Probiotics and Gut Health are More Important Than You Realize

What is the one system of your body that controls inflammation, is largely responsible for blood pressure levels, plays a significant contributing role to chronic diseases such as colorectal cancer, type 2 diabetes, and more, and can even affect our anxiety levels and stress responses? It may surprise you to know that the answer is the digestive system. 

Gut Health is Not Well Understood

Digestive health has not always been in the spotlight as the first thing to look at when it comes to any number of health issues, however the health of our gut microbiome is absolutely vital to the health of the entire person; body and mind. 

Considering its pivotal role in our overall health, it makes sense that our gut would be located at the center of our bodies, but many Americans neglect to see the significance of taking good care of their digestive system, which is central to the health of every other system and even our vital organs.

While millions of Americans suffer from chronic digestive issues, and the majority of the world’s population experiences digestive trouble every year, it’s important to understand all that our digestive system does and how to take good care of it. 

Understanding the Microbiome

The gut microbiome, located in the digestive system, is made up of fungi, viruses, and trillions of bacteria. Babies are born with the gut microbiome, but it is greatly affected by the choices we make regarding consumption and movement. For instance, antibiotics, sugar, and a sedentary lifestyle all contribute to an unhealthy microbiome.  On the other hand, probiotics, a healthy diet, and an active lifestyle are all integral to a healthy microbiome. 

If the gut is healthy, then the rest of the body has a good chance of being healthy as well, especially considering that 70-80% of the body’s immune cells are located in the gut. One of the most important things anyone can do to maintain a healthy gut is to take quality probiotic supplements. 

The Importance of Probiotics

Probiotics promote gut health by inhibiting the growth of bad bacteria, helping the growth of good bacteria, balancing out immune responses, reducing inflammation, communicating with other microorganisms, and having a direct, positive effect on organs. 

Probiotics are also sometimes responsible for reducing diarrhea in infants, reducing negative digestive issues from antibiotics, and clearing up general digestive discomfort. They are also suspected to help with things like IBD, obesity, food allergies, and even mental health. 

In Conclusion

Anyone who cares about their health should understand gut health, and probiotics should be a priority and any self care routine.