Prebiotics: Benefits and Types

Prebiotics are substances that stimulate the growth of normal microflora of the large intestine. Consider their classification, useful properties and rules of use.

There are two main types of microelements used to restore the microflora of the body and normalize its work after long-term use of drugs, antibiotics or severe diseases. It's about probiotics and prebiotics. The first 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 growth and reproduction of bacteria of normal microflora, inhibiting pathogenic microorganisms.

Most prebiotics are found in dairy products, bread, various cereals, bananas, legumes, onions and garlic. Many store products, for example, ready-made porridges, yogurts or biscuits, are also enriched with useful bacteria, this is indicated on their label. These microelements are used in the complex therapy of bowel diseases and digestive disorders, with dysbacteriosis, flatulence, diarrhea and other painful symptoms.

What are the benefits of prebiotics?

For good work of the intestines and digestive tract, you must eat properly. Since the food in the body get useful microelements and bacteria. If this does not occur, the normal microflora is disrupted, causing various painful symptoms. To eliminate them, the use of special prebiotics is indicated.

Consider how useful prebiotics are for the functioning of the digestive tract and the general state of the body:

• Dilution of harmful mucus in the intestine and normalization of its quantity.
• Stimulation of the synthesis of vitamin B and K.
• Healing of wounds and sores on the intestinal mucosa.
• Reparative effect and restoration of microflora.
• Support for optimum acidity for the growth and life of beneficial bacteria.
• Reduction of gas production and constipation.
• Obstruction of casting of gastric juice into the esophagus.
• Antibacterial action and strengthening of immune properties.
• Increase the volume of stool and stimulate intestinal motility.
• Neutralization of the harmful effect of antibiotics and other medications on the intestinal microflora.
• Strengthen the walls of the intestine and reduce the permeability of its mucous membrane.
• Reducing the concentration of cortisol in the blood and serum cholesterol.
• Maintaining the acid-base balance in the digestive tract.
• Improvement of absorption of essential trace elements (calcium, zinc, magnesium, copper).

Very often these substances are used in combination with probiotics. This allows you to achieve 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 of the prebiotics

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

• Malignant lesions of large intestine.
• Diarrhea (acute infectious, associated with the use of antibiotics and radiation therapy).
• Skin allergic diseases.
• Acute infectious diseases (influenza, ARVI, ARI).
• Treatment and prevention of constipation in children, adults and pregnant women.
• Necrotizing enterocolitis.
• Nervous disorders.
• Metabolic disease.
• Obesity.
• Elimination of Helicobacter pylori.
• Irritable bowel syndrome.
• Hepatic encephalopathy and fatty liver.
• Inflammatory lesions of the intestine (ulcerative colitis, pouhit, Crohn's disease).
• Treatment and prevention of systemic infections.

The type of prebiotic and the duration of its use in this or that disease are selected by the attending physician.

[1], [2], [3], [4], [5],

Release form

There are two forms of release of prebiotics: dry and liquid. Dry microelements are available in the form of tablets, capsules for oral administration, vials and ampoules. Initially, only dried biomaterial was available. Organic compounds are subjected to freezing, after which they are evaporated in a vacuum space. Thanks to this, only those cells that were in a state of suspended animation remain. That is, useful 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 trace elements can be easily transported without losing their useful properties. If the beneficial bacteria are in a liquid state, they retain their properties and begin to function within 1-2 hours after application. Dry show their activity 8 hours after taking. When choosing the most effective prebiotics, it is better to give preference to liquid, especially if they are prescribed for children. As they quickly begin to act, providing therapeutic effect.

Prebiotics in tablets

A full-fledged work of the body depends on the regular receipt of nutrients and trace elements in a natural way, that is, with food. If this does not happen, then prebiotics are needed in tablets or other forms of release. Such medications are used for dysbacteriosis and other disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, which can not be cured with the help of vegetables or fruits.

Consider the most popular tableted prebiotics:

• Lactofiltrum is a vegetable sorbent with two active components: lignin and lactulose. It is used to detoxify the body and normalize the intestinal microflora. Has immunomodulatory properties.
• Stimbipid - a combined drug, which includes such components: oligofructoza, inulin, selenium, zinc, vitamins. Neutralizes the action of toxins, stops the reproduction of bacteria dangerous for the organism 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, surgeries on the digestive tract, or with malnutrition. Excellent support for immunity.

