Gut Health and the Immune System

Let’s discuss the link between gut health and the immune system and how drinking apple cider vinegar for gut health is beneficial.

What is the gut microbiome?

The gut has a large effect on your body, being responsible for your cognitive function, metabolism, digestive health and even your behaviour etc.

There’s an estimation of just over 100 trillion microbial cells living in your gut, which is 10 times the amount of human cells we have proving that we are more bacteria than humans!

What is your immune system?

Your immune system is essentially there to protect your body from any harm. Consisting of cells, proteins and organs all working together to protect your body from any viruses, germs and fungi. The immune cells are basically the first line of defence against any harm. 

When your immune system is low or weak, this is when the bad bacteria can make you ill as there’s nothing there/ nothing strong enough to fight it off. Healthy gut bacteria is great for the immune system!

does the immune system start in the gut?

Having a healthy gut is vital for a healthy immune system.

In fact, did you know that over 70% of your immune system is located in your gut? It’s important to look after your gut and ensure a healthy diet to avoid any attack on your immune system. 

According to a recent study by scientists and the ZOE COVID Symptom Study, they found that people who ate a gut-friendly diet with lots of plant-based foods were 40% less likely to have more severe systems of COVID than those who ate a less gut-friendly diet.

What is the immune system and gut connection?

Gut health and the immune system is closely linked. The immune cells living in your gut communicate with your microbiome and the diverse bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract are directly affected by your diet and lifestyle.

Eating well strengthens your immune cells and eating badly can weaken your immune cells due to affecting the diversity of the bacteria within your gut. 

Signs of an unhealthy gut

1. Irregular bowel movement

2. Stomach pains after eating processed foods

3. Discomfort after consuming gluten

4. Feeling low (95% of serotonin is found in your small intestine)

gut friendly food to boost your immune system

– Citrus fruits (high in vitamin C)

– Bell peppers (contain beta carotene, which your body converts into vitamin A)

– Broccoli (packed with vitamins A, C & E. Rich in fibre and many other antioxidants)

– Garlic (contains concentrated sulphur, such as allicin)

– Ginger (can help reduce inflammation and help with nausea)

– Greek yoghurt (a great source of vitamin D)

– Turmeric (an anti-inflammatory)