International Journal of Molecular Medical Science, 2025, Vol.15, No.2, 98-106 http://medscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmms 99 substances can not only maintain intestinal health but also reduce inflammation (Hills et al., 2019; Afzaal et al., 2020). These beneficial bacteria can also strengthen the intestinal protective layer and help regulate the body's immune system (Jandhyala et al., 2015; Feng et al., 2018). Harmful bacteria such as certain Escherichia coli can disrupt the balance of the flora and cause flora imbalance (Sekirov et al., 2010; Hills et al., 2019). This imbalance may trigger metabolic problems and inflammatory diseases. Harmful bacteria can produce toxins and cause inflammation, which may increase the risk of diseases such as obesity and diabetes (Tang et al., 2017; De Vos et al., 2022). 2.2 The impact of intestinal flora imbalance on health Intestinal flora imbalance (i.e., ecological imbalance) is associated with a variety of metabolic diseases and immune abnormalities. Imbalance of the microbiota may interfere with metabolism and cause diseases such as obesity and diabetes (Sekirov et al., 2010; Fan and Pedersen, 2020). The gut microbiota affects human metabolism by generating short-chain fatty acids, which are involved in the regulation of fat and blood sugar. When the microbiota is imbalanced, these regulatory mechanisms will be disrupted, leading to metabolic disorders (Fan and Pedersen, 2020; De Vos et al., 2022). Dysbiosis can also weaken immunity, making people more prone to intestinal inflammation and cardiovascular diseases (Figure 1) (Sekirov et al., 2010; Afzaal et al., 2020). The intestinal microbiota interacts with the immune system and affects the normal functioning of immune cells. Imbalance of the microbiota may cause the immune system to wrongly attack its own tissues, triggering chronic inflammation (Feng et al., 2018; De Vos et al., 2022). Figure 1 Gut microbial strains and negative health outcomes of gut microbial dysbiosis (Adopted from Afzaal et al., 2020) 2.3 Mechanisms and methods for regulating intestinal flora Improving the intestinal flora through dietary adjustments or supplementing probiotics is an important way to maintain health. A high-fiber diet can effectively change the composition of the microbiota. Short-chain fatty acids produced by the decomposition of fibers by good bacteria can reduce inflammation and protect the intestines (Hills et al., 2019; Rinninella et al., 2019). Dietary patterns rich in fruits and vegetables, such as the Mediterranean diet, are associated with a healthier microbiota structure (Rinninella et al., 2019). Supplementing probiotics is another way of regulation, achieved by taking in active and good bacteria. Probiotics such as Bifidobacteria can restore the balance of the flora and improve the intestinal condition (Afzaal et al., 2020; Siddiqui et al., 2022). They can enhance intestinal protection, regulate immune responses and reduce the risk of infection. Since everyone's microbiota base is different, it is very important to choose the appropriate type of probiotics (Hills et al., 2019; Siddiqui et al., 2022).
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