NDRI scientists identify probiotics for healthy gut

Box: Role of dairy products

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-The study also promotes the use of fermented dairy products for consuming these probiotics

-This value-addition will be helpful in bringing revenue to dairy industry and farmers

Parveen Arora

Tribune News Service

Karnal, January 3

Scientists of the animal biochemistry division of the National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) have identified two indigenous strains of probiotic lactobacillus and characterised them.

Based on the study on human intestinal cells and experimental mice, scientists claim these probiotics are helpful in healthy aging. They claimed both probiotics had the potential to increase immunity during aging and combating allergy in newborns by keeping the gut healthy.

As per the scientists, these probiotics would be used in making food supplements in coming days, which would help humans overcome gut diseases.

A team of scientists led by Dr Rajeev Kapila, principal scientist, spent around six-years on two projects to establish the role of these two Indian-origin probiotic strains.

There has been a rampant increase in health problems, especially related to gastrointestinal tract, due to changing food habits and pollution. Irrational use of antibiotics has further increased prevalence of such complications, increasing the cost of treatment. These affect gut, where almost every disease begins, and are frequently associated with leakiness in intestinal barrier that results in health disorders. “Keeping in view the diseases associated with leaky gut, the NDRI worked for six-years and identified two indigenous strains of probiotics, which are helpful in keeping the gut healthy,” said Dr Manmohan Singh Chauhan, director, NDRI.

About the functioning, Dr Kapila said the probiotic strains reinforced the tight junctions present between intestinal cells. The daily supplements of these probiotic lactobacilli improved the immunity of the elderly.”

“We have conducted a study on mice and human cells. We have found that the probiotic strains ensure healthy guts,” he said.