Bacteria are everywhere. They play an important role in eco-systems, including the eco-system of the body.
There is a vast array of friendly bacteria that happily live in our bodies, co-existing with us for mutual benefit. These bacteria are an integral driver of our ability to maintain good health. If their numbers dwindle, it leaves the door wide open for opportunistic bad bacteria to take up residency in the body and wreak havoc, placing extra stress on the immune system in trying to get rid of them.
So, it is hugely important for optimal well-being to ensure that we have healthy colonisation of friendly bacteria in the body. There are three primary aspects to help assist this:
Avoidance of things that kill off friendly bacteria such as stress, antibiotics, chemical herbicides/pesticides, coffee, tea, fluoride, chlorine, contraceptive medication, carbonated drinks, steroid/hormone drugs, synthetic vitamins, radiation and artificial food additives.
Put beneficial bacteria into the body by means of a good whole-food probiotic, eat fermented foods and probiotic yoghurt, and drink beverages that contain good bacteria such as water kefir.
Feed the friendly bacteria in the gut by eating prebiotic foods and/or taking a good wholefood prebiotic supplement. Prebiotic foods provide good bacteria with the food they need in order to thrive. Foods that contain inulin and fructooligosaccharides are ideal for promoting colonisation of friendly bacteria and deterring detrimental bacteria from taking up residency e.g. onions, leeks, Jerusalem artichokes, dandelion, echinacea, chicory, burdock and asparagus.
Maintaining a healthy microbial profile in your body is one of the most important things you can do to promote total wellness.