Miguatemala Health Blog

If you thought the gut was only related to digestion, you will be surprised to know that it plays a key role in the immune system. Furthermore, the intestinal microflora is essential for the functioning of both systems.

There are several hundred different bacterial species, mainly located in the colon. The gastrointestinal tract is sterile at birth, but quickly develops intestinal microflora varies depending on such factors as the circumstances of birth, childhood nutrition, antibiotic use, diet and age.Microflora and Digestion

The main function of the intestine is to absorb water and nutrients. The specific task of colonic microflora during digestion is produced by fermenting food substances (eg, the dietary fiber), which can not be digested in the small intestine. This fermentation produces, among other molecules, lactic acid and short-chain fatty acids (acetic, propionic and butyric). The latter provides energy to the lining of the wall of the colon, improves absorption of minerals and beneficially affect the metabolism of glucose and lipids in the liver.

Microflora and Immune Function

There are three main routes through which the gut acts as a defense system. The first is by hosting microflora, which protects against bacterial invasion. Mechanisms are in dispute for nutrients and receptors in the gut wall and creating an adverse environment for pathogens (eg, low pH).

Secondly, the intestinal wall cells not only absorb nutrients, but also as a protective barrier that prevents the entry of harmful substances. Third, the intestine has an immune system composed of cells (inmunecitos) specialist. The inmunecitos are able to generate their own innate response and also trigger the production of antibodies, proteins that target other proteins called antigens-in this case, the invading pathogen, to clear and dispose of the body. Our gut communicates with the gastrointestinal immune system cells and the liver to provide a coordinated response to food antigens and harmful microorganisms.

Therefore, the intestinal microflora is essential for the protection mechanism to function properly. In fact, not having a good bacterial balance in the gut is associated with conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, colon cancer and gastroenteritis. Changes in diet and eating habits, and the use of antibiotics can disrupt the balance of intestinal microflora, reducing the amount of beneficial bacteria such as lactobacillus and bifidobacteria, with respect to the presence of harmful microorganisms or pathogens such as Clostridium or enterococcus.

Source: www.alimentacion-sana.com.ar/informaciones/novedades/salud%20int.htm
image source: www.bodyharmony.com/stock/tummy.jpg

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