Gut microbiota imbalances may influence fibromyalgia
Imbalances in the intestinal microbiota could lead to development of fibromyalgia.
People with fibromyalgia seem to have higher levels of Clostridium, Bacteroides, Coprococcus and Ruminococcus, but lower levels of Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, Eubacterium, Lachnospiraceae and Firmicutes.
Microbiota changes were linked to the availability of neurotransmitters that influence pain levels. Another effect of the imbalances could be increased permeability of the lining of the intestines, stimulating the gut-brain axis immune pathway, the researchers stated. Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, a cause of intestinal permeability, has been diagnosed in 78% of people with fibromyalgia who have gastrointestinal symptoms, according to the review which is published in the International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases.
“The most feasible link between the intestinal microbiota and the etiopathogenesis of [fibromyalgia] is the gut-brain axis, which highlights the role of the vagus nerve,” the team says. “Intestinal permeability has shown a crucial role in this link, in view of the increase in absorption of pronociceptive neurotransmitters (eg glutamate) and the prevention of the absorption of beneficial precursors (eg tryptophan).”
We’ve heard about the benefits of this Bifidobacterium before. How does Bifidobacteria actually help our gut and where can we find it?
Supports digestion: helps break down and digest some carbohydrates that we can’t digest on our own, such as certain fibres.
Protects against harmful bacteria: competes with harmful bacteria for space and resources in the gut, helping to prevent the growth of pathogenic bacteria that can cause health issues.
Strengthens the gut barrier: this helps stop harmful substances from crossing into the bloodstream.
Regulates the immune system: maintains a balanced immune response.
Produces beneficial compounds: produces certain beneficial compounds, such as short-chain fatty acids, which can provide energy to the cells lining the colon and have other health-promoting effects.
Helpful natural sources of Bifidobacteria include yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, pickles, miso, tempeh, natto and fortified cereals and granola bars.
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