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

[6]

Prebiotic composition

There are many different in the effectiveness of the substances that make up the prebiotics. By their structure they are complex carbohydrates with a branched chemical formula. This suggests that there are no trace elements 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 fibers) - carbohydrates of plant origin: pectin, cellulose, inulin, gums. The molecules of sugars are connected in them.
• Fructose-oligosaccharides are carbohydrate substances contained in vegetables and fruits, but safe for diabetics.

In addition to the groups described above, the composition of preparations includes such food components and organic compounds as:

• Arginine
• Valine
• Glutamic acid
• Glutathione
• Inulin
• Carotenoids
• Cellulose
• Xylobiose
• Lactitol
• Lactulose
• Oligofructose
• Calcium pantothenate
• Paraaminobenzoic acid;
• Pectins
• Selenium
• Sorbitol
• Chitosan
• Eicosapentaenoic acid

The listed substances are part of dietary supplements or medications. Microelements can be part of ready-made food.

Characteristics of prebiotics

Food components that are not digested by enzymes and not digested in the upper GI tract are prebiotics. They are food for useful microflora, stimulate its growth and vital activity. The characteristics of prebiotics indicate their selective stimulation of substances useful for intestinal microflora.

In order to be called a prebiotic, the substance must have the following properties:

• Do not split and not suck in the small intestine and stomach.
• Do not affect the metabolic activity and growth of beneficial microbes in the intestine.
• Call a local or systemic response of the body, normalize the composition of microflora.

Prebiotic substances affect the immunity of the intestine, which has a beneficial effect on the body as a whole. That is why they are prescribed for infectious diseases and immunodeficiency states.

[7], [8]

Types of prebiotics

Prebiotics are low-molecular carbohydrates. Polymer molecules are linked together by beta-glycosidic bonds. In this case, the simpler the saccharide, the faster it is fermented in the gastrointestinal tract and has a bifidogenic effect. Microelements have a certain classification, which is based on the length of their chain:

• Monomeric (single-link) - show a bifidogenic effect in the mouth and esophagus.
• Dimensional - acts in the stomach and small intestine.
• Oligomeric (3-10 links) - are activated in the upper parts of the large intestine.
• Polymeric (more than 10 links) - begin to work throughout the colon.

If for a long time to take substances of a single series, this leads to the activation of microorganisms in a restricted area of the gastrointestinal tract. Other strains do not develop proportionately, so it is better to use combination preparations.

Consider the main types of prebiotics available for use:

• Clean - these products contain only useful substances. A vivid example is lactulose syrup, which is available in Lactusan, Dufalac or Normase medicines.
• Combined with enterosorbents - restore the microflora, bind and remove toxic substances from the intestine. Popular drugs: Maxilac, Lactofiltrum.

There are no other classifications, so before taking the medication, you need to know in advance the mechanism of its action.

Live prebiotics

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

• Dietary fiber (fiber) - porridge, bran, sea kale, dried fruits and fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, legumes, greens.
• Polysaccharides (lactose, lactulose) - an important substance for microflora. Contained in dairy products, but with overeating can trigger allergic reactions.
• Fructosaccharides - any fresh vegetables and fruits.
• Prebiotic insulin - removes harmful cholesterol from the body, has a therapeutic effect on the microflora, stimulates the process of metabolism, strengthens the immune system. There are in bananas, garlic, onions, chicory and wheat.

In order to get a daily dose of live prebiotics, enough to eat oatmeal with yoghurt, bran or banana. Useful trace elements are in starch (pirodecrysts), citrus and apples (pectin), tomatoes, carrots and radishes (arabinogalactan).

Dry prebiotics

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

Selectively fermented ingredients contribute to specific changes in the composition and activity of the gastrointestinal microflora, having 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: inulin, lactulose, oligofructose, oligosaccharides, galacto-oligosaccharides.

[9], [10], [11], [12]

Liquid prebiotics

Solutions and suspensions with beneficial microorganisms that have not undergone lyophilization are liquid prebiotics. They are produced in vials and ampoules for oral administration. Such solutions contain live bacteria and a substrate, which is their nutrient medium. A vivid example of such substances is yogurts with live bacteria and various bioadditives. Very often liquid prebiotics supplement with vitamins, probiotics, amino acids and other substances.

