These cells have the task of fighting harmful microorganisms that are ingested with food or by droplet infection. In most cases, pathogens have already been successfully fought off by our stomach acid, but if they overcome this natural barrier, the immune cells in the intestinal wall are called into action. The gut associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) can specifically label and destroy foreign substances.
Healthy gut microbiome
But it’s not just the defence cells that are important for the immune response – the bacteria and fungi that naturally reside primarily in the large intestine can also prevent the spread of pathogens. The entirety of all bacteria living in the intestine is referred to as the “gut microbiome”.
The bacteria of the gut microbiome perform important functions in the digestive process. If their number or diversity is reduced, the digestive process is disturbed and it can lead to digestive complaints such as flatulence, diarrhoea and discomfort.
However, a healthy gut microbiome can also contribute to the immune response, since the intestinal surface is already populated with the natural, “good” bacteria, which leaves pathogens no room or food to establish themselves in the intestine. The more beneficial probiotics there are, the stronger our immune system is.
A basic prerequisite for our well-being and a healthy gut microbiome is a balanced ratio of microorganisms. And there are a whole lot of them: the large intestine is home to an incredible number of bacteria – around 100 trillion – which can be distinguished into around 500 different types of bacteria!
The more diverse the gut microbiome, the better our digestion and immune system.
Because the immune system and the intestine are so closely connected, a weakening of the intestine can affect the immune system and vice versa.
Disrupted gut microbiome – what affects the intestinal bacteria?
Although the gut microbiome develops individually in childhood, the composition and diversity of the bacteria is influenced by various factors.
Of course, diet plays a major role. A high consumption of sugar and white flour products in particular can severely disrupt the balance in the intestine, as can the consumption of alcohol and coffee.
On the other hand, a balanced diet with a high proportion of fibre-rich foods such as whole grains, flaxseeds and vegetables as well as pre- and probiotic foods such as sauerkraut, yogurt and quark support intestinal health.
Taking certain medications also leaves its mark on the gut microbiome. Taking laxatives, hormone drugs and especially antibiotics can lead to damage to the gut microbiome.
Antibiotics are used to fight off the bacteria that make us ill – unfortunately, the good bacteria are also affected. It is therefore recommended to consume probiotic foods such as natural yogurt to restore normal bacterial colonization of the intestine after antibiotic treatment.
Chronic stress can also cause an imbalance between “good” and “bad” gut bacteria. We can feel this, for example, through sudden diarrhoea, stomach pain or frequent infections.