What is the importance of intestinal microflora in a pregnant woman?

The colonization of the sterile gastrointestinal tract in the newborn starts immediately after birth. If a child is born in a natural way, microorganisms in the intestines of the mother get into the gastrointestinal tract of the newborn. And what happens if a child is born via caesarean section?

Colonization of the gastrointestinal tract in neonates born via Caesarean section is completely different. In these children, instead of bacteria from the mother’s digestive system, bacteria from the surface of the skin were detected. Limited diversity of bacterial microflora is found in children up to seven years old. These children are at increased risk of developing immune disorders and disorders associated with the functioning of the digestive system.

Researchers believe that the correct first contact of a baby with useful bacteria can affect the subsequent intestinal maturation, the functioning of the metabolism and immune system, and consequently, the overall health throughout life.

The correct colonization of the intestinal microflora is influenced by many factors depending on the lifestyle and decisions taken by the mother: prenatal conditions, mode of delivery, diet, age, home environment, socio-economic status, medicines used and other environmental factors. The admission to colonization of intestines by inadequate microorganisms is associated with the development of childhood diseases, which may persist also in later years – asthma, allergic diseases (atopic dermatitis, itchy skin, runny nose), systemic chronic diseases, immunological inflammatory diseases, disorders blood sugar, obesity or eczema.

How to improve microflora in the digestive system?

Early diagnosis of disorders resulting from poor intestinal bacterial flora facilitates a quick fix of the problem. A natural and easily available method is the inclusion of fermented foods in the diet (for example pickled vegetables) and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. You can also help yourself by using dietary supplements (for example DIGESTIVE+++) that provide probiotics and prebiotics that rebuild a beneficial bacterial flora in the digestive system.