Prebiotics: benefits and types

Prebiotics are substances that stimulate the growth of normal microflora in the large intestine. Let's consider their classification, useful properties and rules of application.

There are two main types of microelements used to restore the body's microflora and normalize its functioning after long-term use of drugs, antibiotics, or serious illnesses. We are talking about probiotics and prebiotics. The former are living microorganisms, and the latter are chemical organic compounds. Probiotics are part of the normal intestinal microflora, and prebiotics create all the conditions for the growth and reproduction of bacteria of the normal microflora, suppressing pathogenic microorganisms.

Most prebiotics are found in dairy products, bread, various cereals, bananas, legumes, onions and garlic. Many store-bought products, such as ready-made cereals, yogurts or biscuits, are also enriched with beneficial bacteria, as indicated on their labels. These microelements are used in the complex therapy of intestinal diseases and digestive disorders, dysbacteriosis, flatulence, diarrhea and other painful symptoms.

What are the benefits of prebiotics?

For the intestines and gastrointestinal tract to function properly, it is necessary to eat properly. Since useful microelements and bacteria enter the body with food. If this does not happen, the normal microflora is disrupted, causing various painful symptoms. To eliminate them, the use of special drugs - prebiotics is indicated.

Let's consider how prebiotics are useful for the functioning of the digestive tract and the general condition of the body:

• Liquefaction of harmful mucus in the intestines and normalization of its quantity.
• Stimulation of the synthesis of vitamins B and K.
• Healing of wounds and ulcers on the intestinal mucosa.
• Reparative action and restoration of microflora.
• Maintains optimal acidity for the growth and life of beneficial bacteria.
• Reduction of gas formation and constipation.
• Obstruction of the reflux of gastric juice into the esophagus.
• Antibacterial action and strengthening of immune properties.
• Increase in the volume of feces and stimulation of intestinal peristalsis.
• Neutralization of the harmful effects of antibiotics and other drugs on intestinal microflora.
• Strengthening the intestinal walls and reducing the permeability of its mucous membrane.
• Reduction in blood cortisol and serum cholesterol levels.
• Maintaining acid-base balance in the gastrointestinal tract.
• Improved absorption of essential microelements (calcium, zinc, magnesium, copper).

Very often these substances are used in combination with probiotics. This allows achieving the most effective results in the treatment and prevention of pathological conditions.

Read also:

• Prebiotics for children
• Preparations containing prebiotics
• Products containing prebiotics
• Probiotics and Prebiotics: What's the Difference?

Indications prebiotics

Various gastrointestinal and intestinal disorders are direct indications for the use of prebiotics. They can be used both independently and in complex therapy of such disorders and diseases:

• Malignant lesions of the colon.
• Diarrhea (acute infectious, associated with antibiotics and radiation therapy).
• Skin allergic diseases.
• Acute infectious diseases (flu, acute respiratory viral infections, acute respiratory infections).
• Treatment and prevention of constipation in children, adults and pregnant women.
• Necrotic enterocolitis.
• Nervous disorders.
• Metabolic disorder.
• Obesity.
• Elimination of Helicobacter pylori.
• Irritable bowel syndrome.
• Hepatic encephalopathy and fatty liver disease.
• Inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis, pouchitis, Crohn's disease).
• Treatment and prevention of systemic infections.

The type of prebiotic and the duration of its use for a particular disease is selected by the attending physician.

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Release form

There are two forms of prebiotics: dry and liquid. Dry microelements are available in the form of tablets, capsules for oral use, vials and ampoules. Initially, only dried biomaterial was available. Organic compounds are frozen, then evaporated in a vacuum space. Due to this, only those cells that were in a state of anabiosis remain. That is, beneficial bacteria do not die, but fall into a state of hibernation, waking up in a favorable environment.

