Microbiome Is Essential forA Well-functioning Immune System
Did you know that having a healthy gut microbiome is essential for a well-functioning immune system. In fact, today’s hottest immunotherapy cancer drugs are much less effective when they are used in patients with an unhealthy gut microbiome? Simply taking a generic, over-the-counter probiotic is not a good solution, as this has been shown to make immunotherapy drugs even less effective. So, how do we improve the health of our gut microbiome?
The gastrointestinal tract is the body’s largest immune organ and the main barrier between you and the 38 trillion microbes living inside you (your intestinal microbiome) plus the toxic substances you consume.
A diversity and balance of beneficial gut organisms help maintain an anti-inflammatory environment; conversely, low microbial diversity or an overgrowth of pathogenic organisms can cause intestinal inflammation. And when your gut microbiome is compromised, chemotherapy and immunotherapy may not work as well.
• Chronic stress
• Poor sleep
• Not eating enough fiber or prebiotic foods
• Eating too many high-glycemic carbohydrates
• Certain medications, including antibiotics, immunotherapies, chemotherapy, steroids, NSAIDs, acid blockers
• Food sensitivities or allergies
• High-salt intake
• Fried foods
• Alcohol consumption
• Smoking
• Toxins, pesticides, and certain preservatives in food and water
• Lack of physical activity
• Lack of dietary variety
• Frequent eating
The immune system is a veritable nutrient hog and requires a steady supply of foods that deliver the raw materials it needs to work, including foods that nourish our beneficial gut bacteria. Here’s how to feed your immune system:
• Eat fermented foods and drinks that contain live bacteria (also known as probiotics). *Don’t use generic, over-the-counter probiotic supplements…customized probiotics that are tailored to your microbiome are much better.
• Eat high-quality protein, such as eggs, fish, seafood, and meat, ideally grass-fed or pastured. Low protein intake can result in depletion of immune cells, the inability of the body to make antibodies, and other immune-related problems.
• Increase your intake of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fats such as those found in fatty fish, flaxseed, and chia seeds. Omega-3s improve the function of white blood cells that engulf and digest cancer cells, among others, and are associated with tumor inhibition.
• Get enough vitamins A, E, K, C, B5, folic acid, B6, B1, B2, B12. Eating a wide variety of vegetables and fruits is the best way to get these vitamins, as well as minerals, antioxidants, and enzymes.
Learn more about optimizing gut health in our book, “Empowered Against Cancer: Science-Based Strategies To Optimize Your Treatments and Thrive – A Practical Guide.” You can preorder the e-book now. The print and e-book versions will be published April 16, 2022. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09T28X6BQ/
Subscribe To Our Newsletter
Question? Want more info? Excited to learn more?
No spam here! Send us a review, read new articles we post & learn more from our authors.
