Digestive System and Immunity
According to Dr. Pham Le Duy, a healthy digestive system plays a crucial role in overall well-being. A healthy digestive system is characterized by a high proportion of beneficial bacteria in the gut microbiota, ideally 85% beneficial bacteria to 15% harmful bacteria.
The bacteria residing in the gut create a complex ecosystem that influences the entire body’s functions, including the immune system. Approximately 70-80% of the body’s immune cells are concentrated in the gut. The immune system, which also includes white blood cells circulating in the blood and throughout organs like the nose, throat, and lungs, defends the body against pathogens, including the viruses that cause the flu.
Beneficial gut bacteria produce antibodies, enhance immune cell function, and form a protective barrier against harmful bacteria and viruses.
Dr. Duy further explains that the gut microbiome develops from birth, based on the microbiome inherited from the mother. This microbiome then continues to evolve and diversify throughout life, adapting to individual environments and habits.
Unhealthy habits, such as consuming processed foods, a lack of fruits and vegetables, and stress, as well as antibiotic use, can disrupt the delicate balance of gut bacteria. Environmental pollution also contributes to the overgrowth of harmful bacteria, which can easily enter the body through food and compete with beneficial bacteria.
An imbalance in the gut microbiome negatively impacts the immune system, weakening the body’s defenses. “Maintaining a healthy diet and supplementing with beneficial bacteria daily will help maintain the optimal balance of gut bacteria,” emphasizes Dr. Duy.
Food not only nourishes the body but also provides nourishment for gut bacteria. Fiber from fruits and vegetables, healthy fats from nuts and olive oil, support the growth of beneficial bacteria. However, these nutrients may not be sufficient for optimal gut microbiome development and stability. In addition to providing food for beneficial bacteria, people should regularly supplement with probiotic strains to further support their gut health.
Various foods contain probiotics, such as yogurt, cheese, kimchi, and natto. However, the highly acidic environment of the stomach can kill many beneficial bacteria before they reach the intestines. Products containing probiotic strains with a high survival rate in the stomach are ideal for supplementing gut bacteria. Lactobacillus paracasei, or L.Casei 431, is a frequently used probiotic strain.
Dr. Duy notes that over 90 scientific studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of this probiotic strain in the gut, with a high survival rate after passing through the stomach and small intestine, allowing it to effectively colonize the large intestine.
L.Casei 431 can potentially enhance IgG (Immunoglobulin G) antibodies in the blood after flu vaccination. IgG is one of the five types of antibodies produced by the body to defend against external pathogens.
In Vietnam, L. Casei 431 is incorporated into Vinamilk Probi, a probiotic drinking yogurt, at a concentration of 65 billion live beneficial bacteria per 65ml pack (13 billion per 65ml bottle). Vinamilk Probi with L. Casei 431 is reported to increase IgG antibody levels by 30%, strengthening immunity. The product is also recommended by the Vietnam Medical Association. Vinamilk Probi also offers additional probiotic supplements with ingredients that benefit mental well-being, digestion, and appetite.
While seasonal flu is generally considered a mild illness, it can lead to serious complications, particularly for individuals with weakened immune systems, the elderly, children, and pregnant women. The virus can spread rapidly, so prevention is crucial through timely vaccination, wearing masks, frequent sanitation, and minimizing exposure to potential cases. Moreover, maintaining a healthy diet is essential for strengthening immunity.