This process is called lyophilization. Its advantage is that microelements can be easily transported without losing their beneficial properties. If beneficial bacteria are in a liquid state, they retain their properties and begin to act within 1-2 hours after use. Dry ones show their activity 8 hours after administration. When choosing the most effective prebiotics, it is better to give preference to liquid ones, especially if they are prescribed for children. Since they begin to act faster, providing a therapeutic effect.

Prebiotics in tablets

The full functioning of the body depends on the regular receipt of useful substances and microelements in a natural way, that is, with food. If this does not happen, then prebiotics in tablets or other forms of release are needed. Such medications are used for dysbacteriosis and other gastrointestinal disorders that cannot be cured with vegetables or fruits.

Let's look at the most popular tablet prebiotics:

• Lactofiltrum is a plant-based sorbent with two active components: lignin and lactulose. It is used to detoxify the body and normalize intestinal microflora. It has immunomodulatory properties.
• Stimbifid is a combination drug that includes the following components: oligofructose, inulin, selenium, zinc, vitamins. Neutralizes the effect of toxins, stops the reproduction of bacteria dangerous to the body and causes their death. It is prescribed for various dyspeptic disorders: nausea, flatulence, diarrhea, constipation.
• Dufalac, Hilak Forte are powder preparations used to restore normal intestinal microflora after taking antibiotics, gastrointestinal surgery or poor nutrition. They perfectly support immunity.

All the above-described drugs are best used after consultation with your doctor. From a wide range of different medications, your doctor will help you choose the most effective ones.

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Composition of prebiotics

There are many substances that are part of prebiotics, varying in effectiveness. In their structure, they are complex carbohydrates with a branched chemical formula. This means that there are no microelements with the same composition. There are three main groups:

• Galacto-oligosaccharides – lactose and lactulose, are present in fermented milk products, cow's milk and breast milk.
• Polysaccharides (dietary fiber) are carbohydrates of plant origin: pectin, cellulose, inulin, gums. They contain sugar molecules bound together.
• Fructose-oligosaccharides are carbohydrates found in fruits and vegetables, but are safe for diabetics.

In addition to the above-described groups, the preparations contain such food components and organic compounds as:

• Arginine
• Valin
• Glutamic acid
• Glutathione
• Inulin
• Carotenoids
• Fiber
• Xylobiose
• Lactitol
• Lactulose
• Oligofructose
• Calcium pantothenate
• Para-aminobenzoic acid;
• Pectins
• Selenium
• Sorbitol
• Chitosan
• Eicosapentaenoic acid

The listed substances are included in dietary supplements or medicinal preparations. Microelements can be included in ready-made food products.

Characteristics of prebiotics

Food components that are not digested by enzymes and are not absorbed in the upper sections of the gastrointestinal tract are prebiotics. They are food for beneficial microflora, stimulating its growth and activity. The characteristics of prebiotics indicate their selective stimulation of substances beneficial for intestinal microflora.

To be called a prebiotic, a substance must have the following properties:

• It is not broken down or absorbed in the small intestine and stomach.
• Does not affect metabolic activity and growth of beneficial microbes in the intestines.
• To cause a local or systemic response in the body, to normalize the composition of microflora.

Prebiotic substances influence the intestinal immunity, which has a beneficial effect on the body as a whole. That is why they are prescribed for infectious diseases and immunodeficiency conditions.

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Types of prebiotics

Prebiotics are low-molecular carbohydrates. The polymer molecules are linked together by beta-glycosidic bonds. The simpler the saccharide, the faster it ferments in the gastrointestinal tract and has a bifidogenic effect. Microelements have a certain classification based on the length of their chain:

• Monomeric (single-link) – exhibit bifidogenic action in the oral cavity and esophagus.
• Dimeric – acts in the stomach and small intestine.
• Oligomeric (3-10 links) – activated in the upper sections of the large intestine.
• Polymer (more than 10 links) – begin to work throughout the entire colon.

If you take substances of the same series for a long time, this leads to the activation of microorganisms in a limited area of the gastrointestinal tract. Other strains develop disproportionately, so it is better to use drugs with a combined composition.

