When you think about immunity, your gut may not come to mind first. But, in reality, your gut health and immunity are closely connected. Supporting your gut by upping your intake of probiotics and prebiotics can provide two-fold benefits for your digestive and immune health.
Read on to learn more!
The Link Between Gut Health and Immunity
Gut health and immunity have a direct link. In fact, approximately 70% of the immune system is found in the gut, and research shows that a balanced gut microbiome promotes immune homeostasis.
Your gut helps the immune system:
- Effectively respond to pathogens
- Prevent infections
- Develop new immune cells
The estimated 100 trillion bacteria in the gut help regulate your immune response to foreign intruders, including viruses and bacteria. However, if the bad bacteria in the gut microbiome overtake the good bacteria, it can lead to inflammation and an abnormal immune response.
Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Your Immune System
Probiotics and prebiotics, whether from food sources of supplements, promote a healthy gut and strong immune system.
- Probiotics are live microorganisms that improve the gut microbiome, promoting a healthy balance of good and bad bacteria. Probiotic-rich foods include yogurt, kefir, kimchi, pickles, sauerkraut, kombucha, miso, and other fermented foods.
- Prebiotics act as food for the microorganisms in your gut. They’re non-digestible, meaning they move through the intestines to the colon without breaking down. Prebiotic-rich foods include bananas, asparagus, garlic, leeks, apples, onions, and various whole grains.
Both probiotics and prebiotics are known to strengthen the immune system by helping regulate inflammation, improving gut barrier function, and promoting a balanced microbiome.
If you’re struggling with recurrent infections, autoimmune conditions, or related health concerns, adding to probiotics and prebiotics to your diet may improve your overall wellness. For a comprehensive evaluation and personalized recommendations, schedule a consultation with the integrative physicians at The Center for Natural & Integrative Medicine!
