Nowadays, it’s not uncommon to hear about the benefits of having healthy bacteria in your body, and the list of benefits from having a healthy colony of bacteria living within us is growing. Even mainstream media outlets have featured major stories on the benefits of the microbiome, and its importance in staying healthy by helping us fight off disease. While some people might be repulsed to think that we have a colony of microorganisms living inside of us and on our skin, the benign bacteria that we carry not only helps protect us, but also helps keep us healthy. In fact, the helpful bacteria that we carry are our first line of defense against harmful pathogens, which is the case with probiotics for sinus infections!
Recently, researchers from Vanderbilt University and the Forsyth Institute discovered that a harmless bacterium species that can be found within our nose, and on our skin, can actually help inhibit the growth of a pathogen that can cause middle ear infections, as well as pneumonia. Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae); a pathogen that often leads to pneumonia, middle ear infections, sinusitis, as well as meningitis; is stopped dead in its tracks by the harmless bacterial species Corynebacterium accolens (C. accolens). In addition, it was also discovered that this good bacterium is able to inhibit pathogen growth by releasing antibacterial fatty acids through the triacylglycerol’s, which can be found on the surface of the skin.
This new discovery is an excellent indicator that the use of probiotics, or healthy bacteria, could very well could be the future of treating chronic sinus problems, as well as other health conditions. We are starting to discover that our microbiome is not just about the gut, but also pertains to other areas of our body as well. In fact, Lactobacillus sakei; a species of bacteria that is used to make fermented foods and beverages such as kimchi and sake; is a natural species that actually resides in our nose! It was also discovered that many patients who suffer from chronic sinusitis are lacking in this particular type of bacteria. This discovery helps shed more light on the connections that exist within us and among the diverse bacteria in our microbiome, and as a result, will help pave the way for future research. In the meantime, you can colonize your gut with good bacteria by taking good probiotics for sinus infections. You can also get a healthy dose of probiotics for sinus infections by incorporating these fermented foods and drinks into your diet.
• Sauerkraut
• Tempeh
• Miso
• Yogurt
• Kefir
• Kimchi
• Kombucha
Frequently Asked Questions
Probiotics, or healthy bacteria, help inhibit the growth of harmful pathogens in the sinuses by maintaining a balanced microbiome. Specific good bacteria like Corynebacterium accolens have been found to stop harmful bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, which is linked to sinus infections, from growing. This suggests that probiotics might be an effective natural treatment option for chronic sinus issues.
Corynebacterium accolens is a harmless bacterium naturally found in the nose and on the skin that can inhibit the growth of pathogens like Streptococcus pneumoniae, which cause sinus infections and other illnesses. It releases antibacterial fatty acids that stop the harmful bacteria from thriving, contributing to sinus health.
Lactobacillus sakei is a beneficial bacterial species that naturally resides in the nose and is known for its role in fermented foods. Research indicates that many patients with chronic sinusitis often lack this bacteria, suggesting that replenishing it through probiotics or diet could help restore a healthier nasal microbiome and reduce sinus inflammation.
Yes, incorporating fermented foods such as sauerkraut, tempeh, miso, yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and kombucha into your diet can increase your intake of beneficial probiotics. These probiotics support the microbiome in various parts of the body, including the sinuses, and may contribute to preventing or alleviating sinus infections by promoting healthy bacteria.
Recent studies emphasize that the microbiome isn't limited to the gut but also plays a critical role in other body areas like the sinuses and skin. Discoveries such as the protective function of nasal bacteria against pathogens highlight potential new treatment avenues for sinus infections and other illnesses, expanding the understanding of how microbiomes contribute to overall health.
Probiotics inhibit harmful bacteria through mechanisms like releasing antibacterial compounds. For example, Corynebacterium accolens produces antibacterial fatty acids by breaking down triacylglycerols on the skin's surface, which suppresses pathogens like Streptococcus pneumoniae from growing. This natural inhibition helps maintain a healthy nasal environment and prevents infections.