Gut health has a significant impact on immune health due to the intricate connection between the gut and the immune system. Read on to learn how gut health affects immune health and strategies to boost it.
Microbiome Influence
The gut is home to trillions of microbes, collectively known as the gut microbiota. These microbes interact closely with the immune system, influencing its development, maturation, and activity. A balanced and diverse microbiome is associated with a stronger immune response, while disruptions in this balance can lead to immune system dysregulation.
How to Boost Gut Microbiome
Consume a diet rich in fibre, fruits, vegetables, and fermented foods to promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Probiotic supplements may also help replenish and maintain a healthy microbiome.
Ultimate Biotic from Eden Healthfoods concentrated gut formula is full of prebiotics and shelf-stable probiotics for the ultimate internal health solution. Designed for daily digestive maintenance with a wide variety of friendly bacteria. Also contains five different soluble and insoluble fibres (prebiotics) to ensure the good bacteria make it through to your large intestines.
Immune Cell Activation
Specialised immune cells in the gut, such as T cells, B cells, and dendritic cells, constantly interact with the gut microbiota and food antigens. This interaction helps to train and modulate the immune system, ensuring an appropriate response to threats without overreacting to harmless substances.
How to Support Immune Cell Function
Consume foods rich in immune-supportive nutrients such as vitamins (e.g., vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin A), minerals (e.g., zinc, selenium), and antioxidants. Examples include citrus fruits, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and lean proteins.
Eden Healthfoods' Wild C is a natural wholefood vitamin C and antioxidant formula derived from a combination of certified organic and wildcrafted berries and greens with naturally occuring, bioavailable high vitamin C content. This is natural Vitamin C rather than the synthetic Ascorbic Acid found in most mainstream vitamin products.
Gut Barrier Function
The gut lining acts as a physical barrier, preventing harmful pathogens and toxins from entering the bloodstream. A healthy gut barrier is crucial for immune health, as it helps to keep pathogens in check and reduces the risk of systemic inflammation.
How to Promote Gut Barrier Integrity
Consume foods rich in soluble fibre (e.g., oats, legumes, flaxseeds) to support gut barrier function. Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol, processed foods, and substances that may damage the gut lining.
Diatomaceous Earth is a natural, simple and effective approach to gut health. Also known as fossil shell flour, diatomaceous earth is one of the most effective way to eliminate bacteria and toxins from your gut naturally. Rich in silica, iron, magnesium and calcium, it will deliver essential minerals to the body. Mix with water, juice or a smoothie to cleanse and heal your gut daily.
Inflammation Regulation
Imbalances in gut microbiota composition or a compromised gut barrier can lead to increased inflammation in the gut. Chronic inflammation can negatively impact immune health and increase the risk of inflammatory conditions.
Enjoy an Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Emphasise foods with anti-inflammatory properties, such as fatty fish (rich in omega-3 fatty acids), olive oil, turmeric, ginger, and berries. Minimise consumption of pro-inflammatory foods like refined sugars, trans fats, and processed meats.
Mindful Foods' Anti-Inflammation Stardust is an organic nutrient powder that aids health and wellbeing. Mix it with milk for a latte or add to baking or meals to enhance the healing benefits. Turmeric and black pepper work synergistically to reduce inflammation in the body, with pepper increasing the absorption of Curcumin.
Manage Stress
Chronic stress can weaken the immune system and disrupt gut health. Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, and regular physical activity, can help support both gut and immune health.
Stay Hydrated
Adequate hydration is essential for proper digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall gut health. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support optimal gut function.
Get Sufficient Sleep
Quality sleep is vital for immune function and overall well-being. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to support immune system repair and maintenance.
By prioritising gut health through dietary and lifestyle choices, managing stress, staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, and supporting immune cell function, you can effectively boost your immune health and overall resilience against infections and diseases.
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