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

Prebiotics for the intestine

Any violations in the work of the gastrointestinal tract negatively affect the work of the whole organism. Prebiotics for the intestine are needed to restore microflora and strengthen local and general immunity. They are available in various forms of release: tablets, solutions, dry mixes.

• This type of nutrients are prescribed for children at the beginning of life. These are various purees and special mixtures enriched with vitamins and bacteria. Also can be used and drops: Hilak Forte, BioGaia, Entererozermina, Lactile-Kid.
• Care of the intestines is also necessary for pregnant women. For them, prescribe drugs with lactulose and fiber. In this case, these substances are better to receive in a living, natural form, that is, from products. These can be cereals, bananas, legumes, bran, garlic and onions, artichoke.

Useful bacteria are also necessary for constipation: Symbiotera, Mutoflor, vegetable fiber, Inulin, Poslabin Laktuloza and others. Such drugs are recommended for medical use.

Prebiotics after antibiotics

To treat many diseases, antibiotics are prescribed. This type of drugs destroys any bacterial agents in the body, but the disastrous effect also affects beneficial bacteria. Antibiotics suppress beneficial microflora. This is manifested as a worsening of digestion, the emergence of dysbiosis and other problems from the gastrointestinal tract.

Prebiotics after antibiotics are aimed at restoring microflora and eliminating the destructive effect of previously used drugs. They act as a feed for beneficial bacteria, thereby restoring the normal operation of the intestine. Consider the most effective substances that must be used after antibiotic drugs:

• Lactulose is a nutrient medium for saccharolytic bacteria, it enters into various mixtures and preparations to stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in children.
• Inulin - stimulates the growth of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, increases absorption of calcium, affects the cleavage of fats. It has anti-carcinogenic effect.
• Oligosaccharides (fructose, galactose) stimulate the growth of bifidobacteria, are found in breast milk in large quantities.
• Pectin - absorbs and removes toxins, toxic substances and harmful bacteria from the body.

Necessary microorganisms are contained in fermented milk products, cheese, sauerkraut, vegetables and fruits. Useful for the body are low-molecular carbohydrates, which include: pectin, lactulose, soluble dietary fiber.

Laxative prebiotics

To quickly and effectively eliminate constipation, laxative prebiotics are used. They are food components that are not digested in the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract and unchanged reach the colon, stimulating the growth of useful sour-milk microflora. Because of the laxative effect, they are recommended for pregnant women and children. This category of substances includes: inulin, lactulose and fructosaccharides.

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

The most effective laxative prebiotics:

• Lactitol is a powder for the preparation of a solution. It is used in the treatment and prevention of constipation and diseases of the large intestine. It facilitates the emptying process, softens the stool masses. With prolonged use or exceeding the recommended dosage can cause discomfort in the abdomen and swelling.
• Dufalac, Goodluck, Poslabin lactulose are preparations based on lactulose. They are used not only to treat constipation, but also to diagnose the organs of the abdominal cavity. Great for children. Lactulose improves peristalsis, softens fecal masses, increases absorption of phosphorus and calcium, causes secretion of bile in the small intestine. These drugs are not recommended for use with intestinal obstruction, lactulose intolerance, fructose, and with extreme caution in diabetes mellitus.

Prebiotics are prescribed for the treatment of acute and chronic constipation, with dysbiosis. They excrete toxins from the body, suppress the reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms. Virtually have no contraindications.

Sorbed prebiotics

Chemical organic compounds used for therapeutic and preventive purposes for correction of intestinal microflora and improvement of the immune system are prebiotics. They are absolutely safe for the human body, they are part of many natural foods. Sorbed prebiotics are useful bacteria immobilized on a sorbent. Their action is based on the ability to settle on the walls of the intestinal mucosa, sorbent and each other.

Sorbed preparations have the following properties:

• Increasing colonization of beneficial microorganisms and bacteria.
• Restoration of microflora and acceleration of reparative processes in internal organs.
• Adhesion of nutrients to the walls of the intestine.

