Your gut is home to between 500 and 2,000 species of bacteria, yeast, parasites, viruses and other micro-organisms
Our bodies have 10 times more microbes than human cells
Everything can affect the balance of the gut micro-flora from stress, sleep, antibiotics and prescription medicines, excess of food, undereating or malnutrition, highly processed foods, food preservatives and environment
Digestive diseases are common - from Irritable Bowel Syndrome to urinary tract disease, allergies to foods and yeast infections
Abs are made in the kitchen. Common imbalances in gut flora can lead to indigestion, bloating, fluid retention and gas
While you absolutely must consume probiotic-rich foods, stay active and have a plan in place to deal with stressful situations (counselling, friends to talk to, a regular meditation and yoga practice), I regularly take probiotic supplements to bolster my gut health (I highly recommend Restore Daily Probiotic from Nature's Way. There's also the Restore 100 Billion option.)
Chronic inflammation of the guts can erode the gut lining, leading to Leaky Gut (allowing vital nutrients and even food particles to leak from the gut, creating a toxic environment in the body)
Your gut bacteria produces vitamin B12 and K2, vital for energy, nervous system function and immunity
Probiotics assist in balancing gut bacteria to outnumber the bad bacteria, yeast and fungi causing gut inflammation
Probiotics create enzymes that destroy harmful bacteria and stimulate the T-cells, responsible for immune system integrity
We naturally produce probiotics in the gut but lifestyle choices and disease can threaten their quality and quantity
A lack of probiotics can lead to digestive disorders, skin issues, yeast infections, vulnerability to colds and flus on a regular basis
Probiotics can prevent and treat urinary tract infections
Probiotics have been shown to improve and manage eczema in children
Cat Woods fitness wellness blogger Core Integrity With Cat