When the stomach rumbles, grumbles and aches, it has a very big impact on our health and well-being. You can read about the influence that intestinal health has on our body here.
"A strong immune system begins in the intestine," explains nutrition and fasting physician Prof. Dr. Andreas Michalsen, chief physician at Immanuel Hospital in Berlin and professor of naturopathy at Charité.
Did you know that 80 % of the body's entire defense response takes place in the gut? This is where it is decided how well our immune system can fend off attacks from bacteria and viruses.
I found this so exciting that I want to give you a short version.
Those who wish can watch the whole Listen to podcast here directly on the website of the health food store. It lasts half an hour and brought many new insights for me.
What weakens the intestine and health
More and more people have digestive problems.
However, digestion is still considered taboo. And this despite the fact that so many struggle with it. If at all, people talk about it with very good friends.
Many sufferers are even embarrassed to go to a doctor. Fortunately, however, much has improved in this area in recent years.
The reasons for the problems could not be more diverse
- unbalanced diet
- Pathogen
- Food intolerances
- Stress
- Medication
- and mental problems
can cause intestinal discomfort.
How to build up your intestinal flora in 5 steps!
By the way, there are 1 to 2 trillion bacteria in the intestine, which ensure that everything runs smoothly.
The intestine influences our well-being and health to a very high degree, no wonder, since 4 out of 5 defense cells of our body are located here.
It is therefore not only responsible for digestion, but the majority of all the body's defense reactions take place in the intestine. A strong immune system starts in the intestine.
Dr. Michalsen explained in the podcast how interval fasting and a whole-food vegetarian-oriented diet as well as sufficient exercise have an influence on the intestine and thus on health. This bundle of measures can rejuvenate the intestine.
He explains the effect of fasting as follows: "Immediately after fasting, our intestines produce additional immune cells, so you can reduce susceptibility to infections, autoimmune diseases and tumors."
Tip: Gut with charm
If you haven't read the book yet, I highly recommend it. Gut mit Charme by Giulia Enders is a book that approaches the topic with a lot of humor and provides a lot of exciting information. The information is very suitable for everyday use and is presented in a relaxed manner.
It's really fun to read the book and learn something along the way.
Taste these prebiotic foods for a happy gut!
Why dietary fiber is important for health
You have certainly heard of dietary fiber. Even if the word is very negatively loaded, fiber is enormously important for our intestines and thus health.
They not only keep us satiated for a long time, but also ensure that food is transported quickly through the digestive tract. Most people assume that dietary fiber is only found in vegetables and cereals.
But you can also find them, according to Dr. Michalsen, in
- Pseudo cereals like millet, quinoa, buckwheat
- Seeds like Flaxseed*
- Chia*- or Psyllium husks*
- Legumes such as lentils, chickpeas or beans
- and potatoes.
However, you should keep your hands off emulsifiers. They are found in processed foods and can weaken the intestinal mucosa.
Regular exercise and stress reduction are beneficial for bowel activity.
For better digestion: Top 50 fiber foods!
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