Let's look at the main types of prebiotics available for use:

• Pure – such preparations contain only useful substances. A striking example is lactulose syrup, which is available in the medicines Lactusan, Duphalac or Normase.
• Combined with enterosorbents – restore microflora, bind and remove toxic substances from the intestines. Popular drugs: Maxilak, Laktofiltrum.

There are no other classifications, so before taking the medicine, you need to familiarize yourself with its mechanism of action in advance.

Live prebiotics

Useful substances that enter the body with natural food products, for example, with vegetables, fruits or cereals are live prebiotics. They are necessary to maintain normal intestinal microflora of the body. Prebiotic substances, vitamins and minerals are contained in such products:

• Dietary fiber (cellulose) – cereals, bran, seaweed, dried fruits and fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, legumes, greens.
• Polysaccharides (lactose, lactulose) are an important substance for microflora. They are found in dairy products, but can cause allergic reactions if overeaten.
• Fructosaccharides – any fresh vegetables and fruits.
• Prebiotic insulin – removes harmful cholesterol from the body, has a therapeutic effect on microflora, stimulates the metabolism process, strengthens the immune system. It is found in bananas, garlic, onions, chicory and wheat.

To get your daily dose of live prebiotics, it is enough to have oatmeal with yogurt, bran or banana for breakfast. Useful microelements are found in starch (pyrodextrins), citrus fruits and apples (pectin), tomatoes, carrots and radishes (arabinogalactan).

Dry prebiotics

Lyophilized cultures of microorganisms in the form of fine powder are dry prebiotics. They are available in the form of tablets, capsules and powders for suspension. The preparations begin to activate 1-4 hours after application and have a therapeutic effect for 6-8 hours.

Selectively fermented ingredients promote specific changes in the composition and activity of the gastrointestinal microflora, exerting a beneficial effect on the body. Dry prebiotics are used as food ingredients, for example, in porridge, dairy products, chocolate. The most popular of them are: inulin, lactulose, oligofructose, oligosaccharides, galacto-oligosaccharides.

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Liquid prebiotics

Solutions and suspensions with beneficial microorganisms that have not been lyophilized are liquid prebiotics. They are produced in vials and ampoules for oral use. Such solutions contain live bacteria and a substrate, which is their nutrient medium. A striking example of such substances is yoghurts with live bacteria and various bioadditives. Very often, liquid prebiotics are supplemented with vitamins, probiotics, amino acids and other substances.

The peculiarity of this form of microelements useful for intestinal microflora is that they begin to act immediately after entering the body. That is, they do not need time for activation, as dry ones do. Another advantage of liquid is the ability to not only take them orally, but also insert them into the vagina, nose, rectum, apply to the skin and hair.

Prebiotics for the gut

Any disturbances in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract negatively affect the functioning of the entire body. Prebiotics for the intestines are necessary to restore microflora and strengthen local and general immunity. They are available in various forms: tablets, solutions, dry mixtures.

• This type of useful substances is prescribed for children in the early stages of life. These are various purees and special mixtures enriched with vitamins and bacteria. Drops can also be used: Hilak Forte, BioGaia, Enterozhermina, Lactiale-Malysh.
• Pregnant women also need to take care of their intestines. They are prescribed medications with lactulose and fiber. However, it is better to get these substances in a live, natural form, that is, from food. These can be cereals, bananas, legumes, bran, garlic and onions, artichoke.

Beneficial bacteria are also necessary for constipation: Symbiter, Mutoflor, plant fiber, Inulin, Poslabin Lactulose and others. Such drugs are recommended to be used as prescribed by a doctor.

Prebiotics after antibiotics

Antibiotics are prescribed to treat many diseases. This type of drug destroys any bacterial agents in the body, but the destructive effect also affects beneficial bacteria. Antibiotics suppress beneficial microflora. This manifests itself as deterioration of digestion, the appearance of dysbacteriosis and other problems with the gastrointestinal tract.

