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Gut Health: Microbiome (Gut Bacteria)

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The microbiome is defined as the collection of microbes or microorganisms bacteria that inhabit an environment, creating a unique ecosystem. The human microbiome is a diverse ecosystem made up of over 1000 species of bacteria. It is directly influenced by food choices and other daily interactions, resulting in a constantly changing environment that is representative of your health. Imbalance in this microbial community, called dysbiosis, has been implicated in countless chronic health conditions. Understanding the impact of your daily lifestyle habits will help you choose habits that positively influence your microbiome and overall health.


The role of gut bacteria is plentiful. A proper balance of gut microbes helps to improve digestion to break down and process proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Fiber is key in feeding good bacteria to produce short chain fatty acids such as butyrate and acetoacetate that help nourish the endothelial lining of the gut mucosa. More of good bacteria as a protective effect against Bad bacteria that can cause GI upset.


A Well-structured gut lining helps to synthesize a key neurotransmitter known as serotonin that not only regulates gut Motility. But it also reduces anxiety and depression. 5 hydroxytryptophan and amino acid is the precursor substrate that the gut lining converts into serotonin which later in the evening is converted to melatonin that helps us sleep.


When the gut lining is intact and operating optimally it also generates peptide hormones which help control appetite, affect metabolism, and also improve neurologic function.

The gastrointestinal barrier controls and permits the absorption of helpful substances into the bloodstream while keeping out those that are harmful. And healthy people, the barrier is tightly regulated, allowing only important nutrients to pass through the gut and protecting the body from harmful substances such as toxins, undigested food and pathogens. Since the gut is constantly exposed to food, microbes and chemicals, the GI tract must continuously defend against unwanted substances that, if allowed entry into the body, can cause a vicious cycle of inflammation. The constant exposure to foreign substances can cause the walls of the intestines to become vulnerable to deterioration and permeability, a condition commonly referred to as leaky gut syndrome.


There are a few causes that contribute to microbial imbalance. First and foremost, Poor dietary intake, This is because of our Standard American Diet (SAD), Which includes the consumption of highly refined and processed foods that lack any nutrients that are sustainable for the body to function optimally. Home cooked meals and whole food is truly the way to go.  Environmental toxins can be a burden on the gastrointestinal system. Consuming tap water for instance that contains chloride and fluoride which are detrimental to the gut microbiome. Also, there many micro-toxins in tap water that were not filtered out and within time accumulate in our bodies. Moreover, the excessive use of antibiotics in our food sources and the unnecessary consumption of antibiotics alter the normal bacterial balance that results in dysbiosis. In addition, Chronic Stress will alter gut motility that will cause constipation with rebound diarrhea.


The consequence of microbial imbalance is intestinal permeability that will allow for unwanted substances that will result not only local inflammation but also systemic Inflammatory processes. Systemic inflammation can affect several other bodily systems such as the respiratory tract causing sinus allergies and asthma. Dermatologic disorders such as eczema and psoriasis. It also contributes to arthritic Issues such as arthropathies. It will contribute to irregular bowel movements also known as irritable bowel syndrome which can later turn into irritable bowel diseases such as Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis. Overtime one may develop negative food reactions making them sensitive to gluten and dairy products.

The long-term effects on the body can be especially with obesity which has become very prevalent in country. An imbalance of hormones Search a serotonin can result in depression and anxiety. Allergies can develop And with an imbalanced immune system can result in autoimmune disorders.  An individual will over time become malnourished from poor absorption of vitamins and trace minerals.


Nutrient Solutions:


Probiotics

Are microorganisms that support healthy gut flora, immune function and decrease inflammation What’s more they prevent bad bacteria from overgrowing and help protect and preserve gut barrier function.


L Glutamine

It is an amino acid that fuels the cells of the gut lining. It helps promote gut mucosal health and maintain a healthy gut barrier.


Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL) and Aloe Vera

Enhance the repair and regeneration of the mucosal lining, balanced intestinal microflora, and improve the composition of the gut microbiome.


Soluble and insoluble fiber

Provide fuel for good bacteria, enhance bio regularity and structure, and help bind and eliminate toxins.


Fish oil

Essential fatty acids contained in fish oil are important regulators of inflammation and tissue integrity.


Vitamin D3

Contributes to the maintenance of a healthy intestinal barrier and increases immune cell function.


Digestive enzymes with Betaine HCL

Helps improve digestion and establish an optimal PH in the stomach to initiate the breakdown of nutrients for improved absorption.


At Health Quest, we believe true healing starts in the gut because the gut is the foundation of your body’s health.


If you’re ready to go deeper in your healing journey, I encourage you to explore the mind-gut connection. Your thoughts impact your digestion. Your mindset shapes your physical health. Healing the body means healing the mind, and vice versa.


To learn how to reset your thoughts, break free from negative cycles, and create the conditions your body needs to heal, get a copy of my new book, Remake Your Mind, Remake Your Life.


In this book, I guide you through the mindset shifts that unlock physical healing, mental clarity, and emotional freedom.


You can get your copy today from any of these retailers:



Healing starts in your gut. But it transforms when you change your mind.


 
 
 

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© 2025 by The Health Quest with Dr Sal. All rights reserved.

Medical Disclaimer. I am a retired with well over 30 years of medical and surgical experience. I am not here to give medical advice but attempting to change lifestyle habits that restore your overall health. I advise that you consult with your physician, when undertaking any lifestyle change. 

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