Bella Adams
While reading an article on Facebook about age-related changes in gut microbiota and its role in the aging process, I came across an interesting explanation of the positive impact of a calorie-restricted diet on life expectancy and health.
Based on the research, it has been shown that the so-called calorie restriction – that is, a diet with limited calories but a complete composition – leads to an increase in the number of microflora strains associated with longevity and a simultaneous decrease in the number of bacteria that accelerate aging. Based on this, it is assumed that if the composition of intestinal bacteria is modified in some way, using probiotics, for example, it is possible to achieve a permanent state in the body similar to that of a low-calorie diet, and thus improve health and life expectancy.
Studies show that in older people, probiotic-supported gut microflora leads to a reduction in the presence of pro-inflammatory molecules, the accumulation of which is typical in aging and is associated with the development of most diseases of old age.
In addition, by breaking down complex carbohydrates, increasing antioxidant properties, and synthesizing B vitamins, bacteria regulate fat accumulation. There is even evidence that the composition of the microflora of thin and obese people is different, and when it is transplanted from thin to obese people, a therapeutic effect has been recorded.
There is evidence that gut bacteria influence our eating behavior. For example, scientists have found that butyrate, one of the metabolic products of bacteria, affects the functioning of brain neurons. There is evidence that microflora suppresses appetite by reducing the production of hunger hormones (e.g., neuropeptide Y) in the hypothalamus (the brain center for controlling the activity of internal organs) or by forming compounds identical to the satiety hormone leptin.
Why am I mentioning this information? The point is that by maintaining a healthy gut microbiota, it will be easier for us to maintain optimal body weight, reduce the risk of chronic inflammation and neurodegenerative diseases, which is inevitable with age, and thus live healthier and longer. And it won’t take much effort. You just need to take care of a sufficient amount of dietary fiber (whole grains, vegetables, fruits), fermented dairy products (yogurt, yogurt, sourdough vegetables) and use antibiotics (of course, as prescribed by a doctor). Because back in 1903-1908
Nobel laureate Ilya Mechnikov scientifically proved the connection between microflora and health and longevity.
