Healthy Gut Microbiom and COVID-19

The human microbiome is the world of microorganisms that live all over your digestive system, primarily in your intestines. It is a mix of more than 100 trillion bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa that live inside and on our bodies. We have ten times more microbial cells in our body than human cells. The bacteria in our microbiomes play essential roles in everyday biological processes and are necessary to human health—they help regulate the immune system, protect against disease-causing microbes, make crucial vitamins, and derive energy from food.

With news that a COVID-19 (the illness caused by the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2) vaccine is not anticipated for about a year, and as you protect yourself from the virus on the outside, you should look at enhancing your defenses from the inside by boosting the immune system. One thing that you can manage directly is the health of the trillions of microbes inhabiting your gut, generally called the microbiome.

A new study has revealed that the gut microbiome plays a significant function in overcoming infection and preserving overall health.

For a balanced, healthy, happy gut, add these foods to your daily diet

1. Fermented vegetables are high in probiotics, and are excellent fuel for the good bacteria and fungi in your gut microbiome.

2. The study revealed that garlic could enhance the development of good gut bacteria, such as Bifidobacteria, s a result of the prebiotic properties of garlic.

3. Broccoli can improve intestinal health when it’s eaten as part of a regular diet.

4. Apples are a delicious fruit with multiple prebiotic benefits.

5. Kefir and yogurt are two of the best foods you can eat to feed the good bacteria and fungi in your gut microbiome.

6. Flaxseeds, These seeds also contain soluble fiber and can help move things along through your digestive tract

In conclusion, the microbiome is a medium that can boost your immune system against a multitude of infections including COVID-19, consuming a variety of plant-based and fiber-rich foods are considered the optimum way to enhance the diversity of microbiome with limitation of eating junk foods and ultra-processed food.