WILD YOUR GUT
The gut plays a central role in many chronic, systemic diseases
The GI tract is often an important starting point in improving overall health. A complex, living system, the intestine protects the body from external factors. based on The main three elements at play here are the microflora, mucosal barrier, and immune system. These three elements are in constant interplay with each other. Dysfunction in this system has been linked to allergies, arthritis, autoimmune disease, chronic fatigue, and more conditions.
The microbiome
The microbiome is the term used for the colony of bacteria which live in our gut. We are understanding more and more about the importance of our microbiome. A healthy functioning microbiome is one which is highly biodiverse. It is good for us to have a large diverse and thriving culture of bacteria. We like to think of it as a beautiful tropical jungle or wild garden inside us. We need to tend to this precious living colony, as quite literally, our life depends on it.
The gut flora is affected by our hormonal balance, our activity levels, our exposure to environmental toxins and our stress levels.
Recent studies have indicated that a breach of the intestinal barrier ( leaky gut) through dysbiosis and translocation of commensal bacteria to other organs may trigger several autoimmune pathways and that this shift may be prevented by dietary intervention.
The thin single cell mucosal barrier in our gut ( the gut/blood barrier) is vitally important in keeping unwanted and harmful proteins out of our blood. Recurring infections, poor diet and chronic stress are all linked with break downs in the gut barrier. Butyrate forming bacteria in the gut produce Short Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs) which feed the epithelial cells which form the gut barrier and help maintain good gut barrier function.
