Why the Gut Microbiome Is Critical In Decreasing Inflammation

approach to well-beinghealth coachingdetoxificationhealthy eating

Mar 24

Inflammation has become a major health concern in recent years. Chronic, low-grade inflammation is now believed to be the root cause of many modern diseases like autoimmune disorders, heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and more. While inflammation can sometimes serve a useful purpose in our bodies, mounting evidence shows that unchecked, systemic inflammation is extremely detrimental to overall health.

Fortunately, exciting research is emerging on the power of the gut microbiome to reduce harmful inflammation. The gut microbiome refers to the trillions of bacteria, viruses, and fungi that inhabit our gastrointestinal tract. Far from being passive bystanders, these microbes play an active role in regulating many aspects of physiology, including immune function and inflammatory processes. Here’s why paying attention to the gut microbiome may be one of the most effective ways to decrease inflammation and improve health:

It Directly Interacts With The Immune System

The gut houses over 70% of our immune cells. The microbes dwelling there have direct contact with this immune tissue, essentially "training" immune cells to respond appropriately. Beneficial microbes promote an anti-inflammatory environment. However, when harmful microbes dominate, pro-inflammatory signaling increases. By nurturing a diverse, healthy microbiome, we allow beneficial microbes to flourish and keep inflammation at bay.

It Suppresses Harmful Bacteria and Viruses

Many disease-causing microbes also spark rampant inflammation when they infiltrate and overwhelm the gut. A well-balanced microbiome forms a protective barrier that prevents these invaders from taking over and wreaking inflammatory havoc. The good microbes basically “crowd out” the bad guys through competition. A diverse microbiome with lots of beneficial species keeps inflammation down by limiting pathogens.

It Improves Intestinal Barrier Function

The gut lining contains trillions of cells that provide both a physical and chemical barrier between us and the outside world. This barrier gets damaged fairly easily from things like chronic stress, medication use, infections, or poor diet. When the barrier becomes leaky, bacteria and toxins can flood into the bloodstream, activating full-blown immune responses. Boosting populations of protective microbes – through probiotic supplements or fermented foods – can help shore up intestinal defenses and patch leaky spots. This takes pressure off the immune system and reduces inflammation.

It Produces Anti-Inflammatory Compounds

Certain beneficial microbes create their own anti-inflammatory molecules that directly counteract inflammatory processes in the body. For example, several common probiotic strains crank out antioxidants, nitric oxide, polysaccharide polymers, and short-chain fatty acids – all of which calm inflammation. Nutrient-dense diets provide the fuel these microbes need for manufacturing inflammation-fighting substances.

It Mitigates Autoimmune Reactions

Many researchers now believe autoimmunity originates from an unbalanced microbiome. When gut microbes get disturbed, the immune system misfires and attacks the body’s own tissues. Correcting microbiome irregularities through diet, lifestyle changes, or probiotics may help re-educate rogue immune cells and reduce autoimmune flare-ups. Since runaway autoimmunity always involves inflammation, modulating the microbiome is a promising tool for alleviating it.

It Affects Obesity and Metabolic Health

Obesity generates a low-grade inflammatory state that drives numerous downstream illnesses. Animal and human studies reveal the microbiome’s pivotal role in obesity. An imbalanced gut microbiome promotes weight gain and metabolic dysfunction in many ways, including: altered calorie extraction from food, increased appetite signals, impaired blood sugar control, dysregulated lipid metabolism, and activation of pro-inflammatory immune responses. Supporting a healthy microbiome is critical for maintaining a healthy weight and metabolic function, which in turn keeps inflammation down.

It May Reduce Neuroinflammation

Emerging research highlights a strong link between the gut microbiome and brain inflammation. Gut microbes produce neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which influence emotions and mental health. They also activate signaling pathways that reduce inflammation in the brain. Animal studies show probiotic supplementation and fecal transplants can lessen neuroinflammation and anxiety. More human research is still needed, but influencing the gut microbiome appears promising for relieving inflammation underlying psychiatric issues.

The Takeaway

The gut microbiome plays an indispensable role in controlling inflammation throughout the body. Supporting a diverse, resilient microbial community through probiotic foods, supplements, and lifestyle habits like stress management, regular exercise, and ample sleep offers immense potential for reducing inflammation-fueled disorders.

If you're interested in reaching your health goals, CLICK HERE for a FREE 30-Minute Health Discovery Session. I'll provide you with a personalized approach to taming inflammation and optimizing well-being with holistic nutrition, stress management, and mind-body practices.

Let's talk soon!

I have 3 different memberships to support your self-care, check these out here… https://www.drlaramay.com/memberships Whether you are looking for monthly energy healing, quarterly/seasonal detoxing, or monthly healthy eating recipes, I’ve got you covered.

If you are looking for more personalized help then you can take advantage of my Beta Life Coaching Program on sale right now for $160. 8 sessions in 8 weeks focused on whatever you need most. Here is the link to check it out… https://www.drlaramay.com/store/p/light-body-life-coaching-beta-tester

It is my privilege to be able to guide you along your healing journey. Please feel free to reply and let me know how I can be of service to you.

Namaste,

P.S.: Don’t forget! Join me on my Facebook page, as well as YouTube, Instagram & Twitter @drlaramay.

P.S.S.: Be sure to tune in to my podcast on your favorite platform, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Podbean, or Anchor Fm @Light Body Radio to get all the juicy info coming your way in an easily digestible format. I look forward to hearing your feedback, comments, and suggestions.

Are you finally ready to break up with sugar?

If so, I’ve got the perfect thing!

Grab your FREE guide, 3 Ways to Quit Sugar to give yourself that nudge you need for success.

Say YES to yourself, and grab this FREE guide NOW

Hi, I'm Lara!

(pronounced like Sarah, but with a L)

Are you ready to lose weight, reduce stress, and reinvigorate your life?! Together let’s uncover your motivators for change, and turn your vision for your vibrant future into your new reality.

meet dr. lara