Microbiome: The Importance Of Intestinal Flora For Our Health

Our intestinal health plays a crucial role in our wellbeing. A healthy gut is the key to a strong immune defence and efficient digestion. Around 80 % of our immune responses originate in the gut, which is why the health of this organ is of crucial importance.

The multifacted role of the gut

Our gut is more than just a digestive organ. It plays a crucial role in the utilisation of food, the defence against toxins and pathogens and the regulation of our immune system. The gut harbours a diverse community of microorganisms that support us in various bodily functions.

The fascinating world of gut bacteria 

Billions of bacteria, fungi and viruses populate our gut and form a complex community that has evolved with us over millions of years. These microorganisms fulfil a variety of tasks, including supporting food absorption, regulating the immune system and protecting against harmful pathogens.

The difference between microbiome and gut flora

The microbiome is a generic term for the totality of all microorganisms in and on our body. The intestinal flora, also known as the gut microbiome, is the best-known group of these microorganisms. In addition to the gut, there is also skin flora, oral flora and many other microbiomes in our body.

Prebiotics, Probiotics & Postbiotics 

The terms prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics are often used in connection with gut health. Prebiotics are nutrients that are utilised by gut bacteria to produce energy. Probiotics are the beneficial bacteria that live in our guts, and postbiotics are the substances produced by these bacteria that have various functions in the body.

The importance of the microbiome for our health

Our microbiome has an influence on our ability to extract energy from food and make it available to the body. The composition of our microbiome influences how well we can absorb and utilise food components.

The effects of antibiotics on the microbiome 

Antibiotics are effective against harmful bacteria, but they can also affect the beneficial bacteria in our gut. Prolonged and excessive use of antibiotics can lead to a disturbed intestinal flora. It is important to rebuild the intestinal flora after antibiotic treatment.

The role of diet and lifestyle

Our diet and lifestyle play a crucial role in shaping our microbiome. A balanced diet and exposure to a diverse environment are important to promote a healthy microbiome.

The influence of birth on the microbiome

The timing of first contact with the microbiome plays a significant role in our gut health. During birth, newborns have their first contact with the mother’s microorganisms, which lays the foundation for their gut health. Natural birth and breastfeeding help to build the baby’s microbiome.

Challenges and diseases of the gut

Various factors, including genetic predisposition, diet, environment and stress, can lead to gut problems. These include lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance, irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease.

The care of intestinal health

There are various ways to support gut health. These include the targeted intake of probiotics, prebiotics and postbiotics, a balanced diet, minimising stress and avoiding excessive use of antibiotics. It is important to consult a doctor if you have problems with your gut health in order to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Where can I go to optimise my gut health?

Those of you in the know are fully versed about the benefits of a Mayr Cure, a draconian fasting programme that focuses on attaining optimum gut health which also, as a by-product, leads to weight loss, better wellbeing and glowing skin, healing from the inside out. Rustic, no nonsense retreats offering this Cure have long attracted a huge following across the globe, with disciples coming in their droves for their annual pilgrimage to kick-start body cleansing and to prepare for a year of better health and wellbeing.

Then along came the Lanserhof Group, who raised the bar to another stratosphere. They rolled out Medical Retreats of the highest calibre such as Lanserhof Lans, Lanserhof Sylt and Lanserhof Tegernsee, which not only offer the ultimate in luxury with every mod con, but crucially programmes and diagnostics that cater across the wellness spectrum. There are Sleep Programmes, DNA Analysis, Women and Men’s check-ups, and full body MOTs, and there is even a Psychology Wing to help you cope with stress. They are always on the front foot when it comes to the newest and best treatments and analysis, always ahead of the pack.