Intestinal flora has a direct impact on our immune system. Within the mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract lies over 60% of the immune system and more than 80% of the immunoglobulin producing blasts and plasma cells. Scientists are now discovering that gut flora also plays a role in glucose sensitivity and insulin resistance. Studies have demonstrated that consuming probiotics reduces insulin resistance. One study, looking at the effects of probiotics on patients with Type II Diabetes, found that those who consumed probiotics had higher gluthathione plasma levels. Gluthathione is a powerful antioxidant that protects the body against free radical damage and is a crucial component of detoxification.
This article highlights the fact that eating foods rich in probiotic bacteria, such as fermented dairy probiotics, is beneficial for many aspects of human health and in this instance, especially beneficial for preventing Type II Diabetes. Yogurt (without added sugar) and cottage cheese are not the only foods that deliver this benefit though and can be easily substituted, especially if one is intolerant to dairy products. Fermented vegetables such as sauerkraut and kimchi provide billions of beneficial bacteria and also aid in digestion and absorption. A high quality, multi-strain probiotic would also have the same effect. The benefits of probiotics and fermented foods are wide and varied and should be incorporated into a healthy diet.