Balancing Microorganisms in the Digestive Tract

Digestion really gets going in the stomach. Cells in the stomach produce protein-depleting enzymes and hydrochloric acid to break down food. The stomach secretes other necessary substances, such as hormones and mucus, to manage organ functions and safeguard the gastric lining.

 

The condition of the stomach’s inner lining, or mucosa, relies on a careful balance between aggressive and defensive factors. Aggressive factors, such as hydrochloric acid, damage the lining. Whereas defensive factors, such as mucus, protect the delicate surface. Too much acid weakens the defense and can lead to erosions or ulcers, and other symptoms such as upper abdominal pain, indigestion, heartburn, nausea, and vomiting. By the time you reach the point of acute suffering, the problem has been developing for months or even years. It may be very difficult to resolve.

Your intestinal system serves a bigger purpose than just processing food. It contains a multitude of bacteria - both good and bad - that contribute to about 85% of the immune system. The bacteria stimulate the creation of Secretory IgA (SigA) in the intestines, which nourishes your immune system and protects your body. Approximately 2 to 3 grams of SigA is created every day.

 

SigA is the primary immunoglobulin in mucus secretions. Mucus is your body’s main defense against gastrointestinal pathogens, such as bacteria, parasites, fungi, toxins and viruses. SigA antibodies attach to pathogens - trapping them in mucus - and neutralize harmful toxins, until the pathogen is expelled from the body with other waste by way of feces.

Probiotics Can Improve Immune and Digestive Health

Numerous health issues can arise when your digestive tract is not working efficiently, including allergies and autoimmune diseases. Properly managing the complex microorganisms that reside in your GI tract is essential to maintaining your immune health.

 

You can greatly decrease your risk of developing a digestive problem by integrating probiotics into your diet. Probiotics are living microorganisms or friendly bacteria that have significant health benefits in the body. Probiotics can be found in organic supplements, like our PRO-EM 1® products, as well as certain foods, like yogurt. Probiotics can help balance the levels of microorganisms in the stomach and intestines, and drive down the number of harmful bacterias.