Our intestines contain their own ecosystem, which only functions excellently when the intestinal bacteria are in balance. This so-called microbiome is colonized by countless microorganisms that ensure that the stomach, intestines and immune system function optimally.
Why is intestinal flora so important for health?
It is assumed that there are around 100 trillion bacteria in the intestine, which can be divided into around 500 different species. This intestinal flora can be positively influenced by a healthy lifestyle.
While medications such as antibiotics, a poor diet, stress or mental strain can cause bad bacteria to grow, good habits can positively support gut health. If more bad bacteria settle in the intestinal mucosa, it can become permeable to toxins or pathogens. Almost 80 percent of our immune system is located in the gut and even the production of serotonin, the “happiness hormone” for the brain, is largely dependent on healthy gut flora. Scientists now believe that many diseases of civilization such as cardiovascular diseases, allergies, neurodermatitis, depression, a weak immune system and even cancer can have their origin in a disturbed intestinal flora.
According to the latest findings, how resilient we are, i.e. how well we can cope with stress and how quickly our moods can hit rock bottom, is also closely linked to our gut flora.
How can you support the intestinal flora?
The following factors can build up our intestinal flora and ensure natural intestinal cleansing:
- Reduce stress
- Exercise and reduce excess weight
- Nutrition
- Probiotics
Reduce stress for a strong gut
Negative stress can be extremely harmful to the function of the intestinal flora and therefore also affect the motility of the intestine. Stress can trigger an inflammatory flare-up in chronic inflammatory bowel disease.
Exercise and reduce excess weight
External movement ensures better internal movement. The digested food is transported further more quickly and blood circulation is supported. Those who exercise more also lose excess weight more easily. This can also be to blame for a disturbed intestinal flora. This is because fat triggers inflammation, which in turn can have a negative effect on intestinal bacteria.
Nutrition for the benefit of our gut health
Our intestines are particularly happy about fiber. Although they are not directly absorbed by the body, the good intestinal bacteria “feed” on them.
- Vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, broccoli and potatoes strengthen the intestinal mucosa.
- Wholemeal products such as pasta or bread, healthy oils and nuts, but also pulses such as beans and lentils are good for the intestinal mucosa.
- These foods are also full of valuable vitamins, minerals and secondary plant substances, which can also have positive effects on the intestinal mucosa.
- Antioxidants in vegetables and fruit can be anti-inflammatory and thus enormously beneficial for the good intestinal bacteria.
Support the intestinal mucosa with probiotics
Incorporate probiotics into your diet! They are mainly found in fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, pure buttermilk or sauerkraut. Look for organic products that are as fresh as possible! Dairy products that have been in the supermarket for a long time often contain only a few probiotics.
When can phytopreparations be helpful for the gut?
In stressful times, when dieting or taking medication, the body and especially the intestinal mucosa can benefit from external support. If you are not sure that you are providing your body with enough fiber, vitamins or minerals, you can take dietary supplements. Always pay attention to the quality! medpro offers special phytopreparations for intestinal health. They contain precisely defined amounts of certain plant substances that can specifically support intestinal cleansing and thus the function of the intestinal mucosa. It is best to ask our partner doctors and therapists – they will recommend the right preparations for your complaints and support you on the way to a new, good gut feeling.
