Thriving from Inside to Out with a Healthy Gut

Many of us know that taking care of our gut leads to better digestive health (think: yogurt commercials). However, more research is beginning to reveal how maintaining a healthy gut flora impacts other body systems.

Our gut flora, also known as the gut microbiome, is the colony of “good” bacteria (probiotics) that live in our digestive tract. Although microscopic, their combined presence is not modest; there are 10 times more bacterial cells in our bodies than human cells, and of those bacterial cells, 100 trillion live in our digestive tract.

The impact these cells have on our overall health is not modest either. Research in germ-free lab environments have shown that animals with less beneficial strains are more susceptible to infection. This is because the “good” bacteria work to fight against the formation of pathogenic bacteria. Recent research also suggests that an imbalance of “good” versus “bad” gut bacteria may influence the development of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.

Equally fascinating is the relationship that the gut and brain have. There are more neurons found in the gut than in the spinal cord, and the gut’s bacteria produce over 90 percent of the body’s serotonin. These facts have led microbiome research to increase in the field of mental health, with studies suggesting its condition can influence mood, stress and social interaction. Scientists have also postulated the creation of “psychobiotics” that would be used to treat mental disorders.

Finally, recent studies have shown that the presence of certain strains of bacteria in the digestive tract could increase body mass index (BMI) and triglyceride levels, or lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels. All of these factors can influence the risk for developing cardiovascular disease.

Bottom Line: People now have more than one reason to show some love to their gut. If yogurt isn’t your preference, you can choose other fermented foods to increase your intake of probiotics, such as kimchi, kombucha and sauerkraut. If all else fails, talk to your doctor about finding the best probiotic supplement for your body’s needs.

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