Prebiotics after antibiotics are aimed at restoring microflora and eliminating the destructive effect of previously used drugs. They act as a source of nourishment for beneficial bacteria, thereby restoring normal bowel function. Let's look at the most effective substances that should be used after antibiotics:

• Lactulose is a nutrient medium for saccharolytic bacteria and is included in various mixtures and preparations to stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in children.
• Inulin – stimulates the growth of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, increases calcium absorption, affects the breakdown of fats. Has an anticarcinogenic effect.
• Oligosaccharides (fructose, galactose) – stimulate the growth of bifidobacteria, found in large quantities in breast milk.
• Pectin – absorbs and removes toxins, toxic substances and harmful bacteria from the body.

The necessary microorganisms are contained in fermented milk products, cheeses, sauerkraut, vegetables and fruits. Low-molecular carbohydrates are useful for the body, which include: pectin, lactulose, soluble dietary fiber.

Laxative prebiotics

Laxative prebiotics are used to quickly and effectively eliminate constipation. They are food components that are not digested in the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract and reach the large intestine unchanged, stimulating the growth of beneficial lactic acid microflora. Due to their laxative effect, they are recommended for use by pregnant women and children. This category of substances includes: inulin, lactulose and fructosaccharides.

They do not have an immediate effect, but their use will allow you to achieve a persistent laxative effect. Microelements accelerate the growth of intestinal microflora, stimulate the movement of feces. When they are fermented, organic acids are produced that improve peristalsis.

The most effective laxative prebiotics:

• Lactitol is a powder for solution preparation. It is used in the treatment and prevention of constipation and diseases of the large intestine. It facilitates the process of emptying, softens feces. With prolonged use or exceeding the recommended dosage, it can cause abdominal discomfort and bloating.
• Dufalac, Goodluck, Poslabin lactulose are lactulose-based drugs. They are used not only to treat constipation, but also before diagnosing abdominal organs. They are excellent for pediatric patients. Lactulose improves peristalsis, softens feces, increases the absorption of phosphorus and calcium, and causes bile secretion in the small intestine. These drugs are not recommended for use in cases of intestinal obstruction, lactulose or fructose intolerance, and with special caution in diabetes.

Prebiotics are prescribed for the treatment of acute and chronic constipation, dysbacteriosis. They remove toxins from the body, suppress the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms. They have virtually no contraindications.

Sorbed prebiotics

Chemical organic compounds used for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes to correct intestinal microflora and improve the immune system are prebiotics. They are absolutely safe for the human body and are part of many natural food products. Sorbated prebiotics are beneficial bacteria immobilized on a sorbent. Their action is based on the ability to settle on the walls of the intestinal mucosa, the sorbent, and each other.

Sorbated preparations have the following properties:

• Increased colonization of beneficial microorganisms and bacteria.
• Restoration of microflora and acceleration of reparative processes in internal organs.
• Adhesion of beneficial substances to the intestinal walls.

Sorbents are necessary to preserve microorganisms when passing through the body into the intestines. They protect bacteria from the acidic environment of the stomach. This type of prebiotics is more effective, since during the period of absorption and passage through the internal organs it retains its quantity, multiplies quickly, providing a therapeutic effect. Microcolonies of prebiotic bacteria improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and restore the intestinal microflora for a long time.

Prebiotics for the vagina

Reduced immunity, taking antibiotics, various inflammatory or infectious diseases, stress and even hypothermia are the main reasons for the disruption of the vaginal microflora. During this period, many symptoms characteristic of dysbiosis appear: an increase in the amount of vaginal discharge, discomfort and dryness in the area of the external genitalia, itching, burning and pain in the vagina. In particularly advanced cases, disruption of the microflora can lead to cystitis, infection of the uterus and appendages.

Prebiotics for the vagina are local immunomodulators. Their action is aimed at eliminating bacteria that caused the disorder, restoring the vaginal microflora and immunity of the vaginal walls.

