Faecalibacterium prausnitzii is a helpful bacteria that is found within the human gut and is essential for maintaining good gut health. This bacterium plays an important role in the digestive system and is an important part of the gut microbiome.
Faecalibacterium prausnitzii is a type of bacteria that lives in the colon. It is one of the most important and common types of bacteria in the gut.
This bacterium creates a type of acid called butyrate, which helps the cells lining the colon get energy. Butyrate also helps reduce inflammation, supports our gut immune system and helps maintain our gut barrier function.1
When we have lower levels of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii in the gut, issues within the digestive system may arise. Namely, depleted levels of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii have been associated with Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.)2
Eating foods with lots of fiber like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes may help us have more of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii. 3