Obwohl der Slogan „Verteidigung kommt aus dem Bauch” wie eine künstliche Werbung klingt, enthält er viel Wahrheit. Die Hälfte des Immunsystems befindet sich im Darm. Die Zusammensetzung der Darmflora beeinflusst die Abwehrfunktionen. Was schadet der Darmflora und somit schwächt die Verteidigungsmechanismen? Wie kann man das verhindern?
The gut's impact on the immune system
The small intestine is primarily recognized as a vital component of the digestive system, primarily responsible for breaking down and absorbing nutrients. However, it also plays a crucial role in maintaining the proper functioning of the immune system, which safeguards our body from harmful pathogens on a daily basis. Beyond its digestive function, the small intestine serves as an essential organ of the immune system, as approximately 80% of all immunoglobulins (immune cells) are produced within it. Additionally, more than half of all circulating lymphocytes (cells of the immune system) are located in the intestines. Consequently, it is no surprise that the "center" of our immune defense resides in the gut. This is where daily interactions occur between the external environment (food, liquids, and bacteria) and the internal milieu. To effectively manage the constant influx of pathogens, the gut has developed defensive mechanisms that prevent harmful substances from passing from the intestinal lumen into the bloodstream. These mechanisms include the intestinal barrier, composed of gut microbiota, GALT (gut-associated lymphoid tissue), and so-called tight junctions between intestinal epithelial cells, whose selective permeability allows only beneficial substances to enter the bloodstream.
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