That’s right, my friend. The key to staying healthy this winter could already be hiding in your gut.
It turns out that the trillions of tiny organisms living in your digestive tract could be your best defense against pesky winter viruses like the flu and the common cold.
The human gut hosts trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites. But don’t worry. While that may sound alarming, most of these microbes are beneficial.
The majority of our gut bugs are symbiotic, meaning that people benefit from them, and they benefit from people.
These beneficial microbes are vital in preventing pathogenic organisms from colonizing the gut. They compete for resources and attachment sites on the digestive tract lining, effectively crowding out potentially harmful bacteria.
Approximately 70 percent of your body's immune cells reside in your gut. And your gut microbiome plays a vital role in educating the immune system about which microbes are harmful and which are beneficial.
Recent studies reveal that gut bacteria’s influence extends beyond the digestive tract. Gut flora affects the immune system in other parts of the body, partly through the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs).
Diet plays a pivotal role in shaping the gut microbiome. Here’s how...
- Fiber-rich foods are particularly useful as they serve as fuel for beneficial gut bacteria. SCFAs are produced when bacteria ferment the fiber, and they can enhance immune-cell activity, regulate blood sugar, and improve cholesterol levels.
- Probiotic foods, such as yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables, also boost gut health. Even small daily servings of these foods can positively impact inflammatory markers throughout the body.
- The typical Western diet, high in processed foods, animal protein, sugar, and alcohol, can disrupt the gut microbiome and promote inflammation.
But don’t stop with diet. Other lifestyle factors that influence gut health and immunity include stress, physical activity, and sleep. So, it’s time to commit to worrying less, moving more, and getting good quality sleep.
Remember, taking care of your microbiome is a year-round commitment. So, as the cold and flu season approaches, be sure to give your gut the extra support it needs to defend you against those ugly bugs all fall and winter long.
And another thing...
Here's what else we've covered this week in Living Well Daily...
From Viral Video Star to Heart Health Hero
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How Does This Year's Flu Shot Stack Up?
The latest data about this year's flu vaccine is in, and it might not be what you were hoping to hear. Here’s what you need to know…
Beware of this Hidden “Tumor Fertilizer”
You can drastically reduce your risk for colorectal cancer by making a few lifestyle changes. Now, new research reveals another surprising step you can take to slash your risk.
Weird Nightmare Trigger Has an Easy Fix
Nightmares aren’t just a problem for kids. Adults get them, too. If you've been having more nightmares lately, your social life might be to blame.
Mailbag: Break Free from Cholesterol Lowering Statins
Think cholesterol-lowering statins are necessary for heart health? Think again. Skip the side effects and try these natural alternatives instead.
5 Reasons to Eat MORE Pumpkin This Fall
Pumpkin is packed with nutrients that can boost your health from head to toe. So, let's examine why you should be more of it this fall superfood.
Ditch “Calendar Age” to Live Longer and BETTER
Aging is an attitude. How old you feel is more important than your calendar age. Move beyond birthdays to cultivate a younger, healthier mental age.
Health and Happiness,
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
P.S. 6 science-backed immune BOOSTERS.
Ed. Note: Please send your feedback: feedback@livingwelldaily.com - and click here to like us on Facebook or click here to follow us on Twitter.
SOURCE:
He, J., Zhang, P., Shen, L., Niu, L., Tan, Y., Chen, L., Zhao, Y., Bai, L., Hao, X., Li, X., Zhang, S., & Zhu, L. Short-Chain Fatty Acids and Their Association with Signaling Pathways in Inflammation, Glucose and Lipid Metabolism. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 21(17), 6356. |
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Dear Living Well Daily Reader,