Gut 101

What’s the big deal about gut health?

Well, you know how good health is closely tied to a strong immune system? What if we told you that much of your body’s immune cells are concentrated within your gut and that keeping your gut happy, helps keep your immune system functioning. Gut health refers to the functionality and bacterial balance within the many parts of the gastrointestinal tract. In fact, your gut helps run the show when it comes to your health and wellness, because it is responsible for breaking down the foods we eat into the necessary nutrients we need to support our bodily functions. Given that your gut plays such a critical role in your overall well being, it’s kinda a big deal.

You and your microbiome

Another big name in the chat around gut health is - microbiome. Don’t freak out, but you actually have a thriving metropolis of microbes living on and in your body. Imagine Sydney CBD on a bustling Monday, now imagine that on a microscopic level… that’s your microbiome! Each person has an entirely unique network of microbiota that is determined by their DNA. This microbiome consists of over a hundred different types of not only bacteria but also fungi, parasites and viruses. These stimulate the immune system, break down food compounds and synthesize certain vitamins and minerals. Your largest microbial community is in fact within your gastrointestinal tract, known as your gut microbiota.

Probiotics or Prebiotics or both?

Gastrointestinal problems can stem from not having optimal levels of good bacteria in your digestive track. The good guys help your gut absorb nutrients, break down food and fight off bad bacteria. Both probiotics and prebiotics are beneficial for your gut health, but they work in different ways. Probiotics are living strains of bacteria that add to the overall population of good bacteria within your gut, enhancing your good gut army. Prebiotics are made from a specialised plant fibre that acts as food for your microbiota, supporting your good gut army!