During aging, the composition of the gut microbiota may become unstable, leading to an imbalance in gastrointestinal bacteria, a condition known as dysbiosis. Compared to the general adult population, the gut microbiota of the elderly often contains lower quantities of health promoting bacteria such as lactic acid bacteria. These changes in the intestinal microbiota may lead to dysfunction in the digestive system; many elderly people suffer from frequent episodes of gastrointestinal discomfort such as diarrhea and/or constipation.
Changes in the gut microbiota may also lead to an unbalanced immune system, which could compromise its functioning and lead to an increased risk of various conditions. A low-grade inflammation is very common in the elderly, and this may predispose them to secondary complications including cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
More than 20 million European women and men over the age of 50 are diagnosed with osteoporosis1 each year. The condition causes more than 8.9 million fractures annually—a rate of one fracture every three seconds.1 One in three women and one in five men over the age of 50 will experience this type of fracture.
Many elderly people are aware of the health challenges that come with age, and actively seek products to help them retain their health and freedom. As the proportion of elderly people in the general population continues to grow, promoting lifelong health and mobility will benefit not just individuals, but also society as a whole.
Products that support digestive wellbeing and promote immune health will continue to interest seniors, whether they suffer from gastrointestinal discomfort, are prone to catching infections, or simply wish to stay healthy and alert.
Most seniors are also aware that age increases their risk of sustaining fractures. Women are especially concerned about the changes that occur after menopause. Some understand the importance of vitamin D and calcium, but most don’t realize that increasing their intake of these nutrients will have little effect unless they suffer from a deficiency. Novel solutions, such as probiotics, may offer a compelling way to help maintain strong bones.
1. The International Osteoporosis Foundation
Probiotic supplementation has been extensively studied and shown to improve digestive wellbeing and support gut health. Many studies have also shown the positive impact of clinically relevant probiotics on intestinal microbiota during aging, including support for bacterial diversity. This diversity may positively affect the immune system.
As we grow older, bone resorption exceeds formation and the risk of osteoporotic fractures increases. Osteomicrobiology describes the relationship between gut microbiota, the immune system, and bone structure. Probiotic bacteria have been shown to support normal inflammatory responses, which when elevated have been coupled to increased bone resorption.
Probi® offers a comprehensive portfolio of probiotics, which may support a well-balanced, diverse intestinal environment that benefits the gastrointestinal tract throughout aging. Appropriately balanced gut microbiota is essential to a functioning, healthy immune system. Probi has several offerings aimed at improving senior health, including strains backed by extensive clinical studies, and specially selected single or multi-strain formulas.
Probi Digestis®, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 299v (LP299V®), is the most studied strain of L. plantarum and one of the most studied probiotic strains in the world. Conclusive results from repeated studies in humans show improved digestive health and significantly decreased gastrointestinal discomfort. With Probi Digestis®, consumers feel the difference. Learn more
Probi® Osteo is a probiotic bone health concept based on the combination of three strains. It has been studied in both preclinical and clinical settings, and shown to support the normal processes of bone. Learn more
Probi Defendum® is a clinically studied probiotic concept consisting of a combination of the strains Lactiplantibacillus plantarum HEAL9 (HEAL9™) and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei 8700:2. The efficacy and safety of Probi Defendum® have been investigated in multiple state-of-the-art clinical trials. Learn more
Probi Plantarum HEAL9 is a single-strain probiotic concept clinically shown to support immune function in those who most need it, including members of an ageing population.
Probi Plantarum 6595 is a single-strain probiotic concept studied in multiple pre-clinical and clinical trials, which have shown support for immune and digestive health in vulnerable populations. Probi Plantarum 6595 offers support when it is needed most.
Single or multi-species blends of carefully chosen probiotic strains have been formulated to support a healthy and balanced digestive and immune system throughout ageing.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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