By Corey Schuler, PhD, FNP, CNS
Most people easily understand, at least conceptually, the relationship between probiotics and the gut microbiome. Even the connection between polyphenols as prebiotics and probiotics is relatively straight forward. However, the conduit between polyphenols and the gut microbiome is sometimes a bit more difficult to comprehend. Dietary polyphenols offer more than antioxidant activity. They are functional signaling compounds that shape the gut ecosystem, modulate metabolism, and generate health-promoting metabolites through microbial interaction.* Their impact begins in the gut but extends far beyond.*
Polyphenols are natural compounds found in colorful fruits, vegetables, herbs, teas, and cocoa. Known for their antioxidant properties, these compounds are also emerging as modulators of the gut microbiota and contributors to whole-body wellness.* Polyphenols not only interact with the gastrointestinal tract directly but also influence systemic processes through their transformation by gut bacteria.* This article explores how polyphenols and probiotics support digestive, immune, and metabolic health by partnering with the microbiome.*
Polyphenols: Poorly Absorbed, Potently Transformed
While dietary polyphenols are abundant, often consumed at levels 10 times higher than vitamin C in a typical diet, the majority are not absorbed in the small intestine. Instead, approximately 90–95% of polyphenols reach the large intestine intact, where they undergo microbial metabolism into bioavailable and biologically active metabolites.* [1,2] These metabolites can support cellular antioxidant defenses and serve as signaling molecules with effects throughout the body.*
Gut Microbiome Modulation: Supporting Beneficial Bacteria
Polyphenols help maintain microbial balance by encouraging the growth of health-supportive bacteria such as Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, and Akkermansia, while discouraging microbes such as Clostridium histolyticum, Desulfovibrio, and Escherichia coli.* [3,4] In vitro and in vivo studies show that different classes of polyphenols, such as anthocyanins from berries, catechins from green tea, and tannins from pomegranate, can shift microbial populations in favorable directions.*[5]
Metabolite Production: The Role of Microbial Transformation*
The interaction between polyphenols and gut microbes goes both ways. While polyphenols influence microbiota composition, the microbiota in turn metabolizes polyphenols into compounds with physiological relevance.* These include phenolic acids, urolithins, and equol, which are all associated with antioxidant activity, metabolic, and immune-modulating functions.*[1,6]
Antioxidant Activity and Cytokine Support*
Polyphenols and their metabolites promote antioxidant activity at the cellular level by influencing reactive oxygen species (ROS) pathways such as Nrf2 and supporting endogenous enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx).*[7] They may also help modulate cytokine signaling through effects on NF-κB and related transcription factors.*[8]
Metabolic Support*
Polyphenols such as catechins, resveratrol, and quercetin have been shown in animal studies to promote thermogenic gene expression in adipose tissue, encourage mitochondrial activity, and support normal metabolism of fats.*[9,10]
Brain and Cognitive Health*
Emerging evidence points to neuroprotective effects of polyphenols, particularly those found in berries, cocoa, and green tea. Animal studies have shown that polyphenol intake can promote functional brain health and support neurotrophic factors.*[11]
Gut Barrier Integrity and Microbial Balance*
Polyphenols may support the gut’s physical barrier and promote tight junction integrity.* Some polyphenols also act directly on microbial activity in selective ways or “with precision.”*[12] Polyphenol-driven increases in SCFA-producing bacteria such as Roseburia, Faecalibacterium, and Akkermansia muciniphila may be one mechanism by which polyphenols promote gut barrier integrity and normal inflammatory signaling.* [13]
The DE111® Difference: A Resilient Probiotic Partner to Polyphenols*
Among the growing list of microbiome-supportive strategies, Bacillus subtilis DE111® stands out as a shelf-stable, spore-forming probiotic strain that complements dietary polyphenols.*
DE111 survives gastric acid and reaches the intestines intact, where it transiently colonizes and supports microbial balance.*[14] Clinical studies in adults and children demonstrate benefits for gut barrier function, normal stool consistency, and immune modulation.*[15,16] In vitro research also shows DE111 may help maintain tight junctions and support cytokine activity.*[17] At just 1 billion colony forming units (CFUs) daily, Bacilius subtillis DE111® is a strong ally to one’s daily polyphenol intake.*
In Summary
Together, polyphenols and probiotics work in harmony to shape a healthier and more robust gut ecosystem.* Research continues to highlight that the benefits of polyphenol compounds and resilient probiotic strains, such as Bacillus subtilis DE111®, extend far beyond the gut and digestive health.* Whether targeting cognitive wellness, immune balance, or metabolic integrity, these compounds offer complementary tools to optimize health from the inside out, with daily support providing a strong foundation for long-term well-being and vitality.*
Disclaimer:
The information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult your physician or healthcare practitioner if you have specific questions before instituting any changes in your daily lifestyle including changes in diet, exercise, and supplement use.
Corey Schuler, PhD, FNP, CNS has dedicated his career to advancing the science and clinical art of integrative medicine and serves as director of medical affairs for Allergy Research Group. He is a family nurse practitioner and practices holistic primary care at Synergy Family Physicians in White Bear Lake, Minnesota.