When it comes to improving immunity, you should pay special attention to gut health. That’s because your gut health and immune system are closely linked with each other. Your gut has thousands of microorganisms, which include viruses, fungi, bacteria, and many other microbes. All these are known as gut microbiome. Out of them, some bacteria can contribute to good health, whereas others can lead you to illnesses.
Having a healthy gut microbiome is quite important, as it can help you to ensure a healthier immune system. That’s because a healthy gut microbiome creates an ideal environment with healthy bacteria. It will offer much-needed assistance for regulating the immune system. As a result, you can make sure that your body has a strong line of defense against infections or injuries.
How does your gut health influence the immune system?
Interactions between your immune system and gut microbiome take place in both directions. This is kind of a complex relationship. Similar to your gut health, the gut microbiome can create an impact on different inflammation. Imagine what happens when you accidentally cut or bruise yourself. You will experience swelling, redness, and heat. This is where the damaged cell sends out signals to the immune cells to come forwards and fight against infections and repair the damage. This overall process is known as acute inflammation, and it is something that your body follows to take care of it.
However, there’s a different type of inflammation named chronic inflammation. This is long-term, and it would provide continuous responses to the immune system. This can create a negative impact on your health. In other words, chronic inflammation can increase the overall risk of developing long-term negative health consequences such as type-2 diabetes, heart diseases, and obesity. Gut microbiome plays a major role in chronic inflammation and all other negative health consequences associated with it.
How can you strengthen your immunity?
One of the best things you can do to improve your gut health is to consume more fermented foods, which contain probiotics. Probiotics are living microbes that can positively impact your gut health. You can also strengthen your immunity by consuming:
- Saukerkraut
- Kiefer
- Yogurt
- Temph
- Miso
- Kimchi
In addition to this list, consuming a diet high in fiber rich foods such as legumes and vegetables is also beneficial to the gut microbiota. Throughout one’s lifetime, your gut microbiome decreases as you age and can lead to you getting more infections. This is one of the main reasons why older people are more vulnerable to illnesses. It is important to keep these facts in mind and focus on enhancing your gut health through a healthy diet. Stronger gut health supports your overall immunity, which positions you for a greater sense of wellness.
If you are interested in learning more about how gut health influences the immune system, click here to schedule a virtual Comprehensive Health Assessment with Dr. Tawainna Houston.
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