It is well known that many people have a vitamin D deficiency and that cholecalciferol is also known to have important effects on bone metabolism.

However, it is relatively new that intestinal bacteria are now also linked to bone strength. A research group from Nuremberg has discovered that short-chain fatty acids from bacterial metabolism have a positive effect on bone strength.

The researchers are focusing on the short-chain fatty acids propionate and butyrate, which are formed within the fermentation processes of intestinal bacteria. This means that these fatty acids are formed when food is broken down with the help of our intestinal bacteria.

These fatty acids are found in the synovial fluid, among other things, and are thought to have an important influence on the functionality of the joints. The short-chain fatty acids also provide energy, stimulate intestinal movement and have an anti-inflammatory effect.

Bone density and a high-fiber diet

As described above, a healthy, high-fiber diet changes the intestinal flora in such a way that more short-chain fatty acidsare formed. This leads to an increased concentration of short-chain fatty acids, including in the bone marrow. There, propionate ensures a reduction in bone-degrading cells (osteoclast activity), which demonstrably reduces bone resorption.

So if you want to do something good for your bones and joints, you should eat more vegetables, a bit of fruit and starchy side dishes. Soluble fibres such as pectin (e.g. in apples, citrus fruits), inulin (e.g. in onions, chicory, leeks, salsify, asparagus, artichokes, Jerusalem artichokes) or oligofructose (which is produced by the breakdown of inulin) act as bacterial food.

The problem with a high-fibre diet, however, is that it can lead to digestive problems such as constipation or flatulence. You should therefore increase the dose slowly if you have previously eaten a low-fiber diet!

It can therefore help to use a so-called prebiotic, especially at the beginning of the dietary change. Prebiotics contain exactly the soluble fiber you need to feed the good gut bacteria, which in turn promote an increase in short-chain fatty acids.

We also have such a prebiotic in our range, namely our popular GROW acacia fiber powder.

Acacia fibers for support

Acacia trees grow in the African Sahel desert, which provide the raw material for Arktis GROW. The required "tree sap" is obtained and collected by cutting into the tree bark. Gently cleaned, dried and ground, it serves us as a soluble dietary fiber to regulate digestion. Arktis Grow contains 100% pure acacia fiber (without synthetic additives) and is neutral in taste, smell and color.

It is very well tolerated and there is no annoying flatulence. This is why it is currently one of our most popular products.