There are hundreds of bacterial species that call “us” home. For every human cell that is intrinsic to our body, there are about ten resident microbes. Microbes are single-cell organisms so tiny that millions can fit into the eye of a needle. They exert an influence on our health as great as the genes we inherit from our patents. Without them, the human body would not survive.
Microbes and the Immune System
Disorders in our internal ecosystem – a loss of diversity, or a proliferation of the “wrong” kind of microbes, may predispose us to obesity, inflammation, allergies, infections, autoimmune problems, and chronic disease. Our resident microbes appear to play a critical role in training and modulating our immune system, helping it to accurately distinguish between friend and foe. Some researchers believe that the alarming increase in autoimmune diseases in Western societies is due to the disruption of the right type of microbes. Scientists have long known that an adequate amount of “good” microbes, or “friendly” bacteria (probiotics) in the gut contribute to the wellness of one’s digestive tract. We now know that these probiotics do much more than help with diarrhea and regularity. Our gut bacteria play a role in the manufacturing of substances like neurotransmitters (including serotonin); enzymes and vitamins (notably vitamins B and K); and other important nutrients such as amino and fatty acids. The newest research suggests that some of these compounds play a role in regulating stress and even temperament. Believe it or not, when gut microbes from easygoing, adventurous mice are transplanted into the guts of anxious and timid mice, they become more adventurous.
Probiotics vs. Prebiotics
To augment the good bacteria in your gut you can consume probiotics in foods such as certain yogurts, cultured dairy products, sauerkraut, miso, tempeh, various juices and soy beverages. You can also ingest them in supplement form. Please note that probiotics alone are NOT enough to benefit the gut flora. You also need prebiotics which are food for the microbes. Prebiotics are non-digestible foods formed mostly from carbohydrate fibers call oligosaccharides. These fibers are not digested so they stay in the digestive tract and stimulate growth of the beneficial bacteria in the colon. Oligosaccharides are found in various foods including whole grains, fruits, garlic, and legumes. They can also be found in supplement form.
Symbiosis – A Match Made in Heaven
When probiotics and prebiotics mix together it is called a symbiotic. Together they can restore balance in the digestive tract and your immune system. They can also play a role in helping you feel more satisfied and energetic. It is true that you are what you eat…so watch what you put in there!
Article by Mimi Tagher, LAc, LMT
Mimi Tagher is Nationally Board Certified in Acupuncture, Chinese Herbology, and Oriental Medicine. She received her Masters Degree from The International Institute of Chinese Medicine. Mimi is also a Biodynamic Craniosacral teacher and practitioner, and a licensed massage therapist. Her specialty is combining acupuncture with craniosacral therapy to help balance the body physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
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