Sorbents are necessary for the preservation of microorganisms when passing through the body into the intestine. They protect bacteria from the acidic environment of the stomach. This kind of prebiotics is more effective, since during the absorption and passage through the internal organs it retains its quantity, rapidly multiplies, having 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

Decreased immunity, the intake of antibiotics, various inflammatory or infectious diseases, stress and even hypothermia are the main causes of the violation of the vaginal microflora. During this period, there are many symptoms characteristic of dysbiosis: an increase in the number of vaginal discharge, discomfort and dryness in the area of the vulva, itching, burning and pain in the vagina. In particularly neglected cases, the disturbance 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 the bacteria that caused the disorder, restoration of the vaginal microflora and immunity of the vaginal walls.

Consider effective prebiotic drugs:

• Vaginorm-S - biopreparation with active substances: ascorbic acid, lactose. It is used to restore the vaginal biocenosis. It has a tabletted form of release, therefore it is intended for intravaginal administration. For treatment, 1 tablet is given per day, overnight for 10 days.
• Acylact is a lyophilized agent with high antagonistic activity against pathogenic and conditionally pathogenic microorganisms. It is used in gynecological practice for violations of the microflora of the vagina. Produced in the form of vaginal suppositories. Duration of treatment 5-10 days, one suppository a day before bedtime.
• Normofloriny (L, B, D) - a biocomplex composed of prebiotics, probiotics and other microorganisms useful for microflora. The drug contains lactitol, the action of which is aimed at stimulating the growth of its own protective microflora. Produced in 100 ml vials. For its use, it is recommended to use tampons soaked in medicine or to take the drug orally.

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

Tampons with prebiotics

To treat many diseases in gynecology, especially inflammatory and infectious nature, tampons with prebiotics are used. Useful bacteria restore the disturbed balance of microflora, relieve painful sensations (itching, burning, dryness) and strengthen local immunity. Special tampons can be purchased at the pharmacy or done by yourself.

The most popular remedy with healing effect and combined composition are Ellen tampons. They contain the Lacto Naturale complex - a mixture of different strains of lactic acid bacteria and organic chemical compounds. They help to restore a healthy vaginal microflora, producing lactic acid production, regulate the pH level.

• Tampons are designed in such a way that the active substances are released only at body temperature, that is, after administration. It takes about 90 minutes to release prebiotics and probiotics. During this time, active substances spread through the mucous membrane of the vagina. The drug is used during several cycles of menstruation, it allows to achieve a persistent therapeutic effect.
• The main indications for use: violation of the vaginal microflora, candidiasis vaginitis and bacterial vaginosis, itching, burning, irritation, increased discharge from the vagina. Tampons have 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 that you use the smallest size and change it as often as possible. The drug is contraindicated to use in immunodeficiency and severe somatic conditions. Among the possible side effects, only the syndrome of toxic shock is isolated.

Medical tampons with prebiotics can be done on their own. For this, there are many recipes for alternative medicine, but before using them it is better to consult a gynecologist. You can use ready-made tampons or make them yourself. Take 40-50 cm of bandage and cotton wool, moisten cotton wool in a medicine and wrap in bandage. In this case, it is necessary 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, use various drugs: drops, solutions, sprays, tablets. Rinsing the throat with prebiotics is another method of treatment that is often combined with basic antiviral therapy. Useful bacteria accelerate mucosal repair and strengthen local immunity. Prebiotic remedies are also used for dental diseases, bad breath and other problems. Consider the most popular of them:

• Inulin - a popular prebiotic, which is part of many dietary supplements. Natural natural polysaccharide consists of fructose. Activates metabolic processes in the body, accelerates the growth of useful microflora and regulates blood glucose levels. This substance is a part of many plants: mother-and-stepmother, dandelion, elecampane, echinacea. Plants are used to prepare decoctions and infusions for gargling with various inflammatory processes, sore throats, colds, viral lesions. Inulin can be purchased at the pharmacy, it is available in the form of tablets and powder for the preparation of solutions.
• Extracts of algae - a natural product with iodine content. For treatment, laminaria is often used. To treat the throat, take 1 teaspoon or 25 drops of kelp and dilute it in 250 ml of warm water. The resulting solution is used for rinsing 2-4 times a day.
• Prebiotics are found in garlic, so they make sores for gargling. Grind two chisels, pour 250 ml of boiled water and let it brew, strain and use for rinsing 2-3 times a day. The drug helps the throat cleanse the infection and saturates the microflora with vitamins.
• Sengara spray gel is a preparation with prebiotics and bacteriophages. It is used for halitosis, for the prevention of bacterial angina, paradontitis, paradontosis, gingivitis and other pathologies. Its mechanism of action is based on the restoration of normal microflora. It is recommended to apply daily, 1-2 injections per day.

