Critical to optimal health is the role of friendly, healthy bacteria (“probiotics”) in the gut. There are many different species including Lactobacillus acidophilus, bifidus, saccharomyces, and others. These are known as the “microbiome”. The health of the microbiome is critical for overall body health!
A healthy gut microbiome provides nutrition for the cells that line the GI tract, is involved in detoxification, hormonal balance, production of 80% of neurotransmitters, certain vitamins, absorption of nutrients, immune system support, exclusion of harmful bacteria and proper elimination!
We can disturb these healthy bacteria by killing them off with antibiotics, or creating a hostile environment from a poor diet and chemicals from GMO foods. Overgrowth of unhealthy bacteria and yeast then becomes a problem. These imbalanced bacteria are a major factor in resistant weight loss and obesity.
Unhealthy bacteria produce toxins causing putrefaction (foul gas production), fermentation (yes, like alcohol) and other reactions that stress the body. These imbalances can lead to irritable bowel “IBS” symptoms including constipation, diarrhea, pain , gas, bloating and cramping. A particularly challenging form is known as SIBO-Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth.
Specific dietary changes, botanicals and taking quality probiotics to help restore normal GI bacterial flora can make a huge difference!
There are over four pounds of bacteria in our body, mostly in the intestinal microbiome. That’s 100 TRILLION bacteria! (We only have10 trillion cells that make up our bodies). These healthy bacteria were evolved in symbiotic relationship with our bodies over the past million years, functioning like an organ in themselves!
Restore healthy bacteria by eating non-GMO, organic whole foods, avoiding the use of antibiotics and minimizing sugar, alcohol and processed foods. Anti-yeast herbs such as oil of oregano and garlic can help. You may need specific microbiome testing to help determine individual health needs.
Our favorites are Strengtia [Apex], SIBOtica [Apex], ProbioMax [OrthoMolecular] and Megaspore. Our 4R Gut Repair program can help you learn more. Ask us for recommendations for your issues- one of our nutritionists would be happy to help.