Your immune system is your body’s first line of defence against harmful pathogens, such as viruses, bacteria, and parasites that can cause illness and disease. It’s made up of a complex network of cells, tissues and organs found throughout your body including your skin, spleen, lymphatic system and, most significantly, your intestines - your guts.

The bacteria and microbes that live in your gut, also known as your gut microbiome, influence many of your bodily functions including regulating your blood sugar levels and appetite, influencing your mental health and supporting your immune system.

The gut microbiome and digestive tract is also a potential entry site for pathogens to enter your body. The bacteria here play a vital role in not only digesting your food, but in protecting the intestinal lining from damage, and in training the immune system to respond to these potential pathogens.

The bacteria in your gut microbiome works in different ways to support your immune system including:

When beneficial bacteria come into contact with viruses, bacteria and parasites they work to prevent any harmful bacteria taking up residence in the gut. Beneficial bacteria in the gut can compete with harmful pathogens for nutrients and space, creating an environment that is less hospitable to pathogens.

The same bacteria also interacts with your immune system through the production of substances called short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that have the ability to reduce inflammation in the body. SCFAs also help to regulate the immune system, preventing it from overreacting to harmless substances, such as the foods you consume. Of course, if you have inadequate amounts of beneficial bacteria, or eat too many inflammatory foods or drink too much alcohol, then the gut microbiome will be overwhelmed and struggle to do its job here.

The gut microbiome also helps to regulate the immune response. Certain beneficial bacteria can stimulate the production of immune cells, such as T-cells and B-cells, that help fight off infection and disease.

The gut microbiome helps to maintain the integrity of the intestinal wall, which acts as a physical barrier against harmful pathogens. A healthy gut barrier prevents harmful substances from passing through the gut lining and into the bloodstream, reducing the risk of infection and disease.

Hopefully now you can understand the importance of having a healthy gut microbiome when you’re building a strong and resilient immune system. These are some of the typical symptoms that may indicate you have poor gut health:

• Digestive issues, such as constipation, diarrhea, bloating, gas, and abdominal pain
• Fatigue, lack of energy and motivation
• Susceptible to getting colds and flu
• Food intolerances, including dairy or gluten intolerances
• Depression, anxiety, irregular moods or irritability
• Skin issues, like acne, rosacea, or eczema

If you're experiencing any of the above, you may benefit from a specific treatment plan or protocol that, depending on your gut health issues, may look at cleansing your system of parasites, boosting specific strains of beneficial bacteria, making some dietary changes or taking herbal medicines or supplements to help the body repair the gut lining.

Come in and see me for a consultation to find out how you can improve your gut health and have a stronger immune system too.