WATER BULGARIANS: WHAT ARE THEY FOR AND CONTRAINDICATIONS - BIOLOGY - 2025

Water Bulgarians are a symbiotic culture of probiotic bacteria and yeast in sugar water. These are forming translucent and gelatinous grains as they grow. Among the bacteria present, the genera Lactobacillus, Lactococcus, Streptococcus spp, Acetobacter and Leuconostoc stand out.

Yeasts such as Saccharomyces, Kluyveromyces, Torula and possibly others also stand out. These crops are found all over the world, and no two are exactly the same. The drink in which they grow is a fermented liquid product of the microbial metabolization of sugar and contains lactic acid, alcohol (ethanol) and carbon dioxide (gas).

In addition, they contain a variety of enzymes and organic acids, B vitamins, vitamin K, and folic acid. The benefits of culturing probiotic microorganisms have been proven in double-blind studies in reducing carcinoma formation, lowering serum cholesterol, and stimulating the immune system.

Its benefits have also been proven in the prevention or treatment of certain infections such as urinary tract infections, stomach infections that cause diarrhea and also those generated by Helicobacter pylori. Bulgarian grains can also be eaten.

Bulgarians, both water and milk, have a very ancient origin and are known by many names in multiple places. The name "Bulgarian" is relatively modern, and comes from the Bacillus bulgaricus, a species identified by the Bulgarian scientist, Stamen Grigorov, in 1905.

What are they for?

Clinical and scientific evidence has shown that every time we eat, we also feed the millions of microbial cells that inhabit our body. So everything we consume has an effect on the composition of the intestinal flora.

A modern diet based on processed foods can mean the destruction of this balance. Without it, the digestive system cannot perform its function properly.

A balanced intestinal flora contributes to the reduction of cravings for unhealthy foods, especially refined sugars and sweet foods.

However, the functions of the intestinal flora go through the intestine and are even more diverse and profound, intervening both in the restoration and in the alteration of health.

They contribute to a healthy immune system

Our brain and gut are connected by an extensive network of neurons, chemicals, and hormones that constantly exchange information.

Thus, we perceive the sensation of hunger, stress or stomach upset as a result of having ingested an undesirable microorganism or substance.

The literature calls this communication superhighway the brain-gut axis. There is constant exchange of signals between the two extremes. The imbalance in the intestinal microflora, its metabolic activity and its distribution throughout the intestine is known as intestinal dysbiosis.

This condition is an indicator of hostile and opportunistic bacteria and yeast growth, causing poor digestion, food allergies, headaches, flu, skin rashes, and other more serious disorders.

Its origin can come from dietary imbalances (for example, high consumption of proteins of animal origin and simple sugars), stress, the consumption of antibiotics or other drugs, etc.

Ingestion of the fermented water by Bulgarians inhibits the growth of unfavorable bacteria and yeasts, helps to colonize and improves the function of the digestive tract. In this way, water Bulgarians strengthen the immune system by balancing the body's microflora.

By enhancing autoimmunity against allergies and asthma, Water Bulgarians act as anti-inflammatories. A great reduction in inflammatory markers has been observed due to the regular intake of these probiotics.

They improve gastrointestinal functioning

Probiotics ingested through water Bulgarians reduce the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, which include bloating, indigestion, flatulence, diarrhea or constipation, nausea, lack of energy and general malaise.

The alteration in the functioning of the entero-hepatic system (intestine-liver) causes harmful substances to pass into the blood from the intestine and gradually accumulate in the body.

Depending on genetics and the environment in which the person develops, various pathologies can occur: from skin disorders to joint ailments.

Water Bulgarians contribute to better liver function. A correct process of absorption and digestion of food allows the optimal use of macro and micronutrients, fundamental aspects for the achievement of good health and longevity.

Increase the general feeling of well-being

The changes in the intestinal microflora, product of the ingestion of probiotics like the Bulgarians of water, generate an increase of the energy and in the general feeling of good health.

The balance in the microflora that arises after the regular consumption of Bulgarian water, causes a calming effect on the nervous system and contributes to symptomatic relief in many people suffering from sleep disorders and insomnia, depression, ADHD (deficit disorder attention and hyperactivity) and autism.

The composition of the gut microbiota influences the body's level of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood. On the other hand, the bacterial flora is affected by excess cortisol, a hormone generated by the feeling of continuous stress.

Cortisol induces suppression of the immune system, increases glucose levels, and destroys intestinal bacterial flora.

They improve the skin and the functioning of the glandular system

The general condition of the skin improves with the Bulgarian intake of water. The balance in microbial flora that is achieved through Bulgarians' intake of water can alleviate many skin conditions, such as psoriasis, eczema, and acne.

Brown spots due to age can fade, as can skin tags, moles, warts, etc. Hair and nails look healthier, stronger and better.

The regular intake of probiotics helps the functioning of the endocrine gland system: adrenal, thyroid, pituitary and ovaries.

Preparation

The basic method of preparation is to add the Bulgarian water culture to a sugary liquid next to a citrus fruit and leave it to ferment for 24 to 48 hours.

It is important not to use ingredients that inhibit fermentation, such as tap water that contains chlorine. The citrus fruits used can be changed and mixed to create different flavors.

Precautions must be taken to keep crops healthy. For example, do not use reactive metals such as aluminum, copper or zinc, since the acidity of the solution can make them react and damage them.

It is recommended to grow the Bulgarians in a glass jar and use clean stainless steel, plastic or wooden utensils to handle the beans.

Contraindications

The benefits of water Bulgarians outweigh its contraindications. A person in good health has no contraindications to ingest it and generally does not experience undesirable side effects.

However, some may experience detox symptoms popularly known as "healing crises."

With the introduction of beneficial bacteria through the water Bulgarians, the body's natural cleansing and self-healing capacity is enhanced. However, it should be noted that people with a weakened immune system, or who are taking drugs that affect it, can have side effects when ingesting them.

The most common side effects are flatulence and loss of stool. Other side effects can range from severe constipation to stomach cramps, and even urinary tract infection.

If this happens it is necessary to stop taking them for a few days and then slowly and progressively restart with small doses, for example, one tablespoon a day.

Water Bulgarians are not recommended for people with Niemann-Pick disease types A and B. In water Bulgarians there are live bacteria and yeasts, people with sensitivity to yeast may show discomfort when ingested.

References

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2. Laureys D., De Vuyst, L. Microbial Species Diversity, Community Dynamics, and Metabolite Kinetics of Water Kefir Fermentation. Appl. Environ. Microbiol., 2014 April; vol. 80 (8): 2564-2572
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