Probiotics and Their Role in Vegan Diets
Addressing the nutritional needs of the growing global population is one of the major challenges of the 21st century, especially given the limitations of natural resources. Currently, nearly 1 in 9 people worldwide suffer from undernourishment, primarily due to protein-energy malnutrition. The importance of a balanced diet for maintaining health has garnered significant attention from the scientific community. Numerous studies have shown that certain foods can reduce the risk of specific diseases, highlighting the vital role of diet in overall health.
This increasing awareness has led to extensive research into new natural compounds and innovations in the production of functional foods. These products are designed to offer additional health benefits beyond basic nutrition.
The trend toward functional foods underscores the need for sustainable practices in food production and consumption, particularly to meet the demands of a growing population while preserving natural resources. This shift in the food sector reflects broader societal changes toward health and well-being and necessitates continued research and exploration of innovative solutions by researchers and producers.
In this context, the growing trend of vegetarianism and the consumer inclination toward foods with high nutritional and functional values have been observed. Avoidance of animal products (such as vegetarianism and/or veganism) has become an increasing trend in modern lifestyles.
World Vegan Day, held annually on November 1st, aims to raise public awareness about the benefits of veganism for human health, animals, and the environment. A vegan diet, which is plant-based, provides many digestive health benefits, especially through the consumption of fermented and probiotic-rich foods. Probiotics, as beneficial gut bacteria, play a crucial role in maintaining overall health and improving digestive function and can be sourced from plants in vegan diets.
Probiotics have shown positive effects in alleviating issues like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), inflammation, and bloating. Combining probiotics with prebiotics, which serve as food for beneficial bacteria, is known as a "synbiotic," which has demonstrated even stronger effects in promoting gut health.
Plant-based fermented products such as coconut kefir and plant-based yogurts can provide the body with necessary probiotics and serve as suitable alternatives to dairy products. Fermented foods like tempeh, kimchi, natto, and miso are primary sources of plant-based probiotics and are ideal choices for vegans. These foods, which offer beneficial bacteria in significant quantities, help regulate the gut microbiome and are free of animal products. Studies have shown that consuming these foods not only supports digestive health but also reduces intestinal inflammation, improves digestion, and even enhances mood. These probiotic-rich foods, along with the fiber present in a plant-based diet, contribute to overall health improvement.
Given the rising awareness of the benefits of probiotics within the vegan community, the demand for suitable probiotic supplements for this group has increased. Vegan probiotic supplements are formulated to provide effective bacterial strains without any animal-derived ingredients. Probiotic strains such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, found in many supplements and plant-based fermented foods, contribute to enhanced digestive health and immune function.
The therapeutic and pharmacological effects of vegan probiotic supplements are of particular importance. Vegetarians and vegans, who avoid animal-derived products, also refrain from using medications and supplements containing gelatin. Gelatin, commonly used in capsule production, can pose limitations, especially for individuals with sensitivities. Therefore, using medications and supplements free from animal derivatives and gelatin is essential for this group. In this regard, Zist Takhmir Pharmaceutical Company has introduced FamiLact, a probiotic supplement that is free from animal-based ingredients and gelatin, effectively meeting the needs of this group while adhering to health and bioethical principles.