Let's consider effective prebiotic preparations:

• Vaginorm-S is a biopreparation with the active ingredients: ascorbic acid, lactose. It is used to restore the vaginal biocenosis. It is available in tablet form, so it is intended for intravaginal administration. For treatment, it is recommended to administer 1 tablet per day, at night for 10 days.
• Acylact is a lyophilized agent with high antagonistic activity against pathogenic and opportunistic microorganisms. It is used in gynecological practice for vaginal microflora disorders. It is available in the form of vaginal suppositories. The duration of treatment is 5-10 days, one suppository per day before bedtime.
• Normoflorins (L, B, D) are a biocomplex that includes prebiotics, probiotics and other microorganisms useful for microflora. The drug contains lactitol, the action of which is aimed at stimulating the growth of one's own protective microflora. It is available in 100 ml bottles. For its use, it is recommended to use tampons soaked in the medicine or take the product orally.

As a rule, treatment of dysbiosis takes 3-4 weeks. After therapy, it is necessary to undergo a medical examination and take tests to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment. If the tests are normal, then the use of drugs is stopped. But to maintain healthy microflora, it is necessary to take preventive measures, otherwise the disease will make itself known again.

Tampons with prebiotics

Tampons with prebiotics are used to treat many gynecological diseases, especially those of inflammatory and infectious nature. Beneficial bacteria restore the disturbed balance of microflora, relieve pain (itching, burning, dryness) and strengthen local immunity. Special tampons can be purchased at a pharmacy or made at home.

The most popular product with a therapeutic effect and a combined composition are Ellen tampons. They contain the Lacto Naturel complex - a mixture of various strains of lactic acid bacteria and organic chemical compounds. They help restore healthy vaginal microflora, producing lactic acid, and regulate pH levels.

• The tampons are designed in such a way that the active ingredients are released only at body temperature, i.e. after insertion. It takes about 90 minutes for prebiotics and probiotics to be released. During this time, the active ingredients spread throughout the vaginal mucosa. The drug is used during several menstrual cycles, which allows for a lasting therapeutic effect.
• Main indications for use: vaginal microflora disorders, candidal vaginitis and bacterial vaginosis, itching, burning, irritation, increased vaginal discharge. Tampons come in three sizes: mini, normal and super. Each size has a certain degree of absorption, adapting to the characteristics of the menstrual cycle. It is recommended to use the smallest size and change it as often as possible. The drug is contraindicated for use in immunodeficiency and severe somatic conditions. Among the possible side effects, only toxic shock syndrome is distinguished.

You can make medicinal tampons with prebiotics yourself. There are many traditional medicine recipes for this, but it is better to consult a gynecologist before using them. You can use ready-made tampons or make them yourself. Take 40-50 cm of bandage and cotton wool, soak the cotton wool in the medicine and wrap it in a bandage. In this case, you need to leave the tip of the bandage so that the tampon can be pulled out of the vagina. Kefir and honey, sea buckthorn oil and other plant components with prebiotic properties are used as medicinal solutions. The course of treatment is individual for each patient, but on average it takes about 10 days.

Gargling with prebiotics

Seasonal colds are the most common cause of sore throat. To prevent possible complications and eliminate existing diseases, various medications are used: drops, solutions, sprays, tablets. Gargling with prebiotics is another treatment method that is most often combined with the main antiviral therapy. Beneficial bacteria accelerate the restoration of the mucous membrane and strengthen local immunity. Prebiotics are also used for dental diseases, bad breath and other problems. Let's consider the most popular of them:

