70% of your immune system resides in your gut, so it makes sense that researchers would look to the microbiome and its relationship to Covid-19 infections. Previous studies have shown that a healthy gut microbiome can improve your immune response to respiratory infections, so it makes sense that it also influences one's immune responses to Covid-19.

"Studies have shown a significant difference in the gut microbiome between COVID patients and healthy people. We see a reduction in bacterial diversity in the gut in COVID patients – so a smaller range of species, as well as substantial differences in the species of bacteria present."

Studies suggest this imbalance of gut bacteria, known as dysbiosis, is linked to the movement of gut bacteria into the blood during Covid-19 infections. One study in mice showed that Covid-19 caused changes in a variety of parameters associated with gut barrier permeability, meaning things can move more easily through the gut wall.

"In 20% of human COVID patients in this same study, certain bacteria from the gut had migrated into the bloodstream. This group was at higher risk of developing a secondary infection in the blood."

Gut dysbiosis following Covid-19 may contribute to long-Covid, which makes sense because of the constant state of heightened inflammation caused by dysbiosis.

If you are looking to protect your immune system, consider a nutrient-dense diet such as a Mediterranean diet, with plenty of vitamins such as A, C, D, and E, iron, zinc, and omega-3s, along with moderate exercise. Further balance your microbiome with probiotic-rich foods like kombucha, kimchi, or sauerkraut.

Protect Your Gut-Brain Connection