Bifidobacteria are gram-positive bacteria that are naturally found in the human digestive system. They are an important part of intestinal microflora and play a vital role in preserving the health. Bifidobacteria help with the food digestion, the absorpition of nutrients and strengthening the immune system and the prevention of the growth of harmful bacteria.
Numerous studies have shown that honey can have a positive influence on the growth of bifidobacteria. Honey is a rich source of probiotics, which have a nutritional value that support the growth and the activity of useful bacteria in the intestines. Probiotics in honey include fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and galactooligosaccharides (GOS).
Action mechanisms:
- Probiotic effect: FOS and GOS in honey serve as food for bifidobacteria, supporting their growth and propagation.
- Antibacterial effect: Honey has antibacterial properties that can prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in the intestines by creating a more favorable surroundings for bifidobacteria.
- Stimulation of the immune system: Honey can stimulate the immune system and increase the production of antibodies, which can help fight against harmful bacteria.
Studies and evidence:
- One study has shown that the consumption of honey by infants during 12 weeks brings to an increase of bifidobacteria in the intestines and an improvement of the intestinal microflora.
- Another study has shown that consumption of honey by adults with cronical constipation leads to decrease of symptoms of constipation and increase in the number of bifidobacteria in the intestines.
- There are plenty of other studies that confirm the positive influence of honey on the growth of bifidobacteria and the health of intestinal microflora.
Conclusion:
Availbale evidence shows that honey can have a positive influence on the gowth of bifidobacteria and health of the intestinal microflora. The consumption of honey can be beneficial for maintaining the health of the digestive system and strengthening the immune system.
Additional information:
- The effect of honey on intestinal microflora: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9367972/
- Honey and probiotics: https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/what-are-probiotics
- Prebiotics and bifidobacteria: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/probiotics/faq-20058065
- The effect of honey on the growth and acid production of acid Bifidobacterium spp. in the human intestine: in vitro comparison with the commercial oligosaccharides and inuline: Effect of honey on the growth of and acid production by human intestinal Bifidobacterium spp.: an in vitro comparison with commercial oligosaccharides and inulin – PubMed (nih.gov)
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