would otherwise be snapped up by pathogenic
bacteria.
Balanced gut bacteria is the key here—the
right kinds, in the right amounts. But many
factors can cause our gut’s bacterial
population to become unbalanced—and that
spells trouble.
Bacterial infections, the use of antibiotics,
stress, alcohol, and specific dietary factors
can disrupt the delicate balance of beneficial
bacteria in our gut. If left unchecked, gut
dysbiosis can contribute to a number of health
conditions, including diabetes, obesity,
cancers, and autoimmune disorders.
However, before you go running out to the
store to stock up on (often expensive)
probiotic supplements or buy out your local
health-food market’s sauerkraut supply, a
word of caution.
There are about 500 different species of
bacteria living in your gut.