How Gut Bacteria Can Help a Sick Heart
The Global Impact of Heart Problems
Heart problems are a significant global concern, with damage to the heart muscle being a major issue. Scientists have been exploring the potential of probiotics—good bacteria—to protect the heart.
A Special Yogurt Bacteria
One type of bacteria, Lacticaseibacillus paracasei, was found in a special kind of yogurt made from yak milk. Researchers tested this bacteria on mice with heart damage caused by a strong medicine.
Remarkable Results
The mice that received the bacteria showed:
- A 14% increase in body weight
- A 19% increase in heart size
- Significant improvements in blood tests, with levels of harmful substances dropping by more than half in some cases.
- Improved heart function, including:
- Shortened time for the heart to recharge
- Reduced abnormal signals
Microscopic Improvements
Under a microscope, scientists observed:
- Less scarring in heart tissue
- Fewer dying cells
- Better energy management in heart cells
- Improved cleanup of damaged parts
Gut Bacteria Balance
The bacteria also helped balance the gut microbiome by:
- Increasing good bacteria
- Decreasing bad bacteria
The Science Behind the Benefits
Researchers discovered that the bacteria produce certain chemicals that may be responsible for these protective effects. One such chemical, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, showed protective properties when tested on heart cells in a lab.
Future Implications
This study provides valuable insights into how probiotics might help maintain heart health. It suggests that Lacticaseibacillus paracasei could be a promising candidate for new treatments. However, since the research was conducted on mice, further studies on humans are necessary.
