Facts Everyone Should Know About Probiotics And Gut Health

Probiotics Can Also Support Immune Health

Photo Credit: OchsnerHealthSystem

Unknown to many, the digestive system plays a hugely important role within the immune system in the human body. The gastrointestinal tract is the primary way in which an individual comes into contact with their outside environment and what goes into the system can affect the entire body. As well as getting rid of unneeded waste and absorbing energy, the digestive system can also have a profound effect on the body's ability to fight disease or infection.

In a study published by the United States National Library of Medicine, it was found that seventy percent of essential immune system cells are located in the digestive system. This fact should be enough to convince anyone that taking care of digestive health is paramount to fighting the seemingly unavoidable winter cold or flu.

Microbiomes Play An Important Role Within The Body

Photo Credit: HuffingtonPostCanada

Bacteria, fungi, and viruses within the body are like any other microorganisms or microbes, and trillions of these microbes live inside the body. Within the digestive system, there is a significant pocket of these bacteria known as the microbiome. As the microbiome grows, it allows humans to digest breast milk as a baby, digest fiber, and other foods, helping regulate the immune system, and also affects mental health and central nervous function. Too many unhealthy microbes within the microbiome can cause many health difficulties such as obesity and digestive problems.

The microbiome within the digestive system can also surprisingly affect cardiovascular health and even increase the risk of higher blood pressure and diabetes if unhealthy. Eating a diverse range of fresh foods, whole grains, probiotics, and fermented food will ensure a healthy microbiome within the digestive system and will also benefit the overall health of the body.

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