Gut health and immune system

People are accustomed to perceiving the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) solely as a system of organs responsible for food digestion. However, recent research indicates that the GIT is also a full-fledged organ of the immune system, essential for ensuring proper defense against viruses and bacteria.

The GIT had to adapt as an immune organ due to the need to constantly combat various external factors. This includes not only toxins present in food and water but also various microorganisms¹.

The composition of the microflora inhabiting the gastrointestinal tract can be characterized by two indicators:

1. Diversity (the number of different species of microorganisms)
2. Abundance (the total number of all microorganisms of different species)

If either of these indicators suffers, immune function is disrupted. A good example is the overpopulation of pathogenic microflora due to improper diet and a lack of beneficial elements in food. In such cases, the diversity of microorganism species is compromised.

Assisting in maintaining gut health goes beyond proper nutrition; it also involves using various biologically active supplements, vitamins, and mineral complexes. The use of prebiotics is another simple way to support a healthy gut microbiota.

However, it’s not just the gut microbiota that influences a person’s immunity; the overall condition of the digestive system also plays a role.

A good example is provided by gastroenterologist Y.I. Prudnikova, who draws parallels between gastrointestinal diseases and yeast infections in women and girls. Diseases of the stomach, intestines, and other GIT organs disrupt mucin production in the body. Mucin is a key component of mucus, which is secreted by various organs, including the reproductive system. Mucus serves an important protective function. A decrease in mucus production leads to the proliferation of the Candida fungus and, consequently, yeast infections.

By the way, although less frequent, men can also experience yeast infections. Their development can be attributed to improper GIT function. It’s important to remember that weakened immunity caused by gastrointestinal tract diseases can affect sexual potency. Furthermore, deficiencies in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals negatively affect male vitality, and their absorption is notably impaired when the GIT is functioning improperly³.

In reality, our body can send a multitude of signals that something is wrong with the GIT. Among these signals are:

• Feeling of heaviness after eating
• Belching
• Abdominal pain
• Stool irregularities, often kept unspoken, which affects a significant number of people
• Burning sensation in the chest area
• Gas and rumbling after meals
• White coating on the tongue
• Unpleasant breath (yes, it’s not always about dental issues!)
• Increased or decreased saliva production, and more.

People tend to ignore the initial signals, reacting only when disruptions have advanced considerably. Improper GIT function can lead to migraines, headaches, general discomfort, and increased susceptibility to infections.

Any of the mentioned symptoms signaling incorrect stomach and intestinal function result in immune system dysfunction. Specific protein production is disrupted, immune cells are damaged, and the body becomes incapable of fighting infections.

Timely GIT check-ups and appropriate treatment selection are the simplest ways to identify problems at early stages and address them with minimal intervention.