Rinsing with prebiotics should be carried out if the pain is caused by pathogenic microorganisms. Useful bacteria are effective in progressive angina, sinusitis and other lesions.

Prebiotic for the face

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

Useful bacteria eliminate defects in acne and acne. This is due to an increase in the protective properties of the epidermis. Microorganisms normalize the condition of the skin and strengthen it. In the cosmetic market, a lot of prebiotic skin care products are presented, including the most popular ones: Angelini Barral Baby Protect, Organic Melvita line Floral bouquet with prebiotics for young skin, Faberlic Bioeffect with prebiotics-biotin, lactobacilli and bifidobacteria.

Cream with prebiotics

To improve the skin, cosmetologists recommend using a cream 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 has a pH level favorable for the growth of beneficial bacteria.

Consider a popular remedy: a night cream bio regulator from Cora.

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

This cosmetic product is recommended to be used from 25-30 years.

[13], [14], [15]

Tonic bark with prebiotics

For oily and mixed skin, the tonic of Cora with prebiotics is excellent. The product contains phytoextracts, lactulose, salicylic acid, oak bark, panthenol, bioser, allantoin, violet extract, calendula and sage. These ingredients restore the healthy balance of microflora, suppress the reproduction of bacteria that provoke inflammatory reactions, dry and moisturize.

According to the manufacturer's description, the use of tonic during the month allows to achieve such results:

• Replenishment of water balance after washing, moisturizing.
• Minimization of irritation and inflammation, healing of wounds and cracks.
• Color balance and regulation of sebum secretion.
• Matting effect and narrowing of the pores.

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 and does not tighten the skin, does not leave fat and stickiness.

Mask sebobalans with prebiotic

To care for the problem, combined and oily skin, the sebobalance mask with the prebiotic is excellent. This product has absorbent, vestigial and astringent properties. Regulates the secretion of sebaceous glands, inhibits the multiplication of pathogens causing acne, relieves inflammation, prevents the appearance of black dots and protects the skin from the action of irritating factors.

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

The mask is white with a loose texture and a light cosmetic scent. It is recommended to apply 1-2 times a day for 15-20 minutes, applied to the entire face, and locally, for example, on acne. The product is gradually absorbed and dries up, slightly tightening the skin. With regular application, dries pimples, smooths the skin tone, removes redness and irritation, narrows the pores.

Bio tonic with prebiotics

Cosmetic means with useful microorganisms allow to restore the microflora of the skin and increase its immunity. Bio tonic with prebiotics has normalizing and firming epidermis properties. Effectively removes itching, puffiness, dryness and irritation. Ideal for people with both problem and healthy skin.

• Bio tonic ChocoLatte with prebiotics for hair growth

The drug for health and nutrition of hair. Has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, revitalizes the hair and relieves them of toxins. Contains vitamin B, burdock and rosemary hydrolyte, a complex of beneficial bacteria. Activates the growth of hair follicles, stops their loss, removes inflammation, dryness and irritation of the skin, protects hair from ultraviolet, gives them a live appearance. The product is available in a 100 ml bottle with a nebulizer.

• Avalon Organics Lavander Luminosit - tonic for face with lavender and prebiotics

Moisturizing natural remedy with soothing and soothing properties. It has a beneficial effect on the skin, nourishes it, improves the tone and color. It includes such components: aloe juice, vegetable extracts (lavender, cucumber, echinacea, chamomile, green tea, olive, tea mushroom), wheat bran glycosides, natural oils (lavender, lime, lemon, dogrose), salicylic acid and others. . Before application, the skin needs to be cleaned of dirt and thoroughly dried. For the application it is better to use a cotton swab, to process not only the face area, but also the neck. The drug is available in a volume of 237 ml.