• Inulin is a popular prebiotic found in many dietary supplements. This natural polysaccharide consists of fructose. It activates metabolic processes in the body, accelerates the growth of beneficial microflora and regulates blood glucose levels. This substance is found in many plants: coltsfoot, dandelion, elecampane, echinacea. Plants are used to prepare decoctions and infusions for gargling with various inflammatory processes, sore throats, colds, and viral infections. Inulin can be purchased at a pharmacy; it is available in the form of tablets and powder for making solutions.
• Seaweed extracts are a natural remedy containing iodine. Laminaria is most often used for treatment. To treat the throat, take 1 teaspoon or 25 drops of laminaria and dilute it in 250 ml of warm water. Use the resulting solution for gargling 2-4 times a day.
• Prebiotics are contained in garlic, so infusions for gargling are prepared from it. Grind two cloves, pour 250 ml of boiled water and let it brew, strain and use for gargling 2-3 times a day. The remedy helps the throat to clear itself of infection and saturates the microflora with vitamins.
• Sengara gel spray is a preparation with prebiotics and bacteriophages. It is used for halitosis, for the prevention of bacterial tonsillitis, periodontitis, periodontal disease, gingivitis and other pathologies. Its mechanism of action is based on the restoration of normal microflora. It is recommended to use daily, 1-2 sprays per day.

Prebiotic gargling is necessary if the painful sensations are caused by pathogenic microorganisms. Beneficial bacteria are effective in progressive tonsillitis, sinusitis and other lesions.

Prebiotic for face

Youth, elasticity, even color and smoothness of the face depend on normal microflora and natural composition of bacteria in the skin. Prebiotics for the face are included in many cosmetics. They improve microflora, reduce skin inflammatory reactions, make the epidermis produce more collagen and elastin. Prebiotics rejuvenate, accelerate the regeneration process, heal scratches, wounds, cracks, remove dryness.

Beneficial bacteria eliminate acne and acne disease defects. This happens due to the increase in the protective properties of the epidermis. Microorganisms normalize the skin condition and strengthen it. There are many prebiotic skin care products on the cosmetic market, let's consider the most popular ones: Angelini Barral Baby Protect series, organic cosmetics Melvita Floral bouquet line with prebiotics for young skin, Faberlic Bioeffect series with prebiotic biotin, lactobacilli and bifidobacteria.

Prebiotic cream

To improve the condition of the skin, cosmetologists recommend using creams with prebiotics. These are substrates and substances that promote the growth and strengthening of healthy microflora: lactose (milk sugar), lactic acid, inulin and others. Prebiotic cosmetics have their own pH level, favorable for the growth of beneficial bacteria.

Let's look at a popular product: night cream bio regulator from Kora.

• The cream contains the following active ingredients: inulin, oligosaccharide, yarrow, almond and soybean oils, sage, violet, avocado and other substances. Suitable for combination and oily skin during night rest. Ideally eliminates the effects of fatigue and negative impact of external irritants.
• Natural prebiotics are extracted from sugar beet and chicory root. They restore balance, increase resistance to external factors, relieve irritation and redness. Apply a small amount of cream to cleansed skin of the face and neck. A lasting cosmetic effect is observed after 2 months of regular use.

This cosmetic product is recommended for use from 25-30 years of age.

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Tonic bark with prebiotics

The tonic Kora with prebiotics is perfect for oily and combination skin. The product contains phytoextracts, lactulose, salicylic acid, oak bark, panthenol, biosulfur, allantoin, violet extract, calendula and sage. These ingredients restore a healthy balance of microflora, suppress the proliferation of bacteria that provoke inflammatory reactions, dry and moisturize.

According to the manufacturer's description, using the tonic for a month allows you to achieve the following results:

• Replenishing water balance after washing, moisturizing.
• Minimizing irritation and inflammation, healing wounds and cracks.
• Evens out skin tone and regulates sebum secretion.
• Mattifying effect and pore tightening.

The product is intended for morning and evening use. It is applied to the face and neck with light movements. It has a light aroma, is quickly absorbed, does not dry or tighten the skin, does not leave greasy or sticky.

Sebobalance mask with prebiotic

The sebobalance mask with prebiotic is perfect for problematic, combination and oily skin. This product has absorbent, tightening and astringent properties. It regulates the secretion of sebaceous glands, suppresses the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms that cause acne, relieves inflammation, prevents the appearance of blackheads and protects the skin from irritating factors.

