The Importance of Intestinal Health and Microbiota
For years, health prevention focused on specific organs. Today, scientific evidence highlights the gut as a central pillar of well-being. In it resides the intestinal microbiota, a trillion-microorganism ecosystem that impacts digestion, the immune system, metabolism, and mental health.
Expert Insights from Liz Memun, Functional Nutrition Specialist
Liz Memun, a functional nutrition specialist and spokesperson for Lifeway, explained during the “Healthy Reset by Lifeway” wellness experience that taking care of intestinal health is one of the most effective long-term preventive strategies.
The intestines not only process what we eat; they are a regulatory center that communicates with the brain, hormones, and the immune system,” said Liz Memun.
She emphasized that when the microbiota is in balance, the body responds better to chronic inflammation, infections, and metabolic imbalances.
Memun pointed out that the challenge arises after periods of excess, such as December holiday seasons, where consumption of ultra-processed foods, alcohol, sugar increases, and sleep patterns are disrupted. These practices favor intestinal dysbiosis, a condition associated with inflammation, fatigue, abdominal distension, and decreased daily energy.
Preventive Measures for a Healthy Gut
In an interview with El Economista, Memun explained that from a preventive perspective, intestinal health begins with small, sustained adjustments.
- A diet rich in fiber—fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains—promotes bacterial diversity.
- Include fermented foods like kéfir, natural yogurt, or sauerkraut, which provide probiotics and support the recovery of digestive balance.
Intestinal well-being also depends on lifestyle. Chronic stress and insufficient rest directly affect the intestines through the gut-brain axis.
Restarting habits isn’t just about changing your diet; it’s also about how you live your daily life
Memun considered that effective prevention involves:
- Listening to your body
- Identifying early signs like recurring inflammation or persistent fatigue
- Acting before imbalance turns into disease
Caring for the microbiota is a daily investment in energy, mental clarity, and future health.
“Prevention begins in the gut: when the microbiota is in balance, it improves digestion, daily energy, and the body’s ability to adapt after periods of excess,” Memun concluded.
