Can Bulgarian Yogurt enhance astronauts’ performance during the Mars Missions?

Abstract

Probiotics (pro-for and bio- health) from yogurt are one of the most effective means to stimulate and strengthen the immune system. They help balance and regulate the digestive system, as well as preserve and enrich the gut microbiome. Maintaining a healthy gut microbiome is crucial for human health and well-being, especially for astronauts living in confined and stressful environments, such as those on a mission to Mars. One way to promote gut microbiome diversity is through diet, and Bulgarian yogurt (kiselo mlyako in Bulgarian: киceлo млякo) made with Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus has shown positive effects on gut health. This paper explores the potential of regular production and consumption of gut-beneficial foods, such as yogurt, during space travel. It analyses whether the dietary limitations and challenges in providing varied and fresh food for astronauts could be addressed through the addition and daily consumption of Bulgarian yogurt. To investigate this, we conducted an experiment with a team of analog astronauts participating in a two-week analog mission in a closed, Mars-like environment at the Mars Desert Research Station in the Utah desert, the USA. In compliment to all recognized health effects of yogurt, the analog astronauts reported that it can be easily prepared and had a positive effect on their overall well-being and gut health. Our study demonstrated the feasibility of incorporating freshly made yogurt into the astronauts’ diet and its potential to significantly contribute to achieving good health and well-being, which is an important goal in the colonization of other planets, such as Mars.