Our microbial “lodgers” – an incredible and exciting topic. And so, among other things, we clarify the question of what the possible cause of incorrect colonization with germs can be, how to deal with it and how this can influence our immune system and our health.
In symbiosis with positive and negative germs
It is well known that our body is colonized by 10 times more germs than body cells. We live in a symbiosis that is vital for both sides. If we give the beneficial germs their rightful place and look after them, there is no room for potential pathogenic germs. They not only ward off unwanted germs and thus their toxins, but also help us to metabolize nutrients and thus absorb vital vitamins and minerals.
This microbial colonization of our body, i.e. the entirety of microorganisms, is referred to in technical jargon as the microbiome. A possible shift in this microbiome, for example in the gut, can in turn be the cause of allergic tendencies or even severe allergies. A permanent shift in the microbiome can even weaken the immune system and/or cause chronic illnesses. However, it is important not to panic unnecessarily. However, it should show how important a healthy microbial flora is for the immune system and the body’s health. It is therefore all the more important to always look after yourself and your well-being.
What can I do?
Let’s stay with the intestines and the intestinal flora, where diet naturally plays a decisive role. A very high-sugar and acidic diet shifts the pH value, for example. This has a decisive influence on the intestinal flora and the colonization of germs. This is because every germ has a habitat in which it feels particularly comfortable and thrives. Conversely, this means that if the pH value shifts and “positive” germs no longer feel comfortable or can no longer reproduce optimally, the functions that are important for the body can no longer be performed to the same extent. In the worst case scenario, these are displaced by “pathogenic” germs. To counteract this, experts often recommend food supplements containing probiotics, i.e. bacteria that support the intestinal flora or, in the best case, even rebuild it. Alternatively, antibiotics are also prescribed to counteract pathogenic germs and restore healthy intestinal flora. However, this should always be discussed with an expert.
The importance of pH and skin health
Let’s take another look at the pH value, because with regard to our skin, it is just as important to keep this influence on the microbiome in mind when cleansing the skin. This is because cleansers are often alkaline, i.e. they have a high pH value. However, our skin naturally has a rather acidic pH value (between 4.9-5.5), even if this can vary slightly from person to person. When cleansing the skin with an alkaline cleanser, the pH value is therefore shifted – resulting in a rather drying effect on the skin. Products that promote the physiological pH value should then be used to restore the skin’s moisture balance. Cleansers with a skin-like pH value between 5.0 – 5.5 offer an alternative here.
Sounds pretty scientific, but it is worth getting more product information on this to avoid the problems directly. For example, products can be used which, like probiotics, support the “positive” germs and can even suppress or combat the “pathogenic” ones, such as care products with the microalgae active ingredient spiralin. The combination with moisturizing and nourishing components promotes healthy or regenerates damaged skin flora. It took 10 years of research to elicit this key to the natural active ingredient Spiralin® from nature.
If you have any questions or exciting suggestions, please write to us at info@ocean-pharma.de
