(CNN)Bacteria, viruses, yeasts, parasites in the intestines? It may sound like a nightmare, but experts say this collection of microorganisms is actually a health necessity.
The microbial flora, called the microbial flora, is made up of us and the millions of organisms that live on us, and is strategic and innovative at Columbia University's Faculty of Nursing. Elizabeth Corwin, Vice Dean of Research, said. And a healthy microbial flora is an important part of health.
Corwin added that it affects the immune system and helps synthesize important vitamins in the gut. These organisms can also provide protection, heal wounds, kill bad pathogens, and help certain medicines function more effectively, infections, immunity and respiratory organs at the University of Manchester, UK. Sina Crackshank, a professor in the department of medicine, said.
Microbiota care can help with many symptoms, including allergies, asthma, and autoimmune diseases, Cruickshank said.
So where do you start? How can I get a better microbial flora?
“A good microbial flora really means a diverse microbial flora,” says Cruickshank. "Many illnesses tend to be associated with a lack of diversity."
She and Corwin shared an easy way to increase microbial diversity in your life.
How about a dog?
Looking for an excuse to adopt a dog? here it is.
Studies show that dogs share a microbiota with their homes, Corwin said. Growing up with dogs has been shown to be less likely to develop asthma and allergies, Cruickshank said.
And she added that caring for pets is a fun way to exchange bacteria. Just having animals around will help.
“There is also a microbiota in our building and the surrounding air,” says Cruickshank. "It has been suggested that the local microbiota is a little more diverse and may be good for our lung health."
Sorry for cats, but Corwin says dogs are microbiota. He said it seems to be the most useful pet for the flora.
Relieve stress
One of the important health factors of the microbial flora is intestinal leakage, or permeability.
Although everyone's intestines are somewhat permeable, some people's intestines are more leaky than others, Corwin said. If your gut leaks healthy and useful microbes, that's okay, she added. However, leaking more toxic microorganisms can activate immune cells waiting outside and cause inflammation.
So how does your stress work?
"One of our stress hormones, high cortisol, can actually increase bowel leaks," Corwin said. "If you live under high stress, your gut may be more leaky."
Change your diet
Healthy microbial flora Experts say that a high-fiber, diverse diet is important.
Microbiota loves fiber-rich foods, such as fruits and vegetables, Corwin said. She added that the fiber is not fully digested in the stomach and tends to be further broken down by microorganisms and travels through the intestines.
Fermented foods often feed on live bacteria and can be useful, says Cruickshank. However, while some studies have shown effectiveness, it is difficult to know for sure whether you intend to get useful bacteria from the fermented foods you eat, as the batches can vary widely.
Cruickshank is worried about the microbiota of people who are limiting foods, either because they are on a diet or because they rely on high-fat, convenient foods, she said. Said.
"If you have a different diet with lots of fruits and vegetables, you can eat and enjoy different things," says Cruickshank. "The easiest thing we can do is to have a well-balanced diet."
What about probiotics?
Maybe. Probiotics are often the first thing to think about when talking about gut health, but there is mixed evidence of how effective probiotics are, Cruickshank said.
After antibiotics, it is often recommended to supplement with good bacteria that can be killed with bad bacteria with medicines.
