What is gut microbiota and how plant oils affect it

Medical research has proven that proper gut function directly affects overall body tone, as well as general health and wellbeing. Approximately 70% of immune cells are located in the small and large intestine, helping regulate the body’s response to external stressors, viruses and bacteria.
Gut health is essential not only for digestion but also for supporting all organs and systems. In this context, maintaining a balanced intestinal microbiota (also called microflora) is becoming increasingly important. It consists of a variety of microorganisms that inhabit the human gut and perform a number of vital functions.

Main functions of gut microbiota

Large-scale studies such as the European «MetaHIT» project and the American «Human Microbiome Project (HMP)» revealed that the dominant microorganisms in gut microflora belong to the Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes phyla. They are involved in:

• Digestion – help break down complex carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, enabling proper nutrient absorption;
• Vitamin production – primarily B vitamins and vitamin K, which support cardiovascular and excretory systems;
• Protection against pathogens – «beneficial» bacteria suppress the growth of harmful or conditionally pathogenic microbes and prevent them from penetrating intestinal mucosa;
• Regulation of immune response – the microbiota «trains» the immune system, forming a neutral reaction to harmless antigens and facilitating quick production of antibodies against infections and viruses;

In essence, the human body lives in symbiosis with gut bacteria: it provides them with nutrients, and they, in return, perform essential life-supporting functions.

How plant oils support gut microbiota health

A balanced diet plays a crucial role in maintaining gut health, and cold-pressed plant oils are an important part of it. They are rich in unsaturated fatty acids (omega), vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds that support microorganisms in gut microflora.

Regular consumption of high-quality plant oils helps to:

• Prevent constipation (most oils have a mild laxative effect);
• Enhance intestinal peristalsis in both small and large intestine;
• Stimulate bile production necessary for fat breakdown;
• Reduce bloating and colic due to light antispasmodic action;
• Improve vitamin absorption (contain vitamin E which supports glycogen storage);
• Prevent Helicobacter pylori infection thanks to antioxidants found in plant fats;

It’s incorrect to say that one cold-pressed oil is universally better than others for gut microbiome health. Each oil carries unique benefits due to its specific chemical composition.

Flaxseed oil – extremely rich in omega-3, essential for butyrate production, which nourishes colon cells.

Pumpkin seed oil – contains chlorophyll with powerful anti-inflammatory properties and curbs putrefactive processes in the intestines. Also contains cucurbitin, which acts against intestinal parasites.

Black cumin seed oil (Nigella sativa) – features thymoquinone that not only suppresses Helicobacter pylori but also reduces inflammation, helping prevent irritable bowel syndrome.

CraftOil raw plant oils – feed your gut the right way

CraftOil (producer of healthy raw plant oils) offers an exceptional and constantly expanding range of products. On our website, you can order: fresh pumpkin seed oil, flaxseed oil, black cumin oil (kalonji), hemp seed oil, hazelnut oil, castor oil and more.

All oils are pressed only after you place your order, immediately bottled in dark glass bottles and sealed on professional equipment. We ship across all regions of Ukraine and Europe, guaranteeing premium taste, aroma and top-quality standards.

To explore our products or place an order, simply leave a request on our website.