Gut feelings: A strong gut microbiome for feeling good

“You are what you eat.”

The importance of gut health has been gaining a lot of attention in the last couple of years. There has been research highlighting the importance of gut health and how it contributes to the better overall health of an individual. More research is emerging, but many experts believe that we are still at the tip of the iceberg in terms of understanding the incredible role that the gut has to play in our bodies.

The gut is responsible for breaking down the food that we eat and absorbing nutrients. The trillions of microorganisms that live inside the gut are meant to help boost the immune system, help with weight management and stabilize the body’s blood sugar levels, among many other functions. These microorganisms are impacted by the foods we ingest; eating nourishing whole foods rather than processed foods can promote greater colonization and multiplication of the gut bacteria, improving overall health. Numerous studies have shown that ultra-processed foods – typically high in fat, sugar and additives like emulsifiers – can alter the gut microbiome and trigger chronic inflammation. Since the discovery of the gut microbiota’s role in health, research on how diet affects it has grown significantly.

Ultra-processed foods are industrially manufactured, highly palatable and convenient, but they often have poor nutritional value. Their consumption is especially high in high-income countries where they contribute a substantial portion of daily energy intake. As incomes rise, dietary patterns shift toward these types of foods, leading to increased rates of non-communicable diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular conditions. This rise in disease burden in wealthier nations is closely linked to both changes in diet and lifestyle, including more sedentary behaviour and urbanization.

Given the negative impact of ultra-processed foods on gut health and their association with chronic diseases in high-income countries, there is growing interest in strategies to support and restore a healthy gut microbiome. One such approach is the use of probiotics which are live microorganisms that help increase the diversity of the gut microbiome and enhance overall gut health. With rising consumer awareness of gut health’s importance, probiotics have gained popularity as a vital component of dietary supplements and functional foods. Beyond gut health, probiotics contribute to a stronger immune system.

A significant portion of the body’s immune cells lives in the gastrointestinal tract, and a healthy microbiome is essential for optimal immune function. Probiotics can enhance immune response, reduce the incidence of respiratory infections and may even help manage allergic conditions. Furthermore, emerging research suggests potential mental health benefits linked to the gut-brain axis, indicating that probiotics might help alleviate anxiety and depression symptoms. Among the companies leading this movement, BioGaia stands out due to its strong scientific foundation, innovative products and dominant market presence.

BioGaia

BioGaia AB (BIOGB SS), a Swedish biotechnology company, has positioned itself as a global leader in probiotic development, specifically in the medical-grade and pediatric segments. With over 30 years of research, BioGaia focuses on developing probiotic products based on robust scientific research. Their flagship strain, L. reuteri DSM 17938, is backed by numerous clinical studies demonstrating its effectiveness in treating infant colic, reducing diarrhea in children and improving oral health.

One of BioGaia’s key strengths is its commitment to science and partnerships with academic institutions and healthcare professionals. Unlike many supplement companies that rely on generalized claims, BioGaia ensures its probiotics are clinically tested and validated for specific health conditions. This evidence-based approach has earned the company credibility and trust among pediatricians, dentists and gastroenterologists worldwide.

Additionally, BioGaia has achieved a strong market presence through strategic global distribution. Its products are available in over 100 countries, either under the BioGaia brand or through licensing partnerships with pharmaceutical companies. This extensive reach, combined with a focus on high-quality, well-researched products, has helped BioGaia capture significant market share in the growing probiotics industry.