Did you know our gut is home to more than 100 trillion microorganisms? The gut contains 10 times more bacteria than all the human cells in the entire body with over 400 known diverse bacterial species. The intestinal mircroflora aids in digestion, synthesizes vitamins and nutrients, metabolizes some medications, and comprises more than 75% of our immune system. Unfortunately, modern lifestyle choices are causing a rapid loss of diversity and shift in the composition of the gut flora resulting in diseases such as obesity, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmune disorders, depression, and food sensitivities. Take steps to maintain a healthy gut by taking steps to manage stress, avoiding a diet high in refined sugars and processed foods, eating a diet high in fiber and fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, and tempeh, and talk to your doctor about taking a high quality multi-species probiotic.