The clay mask contains the following components: inulin, alpha-glucan oligosaccharide, oak bark, chamomile, sage, succinic acid, allantoin, corn oil, betaine. Succinic acid is a powerful antioxidant, neutralizes free radicals, restores elasticity, refreshes color and enhances cellular respiration. Allantoin softens keratinized areas, removes dead cells, prevents clogged pores, and soothes.

A white mask with a loose structure and a light cosmetic aroma. It is recommended to use it 1-2 times a day for 15-20 minutes, apply both to the entire face and locally, for example, to acne. The product is gradually absorbed and dries, slightly tightening the skin. With regular use, it dries pimples, evens out skin tone, relieves redness and irritation, and tightens pores.

Bio tonic with prebiotics

Cosmetics with beneficial microorganisms help restore the skin's microflora and boost its immunity. Bio tonic with prebiotics has normalizing and strengthening properties for the epidermis. Effectively relieves itching, swelling, dryness and irritation. Ideal for people with both problematic and healthy skin.

• ChocoLatte Bio Tonic with Prebiotics for Hair Growth

A product for hair health and nutrition. It has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, revitalizes hair and removes toxins. Contains vitamin B, burdock and rosemary hydrolate, and a complex of beneficial bacteria. Activates hair follicle growth, stops hair loss, relieves inflammation, dryness and irritation of the skin, protects hair from ultraviolet radiation, and gives it a lively look. The product is available in a 100 ml spray bottle.

• Avalon Organics Lavender Luminosit – Facial Toner with Lavender and Prebiotics

A natural moisturizing product with soothing and softening properties. It has a beneficial effect on the skin, nourishes it, improves tone and color. It contains the following components: aloe juice, plant extracts (lavender, cucumber, echinacea, chamomile, green tea, olive, kombucha), wheat bran glycosides, natural oils (lavender, lime, lemon, rose hips), salicylic acid and others. Before applying, the skin must be cleaned of dirt and thoroughly dried. For application, it is better to use a cotton swab, treat not only the face, but also the neck. The product is available in a volume of 237 ml.

Pharmacodynamics

Prebiotics affect the intestinal microflora by increasing the number of beneficial anaerobic bacteria and reducing potentially dangerous microorganisms. Their pharmacodynamics are associated with the impact on the gastrointestinal ecosystem through stimulation of the immune mechanisms of the mucous membranes through antagonism and competition with potentially dangerous pathogens. It is this mechanism of action that provokes the development of a large number of positive reactions. Including a reduction in the symptoms of dysbacteriosis, which is one of the main indications for the use of substances that stimulate the growth of healthy intestinal microflora.

Prebiotic substances reduce the risk of developing malignant diseases of the colon. This occurs due to the suppression of the activity of certain bacterial enzymes that affect the level of procarcinogens. The relationship, that is, the symbiosis between the microflora and its host is achieved through the regular use of certain pharmacological agents or through dietary nutrition.

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Pharmacokinetics

The components included in prebiotics do not enter the systemic bloodstream and are not absorbed from the intestinal lumen. The pharmacokinetics of bacteria depends on their form: dry, live, liquid, sorbed. Dry chemical organic compounds (tablets, capsules, various milk mixtures, cereals and dietary supplements) begin to act 1-4 hours after use, while the therapeutic effect is achieved within 6-8 hours. Absorbed drugs have similar pharmacokinetic characteristics. Liquid and live prebiotics do not require time for activation, so they begin to work immediately after use.

The drugs create a favorable environment for the growth of normal microflora, but do not affect the metabolic activity of beneficial bacteria in the intestine. They provoke a local or systemic response of the immune system, strengthen it and regulate the digestion process. It is excreted mainly with feces, can break down into enzymes and metabolites.

