Intestinal Flora

Microorganisms are in every surface and mucosa of the body. Only the spleen and pancreas should be sterile. The intestines are rich with microorganisms. The flora contains all the bacteria and microorganisms that live in the intestines. A healthy intestinal flora protects from pathogens by physically blocking them out and by strengthening the body’s barrier. The flora blocks out pathogens by blocking receptors, blocking access to nutrients, and by secreting antimicrobial peptides. Flora strengthens the body’s barrier by secreting more mucus so the lungs can excrete the pathogens and by developing a mucosal immune system through commensal bacteria. Microorganisms also have metabolic functions like absorbing vitamins, recycling electrolytes, and they can even digest substances that our bodies are unable to digest.

A healthy flora has the ability to improve pathologies. For example, toxic megacolon can be treated through a fecal transplant from a healthy person. Probiotics are beneficial flora that contain acid-resistant bacteria that can pass through the stomach. Probiotics like lactobacilli can be found in yogurt. Other foods with probiotics include miso, kombucha, sauerkraut, and kimchi. Prebiotics are non-digestible supplements that stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria. Prebiotics can also be found in leeks, bananas, asparagus, onions, and garlic.

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