Virtually everyone is now aware that antibiotics can be life-saving. But these have a significant disadvantage. Antibiotics kill bacteria indiscriminately. In addition to pathogenic strains, beneficial bacteria that live in the intestinal tract and are essential for health are also destroyed. Taking antibiotics can permanently alter the natural balance in the gastrointestinal tract and have long-lasting harmful effects on health. Fortunately, there are many ways to restore intestinal flora after ingestion. We have summarized the three most important phases of effective intestinal cleansing for you.
1. First, the intestines must be cleansed
One of the most important tasks is cleansing the intestines with fiber. Beneficial bacteria in the intestines prefer to feed on soluble fiber. Although our body cannot metabolize them, they stimulate digestion and clean the intestines properly. The food fibers are not broken down by intestinal bacteria, but rather fermented. This fermentation process primarily produces short-chain fatty acids, which serve as fuel for the cells in the intestinal mucosa.
Here are some high-fiber foods that support gut health:
Whole grain cereal products
asparagus
Artichokes
Zucchini
Mushrooms
Kale
Onions
Garlic
legumes
Nuts and seeds
sweet potatoes
Bananas
Granny Smith apples
A proven natural remedy for digestive problems are linseed and psyllium, also known as psyllium. The fiber and omega-3 fatty acids are mainly found in the seed coat. That's why the effect is more intense if the seeds are crushed, ground or taken in powder form. The experts at BioProphyl also rely on this basic componentfor the first phase of your intestinal treatment.For an optimal synergy effect, they have combined the psyllium husk powder with other natural digestive aids such as chlorella algae, medicinal herbs and vitamins. Your natural dietary supplement also has the advantage of being allergen-free, gluten-free, lactose-free, vegetarian and vegan.
2. Supplying good bacteria
As soon as the intestines are relieved, the second phase of intestinal cleansing can begin. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that occur naturallyin fermented foodshappen. They must be consumed daily to restore the microbial balance in the gastrointestinal tract. This can be achieved with fermented foods and probiotic supplements.
Here are some fermented foods to include in your diet:
yogurt
Buttermilk
Kefir
Borscht
Sauerkraut
Kimchi
Miso
Natto
Kombucha
3. The intestinal barrier needs to be strengthened
Taking antibiotics over a long period of time can have a negative effect on the protective mucous membrane of the intestine. As a result, it becomes difficult for beneficial bacteria to attach to the intestinal wall. The destruction of the protective mucous membrane exposes the intestinal wall to the effects of harmful bacteria, yeasts such as Candida albicans and other pathogens. This leads to reduced levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA) in the intestinal barrier. IgA is the most important antibody in secretions and therefore also the skin carrier of mucous membrane immunity. Symptoms of low IgA levels include inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to health problems such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, food allergies, depression, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid problems, dermatitis, etc.
Freshly pressedCabbage juiceIt may not taste particularly good, but it is a long-standing home remedy for stomach problems and can also help strengthen the intestinal wall. It contains protective mucin-like compounds and many lactic acid bacteria.
Collagen is the most important structural protein in the human body, contributing to the formation of connective tissue and “sealing” the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract. A rich source of gelatin is theBone broth. The gelatin in bone broth also contains the semi-essential amino acids arginine, glycine, glutamine and proline. The amino acidGlutaminehas a positive effect on the cells of the intestinal mucosa and is often taken as a dietary supplement.
Building intestinal flora – how long does it take?
A week-long course of antibiotics can dramatically alter the gut microbiome for a full year or longer. The time it takes for your digestion to return to health depends largely on your age, lifestyle and diet. If you follow all the tips for building intestinal flora with iron discipline, you can make great progress in just a few weeks. For others it may take a little longer. A thorough intestinal cleansing is usually carried out for 8 to 10 weeks. After taking antibiotics, an 8-week course would be optimal. It is important to be patient and understand that a healthy gut plays a crucial role in the immune system.