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Dosing and administration

Every healthy person gets all the necessary substances from food. Fresh vegetables, fruits, dairy products and cereals, rich in microelements, vitamins and minerals, fully satisfy the body's needs.

But for certain diseases, proper nutrition alone is not enough, so special means are prescribed to maintain immunity or restore intestinal microflora. How to take prebiotics depends on their form of release. As a rule, this is 3-4 times a day during meals. Treatment lasts until the patient's condition is fully restored.

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Use prebiotics during pregnancy

To combat constipation, various digestive disorders and maintain a healthy intestinal environment, it is recommended to use prebiotics during pregnancy. The benefits of such microelements are explained by the changes occurring in the female body. Due to the jump in hormone levels, the microflora of not only the intestines, but also the vagina is disrupted, causing thrush, dysbacteriosis and other unpleasant conditions. Prebiotics strengthen local immunity and eliminate disorders.

According to recent studies, beneficial microorganisms reduce the risk of allergies in children. This is due to the fact that bifidobacteria in the mother's body act as modifiers of immunity in the fetus. Prebiotic substances can be obtained from food or purchased special preparations. Despite all the benefits of microelements, it is better to consult a gynecologist before using them.

Contraindications

The only contraindication to the use of prebiotics is individual intolerance to a certain substance or product. Particular attention should be paid to the composition of pharmacy prebiotic complexes. In case of hypersensitivity to the components included in their composition, they are contraindicated. Such drugs are prescribed with caution to patients with diabetes mellitus, while preference should be given to substances from the fructose-oligosaccharide group.

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Side effects prebiotics

The risk of developing side effects of prebiotics depends on their composition and compliance with the rules of use. In isolated cases, patients experience increased gas formation, stool disorders and painful symptoms from the gastrointestinal tract.

If the prebiotic contains yeast products, the risk of side effects increases. This is due to the fact that some spore bacteria are dormant, but when some strains are activated, mild toxic reactions are possible. Adults tolerate this normally, but children may experience allergic rashes and dysbacteriosis.

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Allergy to prebiotics

Most often, allergies to prebiotics are encountered by small children who take dry mixtures with artificial or combined feeding. This is due to the fact that the child's immune system is not sufficiently formed at the time of introducing food. Therefore, due to the entry of beneficial bacteria into the body, it begins to produce antibodies that provoke allergic reactions.

Unpleasant symptoms may be associated with immaturity of internal organs and insufficient production of enzymes necessary for digestion and assimilation of products. Also, do not forget about hereditary predisposition. If one of the parents has an intolerance to certain types of prebiotics, then this may also be observed in the child. As for allergies to prebiotics in adults, this is extremely rare.

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Overdose

The human body contains many microorganisms that need constant nourishment, which is provided by prebiotic substances. They do not have a systemic effect and do not attach to the intestinal epithelium, so their excess settles in the intestinal lumen and is excreted from the body. An overdose of prebiotics is impossible even with their long-term use.

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Interactions with other drugs

The possibility of interaction of prebiotics with other drugs should be controlled by a doctor. Their use improves the absorption of calcium, increasing the strength and density of bones. Normalizes the synthesis of bile acids and the level of cholesterol in the blood. Simultaneous use with magnesium, iron and zinc promotes their better absorption.

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Storage conditions

Since prebiotic substances come in different forms, their storage conditions are different. If we consider dry milk or milk-free formulas for children, which are produced in tin cans, the recommended storage temperature should not be higher than 25 °C. They should be kept in a dry place, protected from light and moisture, with limited access for children. These recommendations also apply to tablet microelements, various syrups and capsules.

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Shelf life

Prebiotics are chemical organic compounds that act as an excellent environment for the growth of beneficial bacteria. The shelf life of these substances is determined by their form of release and composition. Natural microelements contained in plant foods should be consumed raw. That is, vegetables and fruits rich in beneficial bacteria are best not subjected to heat treatment. As for drugs, on average, their shelf life is 24-36 months from the date of manufacture and subject to storage rules.

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