Postbiotics

Postbiotics are bioactive compounds that are produced by probiotics, i.e. beneficial bacteria, during their life cycle in the intestine. They are produced after the fermentation of food components by these microorganisms. Postbiotics include a variety of substances, including short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), enzymes, polysaccharides, cell wall components, and even bacterial fragments. These compounds play an essential role in gut health and overall well-being.

What are postbiotics?

Postbiotics are the end product of the metabolic activity of probiotics in the gut. Metabolic activity refers to all the chemical reactions in an organism’s cells that contribute to the maintenance of life, including the conversion of nutrients into energy, the building of molecules and the elimination of waste. When probiotics (such as lactic acid bacteria) ferment fibre and other nutrients in the gut, various substances known as postbiotics are produced. The most common postbiotics include

• Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs): These are produced from the fermentation of dietary fibre and include butyrate, acetate and propionate. SCFAs play a crucial role in the energy supply of intestinal cells and contribute to the maintenance of the intestinal barrier.
• Enzymes: Various enzymes that aid in digestion and have antimicrobial properties.
• Polysaccharides: These complex sugars can have anti-inflammatory properties and modulate the immune response.
• Cell wall components and bacterial fragments: These can activate immune cells in the gut and potentially help regulate the immune system.

Health benefits of postbiotics

1. Gut health and barrier function: Postbiotics, especially SCFAs such as butyrate (short-chain fatty acid), help strengthen the intestinal barrier by stimulating the production of mucus and supporting the integrity of intestinal cells. This can help prevent harmful microorganisms from entering the body.
2. Anti-inflammatory effect: Many postbiotics have anti-inflammatory properties. SCFAs such as butyrate and propionate can reduce inflammation in the gut and other parts of the body, which can be particularly beneficial in inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis.
3. Immunomodulation: Postbiotics play an important role in regulating the immune system. They can influence the activity of immune cells such as macrophages and T-cells, which helps to strengthen the immune response against infections while preventing excessive inflammation.
4. Metabolism and weight management: Some postbiotics have positive effects on metabolism and can help reduce the risk of obesity and metabolic disorders. SCFAs, which are produced by the fermentation of dietary fibre, help to regulate appetite and energy levels.
5. Mental health: There is growing evidence in studies that postbiotics play a role in the gut-brain axis by influencing the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which can have an impact on mood and overall well-being.

Difference: probiotics vs. prebiotics vs. postbiotics

• Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when taken in sufficient quantities, provide health benefits, particularly by improving gut flora.
• Prebiotics are indigestible fibres that promote the growth and activity of probiotics in the gut.
• Postbiotics, on the other hand, are the active substances produced by probiotics and directly provide various health benefits.

Areas of application and dietary supplements

Postbiotics can be taken in the form of food supplements, but they are also found in fermented foods such as yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut and kimchi. Research in this area is growing and it is becoming increasingly clear that postbiotics play a crucial role in supporting gut health and overall wellbeing.

Current research

The science of postbiotics is developing rapidly. Numerous studies are investigating the exact mechanisms by which postbiotics exert their beneficial effects. These include studies on the role of SCFAs in the regulation of immune function and gut health, as well as the use of postbiotics in the prevention and treatment of inflammatory bowel disease and metabolic disorders.