Probiotics and vitamin absorption
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Probiotics and Vitamin Absorption: Mechanisms and Evidence
Probiotics Enhance B Vitamin Absorption
Research shows that probiotics can significantly improve the absorption of several B vitamins, including B1, B3, B5, and B12. In animal studies, the combination of B vitamins and specific probiotic strains led to an increase in vitamin absorption by 14.5% to 71.2%. This effect is mainly due to changes in the gut microbiota rather than direct vitamin production by the probiotics themselves. The combination also helped repair colon damage and increased beneficial gut bacteria like Akkermansia, suggesting a synergistic effect between probiotics and B vitamins for gut health and nutrient uptake .
Probiotics Improve Absorption of Fat-Soluble Vitamins and Minerals
Clinical studies in children have found that probiotic supplementation over at least five weeks can increase blood levels of vitamins such as vitamin D and vitamin A, as well as minerals like calcium, zinc, and iron. This suggests that probiotics can enhance the body’s ability to absorb and utilize these essential nutrients, potentially improving overall health and immunity . Reviews also highlight that probiotics can positively influence the absorption and metabolism of both vitamins and minerals, supporting intestinal and metabolic well-being .
Probiotics and Vitamin D: Interactions and Gut Health
Probiotics may interact with vitamin D and its receptor (VDR) in the gut, helping to regulate inflammation and immune responses. Some studies suggest that probiotics can modulate vitamin D/VDR pathways, which are important for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome and may play a role in preventing or managing gastrointestinal diseases . In addition, probiotics have been shown to influence 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and improve calcium absorption, which is important for bone health .
Probiotics and Calcium Absorption
Certain probiotic strains, such as Lactobacillus species, have been shown to improve calcium transport and uptake in intestinal cells. These effects are achieved by modulating pathways related to vitamin D metabolism and calcium transport, as well as by strengthening the gut barrier. This suggests that probiotics could be used to support bone health by enhancing calcium and vitamin D absorption 8510.
Probiotics and Vitamin B6 Metabolism
Animal studies indicate that compound probiotics can upregulate vitamin B6 (pyridoxal) levels and influence metabolic pathways related to vitamin digestion and absorption. These changes are linked to shifts in the gut microbiome and improved intestinal health .
Probiotics Produce and Support Absorption of B Vitamins
Some probiotic and commensal bacteria can produce B group vitamins such as riboflavin, folate, and thiamine. These bacteria help optimize energy production from food and support the host’s nutritional status by making these vitamins more available for absorption 63.
Conclusion
Probiotics play a significant role in enhancing the absorption of various vitamins—including B vitamins, vitamin D, and vitamin A—as well as minerals like calcium, zinc, and iron. They achieve this by modulating the gut microbiota, supporting gut barrier function, and interacting with vitamin metabolism pathways. The combined use of probiotics and vitamins may offer greater benefits than using either alone, but more research is needed to determine optimal strains, dosages, and combinations for specific health outcomes 12345678+1 MORE.
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