Good gut bacteria
Nutrition & Wellbeing
Did you know there’s such a thing as good bacteria in your gut? Here’s what you need to know!
If the thought of bacteria in your gut sounds bad, rest assured, it’s not! From infancy, the human body has both good and bad bacteria floating around the digestive system. The combination of the two make up the intestinal flora, also known as the microbiome. The key to having these bacteria is balance.
What are good bacteria?
Live, good bacteria that naturally occur in your body are called lactic acid bacteria. They exist in fermented food products such as yoghurt, sauerkraut or kombucha1. You can get lactic acid bacteria through supplements too. The main difference between the good bacteria in food and in supplements is that supplements often have a very good acid tolerance.
Why do I need good bacteria in my body?
When it comes to the intestinal flora in your gut, bacteria play an important role. The flora is made up of microorganisms that work together. It is here that good bacteria compete with bad bacteria to break down the food you eat and turn it into needed nutrients.
In addition, the digestive system is often called the “second brain” because it houses its own nervous system, called the enteric nervous system.
How to support your immune system
Maintaining a balance of good and bad gut bacteria is important. A healthy gut is key to supporting your immune system and feeling good. You can achieve this by eating well, leading a well-balanced life and supporting a healthy diet with certain food supplements.
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Tips for supporting your immune system:
Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables
Consume lots of fibre throughout the day
Include whole, unprocessed foods in your meals
Avoid an excess of foods high in sugar and saturated fat
Eat more fermented foods like yoghurt, kombucha and kimchi
Take food supplements specifically formulated to support the immune system
1 National Library of Medicine – Health and nutritional benefits from lactic acid bacteria