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis. It also helps strengthen the immune response and helps the body dodge a variety of pathogens.
Lactobacillus reuteri
This is another strain that supports urinary tract health. Lactobacillus reuteri prevents bad bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract wall and reduces the risk of developing urinary tract infections (this is what happens when you have a urinary tract infection). Postmenopausal increase). This strain also provides anti-inflammatory properties to balance the increase intestinal bacteria associated with inflammation that occurs after menopause.
Bifidobacterium long
Symptoms such as bloating, constipation, and digestive tract affect us all As we get older And our system is slower, but yes Especially common In postmenopausal women, this strain is extremely effective for digestive health. Bifidobacterium longum regulates bowel movements and reduces diarrhea and constipation. It also supports nutrient absorption, allowing your body to absorb the maximum amount of nutrients from the food it consumes.
Bifidobacterium bifidum
Reducing the amount of estrogen and progesterone can slow the digestive process. When food takes longer to travel through the digestive tract, more water is absorbed and constipation occurs. Bigidobacterium bifidum makes digestion more efficient by helping to break down complex carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It also supports the immune system and helps you fight the body against illnesses and infections.
lactobacillus acidophilus
Another versatile strain that helps maintain a healthy balance of intestinal bacteria after 50 is Lactobacillus Acidophilus. This strain inhibits harmful bacteria overgrowth and supports healthy gut microbiota.
