Understanding Gut Flora Balance and Its Importance

Gut flora balance refers to the equilibrium of the beneficial and harmful microorganisms present in the gastrointestinal tract, essential for digestive health.
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Digestive Health | Probiotics | Microbiome | Microbial Equilibrium
Prepared by Lee Cheng, reviewed by Dr. Helena Rodriguez

Gut Flora Balance FAQ


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What is gut flora?

Gut flora is the slang term given to both good and bad bacteria that live inside your digestive tract. The type and amount of bacteria present depend on their location in your body (small intestine versus colon). As the storage house for stool, your colon is filled with hundreds of different types of bacteria, which have specific jobs to do.

Why is gut flora important?

As stated above, your gut flora are key players in your health. Two of the most important roles have to do with immune system protection and metabolism. For these important functions, there needs to be an optimal preponderance of "friendly" bacteria. Let's take a look at each of these functions in turn:

Can a poor gut flora cause health problems?

It is now recognized that a less than optimal composition of gut flora can contribute to health problems, both digestive and non-digestive. The health problems that for now appear to have direct links to an unhealthy balance of the gut flora, a state known as dysbiosis, include:

Can a diet change your gut flora?

Talk to our experts. The best way to restore gut harmony is with a fibre-rich, nutrient-dense diet. The good news is that you can begin to change your gut flora with your next meal. Research shows that our gut bacteria are very responsive to what we eat and communities begin shifting almost as soon as we change our diets (Source: NCBI).

Can a problem with gut flora correct itself?

Often times, problems with gut flora will correct themselves, and no action is required on your part. However, people facing chronic bowel problems, such as colitis or inflammatory bowel disease, may need more aggressive management of their colon's bacteria.

Gut Flora Balance References

If you want to know more about Gut Flora Balance, consider exploring links below:

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