In particular, the microbiota, that is constituted by all the bacteria that live in our gut and is also considered an organ of the body, may be able to influence how well we age and what can happen from inflammations to degenerative illnesses. But it is possible to guarantee the good health of microbiota thanks to supplements, according to the latest study performed by McGill University and published at the end of May on the journal Scientific Reports, that belongs to Nature group (Westfall et al, Scientific reports, 31 May 2018).
The study analyzed the changes in the fruit flies that were fed with a combination of probiotics, substances able to nourish the microbiota and the good bacteria in the gut, and an ayurvedic herbal remedy called Triphala. The probiotics are obtained from Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus fermentum and Bifidobacteria longum spp. Infantis. The scientists observed that this diet had amazing effects by increasing the lifespan of fruit flies by 60% and by protecting them from chronic diseases and other traits of aging such as mounting insulin resistance and oxidative stress. According to the author of the research, dr Satya Prakash, the effects on humans would likely not be so dramatic but the point is that a diet that includes probiotics and triphala may promote a long and healthy life thanks to the gut-brain axis, a bidirectional communication system. This study paves the way for interesting applications to counteract in the humans diabetes, obesity, but also depression and inflammations.