Pharmacodynamics

Prebiotics affect the intestinal microflora by increasing the number of useful anaerobic bacteria and reducing potentially harmful microorganisms. Their pharmacodynamics is associated with the effect on the gastrointestinal tract through stimulation of the immune mechanisms of the mucous membranes by antagonism and competition with potentially dangerous pathogens. It is this mechanism of action that provokes the production of a large number of positive reactions. Including reducing the symptoms of dysbiosis, 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 is 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.

[16], [17], [18], [19]

Pharmacokinetics

The components that make up the prebiotics do not enter the systemic circulation and are not absorbed from the intestinal lumen. The pharmacokinetics of bacteria depends on their form: dry, living, liquid, sorbed. Dry chemical organic compounds (tablets, capsules, various milk mixtures, cereals and supplements) start to work 1-4 hours after application, with the curative effect being achieved within 6-8 hours. Similar pharmacokinetic characteristics have sorbed preparations. Liquid and live prebiotics do not need time to activate, so they start working immediately after use.

Preparations 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 digestive process. It is excreted mainly with feces, can disintegrate into enzymes and metabolites.

[20], [21], [22], [23], [24],

Dosing and administration

Every healthy person gets all the necessary substances from food. Rich in microelements, vitamins and minerals, fresh vegetables, fruits, dairy products and cereals completely fill the needs of the body.

But in certain diseases, one correct nutrition is not enough, therefore, to maintain immunity or restore the intestinal microflora, special means are prescribed. How to take prebiotics depends on their form of release. Usually, it is 3-4 times a day with meals. Treatment lasts until the patient's recovery is complete.

[36], [37], [38], [39], [40], [41], [42], [43]

Use of the prebiotics during pregnancy

To combat constipation, various disorders of the digestive process and maintain a healthy intestinal environment, the use of prebiotics during pregnancy is recommended. The benefits of this kind of trace elements are explained by the changes taking place in the female body. Because of the jump in the level of hormones, the microflora of not only the intestines but also the vagina is broken, provoking thrush, dysbiosis and other unpleasant conditions. Prebiotics strengthen local immunity and eliminate disturbances.

According to recent studies, useful microorganisms reduce the risk of allergies in children. This is due to the fact that bifidobacteria in the maternal organism act as modifiers of immunity in the fetus. Prebiotic substances can be obtained from food or buy special preparations. Despite the entire benefit of trace elements, it is better to consult with a gynecologist before using them.

Contraindications

The only contraindication to the use of prebiotics is the individual intolerance of a particular substance or product. Particular attention should be given to the composition of pharmacy prebiotic complexes. When hypersensitivity reaction to the components that make up their composition, they are contraindicated. With caution, such drugs are prescribed for patients with diabetes mellitus, with the advantage to be given to substances from the group of fructose-oligosaccharides.

[25], [26]

Side effects of the prebiotics

The risk of side effects of prebiotics depends on their composition and compliance with the rules of application. In isolated cases, patients face increased gas production, stool disorder and painful symptoms from the gastrointestinal tract.

If yeast products are included in the prebiotic, the risk of side effects increases. This is due to the fact that part of the spore bacteria is in a dormant state, but activation of some strains may result in weak toxic reactions. Adults tolerate this normally, but children may experience allergic rashes and dysbacteriosis.

[27], [28], [29], [30],

Allergies to prebiotics

Most often with an allergy to prebiotics, young children who take dry mixtures with artificial or combination feeding experience a collision. This is due to the fact that the children's immune system is not sufficiently formed at the time of feeding. Therefore, due to ingestion of beneficial bacteria, it begins to produce antibodies that provoke allergic reactions.

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

[31], [32], [33], [34], [35]

Overdose

The human body contains many microorganisms that need constant make-up, in the role of which prebiotic substances act. They do not have a systemic effect and do not attach to the epithelium of the intestine, so their excess settles in the gut lumen and is removed from the body. Overdose of prebiotics is not possible even with their long-term use.

[44]

Interactions with other drugs

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

[45], [46]

Storage conditions

Since prebiotic substances have different forms of release, the storage conditions for them are different. If we consider dry milk or dairy-free mixtures for children, which are produced in tin cans, then the recommended temperature for their storage should not be above 25 ° C. They should be in a dry, sheltered from light and moisture place with limited access for children. These recommendations also apply to tablets, various syrups and capsules.

[47], [48], [49]

Shelf life

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

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