The digestive system plays an important role in ensuring that the immune system is functioning at its best. As the main interface with the external environment, it is constantly bombarded by external stimuli, some harmful as pathogens (bacteria, protozoa, fungi, viruses), and some helpful, such as food or commensal flora.

Due to its large number of immune cells, the gastrointestinal system plays a crucial role in the body. Gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) represents almost 70% of the entire immune system and is the most prominent part of mucosal-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT). These fields of research have shown that the gut has superpowers over the mind and immune system. It explains how diet and emotions interact, as well as how diet affects immunity.

Immune cells act as our bodies’ first line of defense against foreign substances, identifying and neutralizing them. Approximately 70-80% of the immune system is located in the gastrointestinal system, which is essential for homeostasis. Every day, our gut is overloaded with stimuli, including dangerous pathogens and toxic substances. Signals from intestinal bacteria activate immune responses and populate the microbiome. This symbiotic relationship ensures the body’s protection and hen our immune system is functioning properly, this intelligent process goes unnoticed. On the flip side, when the body becomes overworked or run down, bad bacteria can swoop in and wreak havoc.

Increased antibiotic use and high-processed diets complicate this process, resulting in an unbalanced microbiome. In order to maintain a healthy immune system, probiotics are essential nutrients, especially those derived from soil.