Several studies show how important an intact gut is for the immune defense against COVID-19
The coronavirus has become an integral part of our lives. The so-called XEC variant of the coronavirus is currently spreading more and more, especially in Germany, Austria and other parts of Europe. Although lockdowns and strict measures are a thing of the past, the virus continues to evolve and remains part of the viral landscape.
The latest findings now show that the gut plays a far more central role in the defense against corona infections than previously assumed: an intact microbiome can significantly strengthen the immune system , but is only effective if the gut is unencumbered and its barrier function – consisting of the intestinal wall and intestinal mucosa – remains intact.
In addition to building up the microbiome, zeolite can also have a supportive effect here, as the natural volcanic rock relieves the intestine, promotes the natural barrier function and thus provides the basis for an intact microbiome.
Gut health as the key to immune defense – protection in times of new virus variants
In view of the ongoing coronavirus infection dynamics, it is becoming increasingly clear that a healthy immune system is not a minor matter – it is the central linchpin in countering coronavirus infections and warding off possible consequences such as long Covid or post-Covid.
Recent studies clearly show that the gut plays a crucial role as the “center of the immune system”. Those who do not pay attention to their intestinal health risk weak points that make the immune system vulnerable. The latest research findings show that a robust intestinal flora is essential for the immune system. In times of highly agile virus variants such as XEC, this protective factor could even make the decisive difference.
Corona doesn’t just affect the lungs – the intestines are always affected too
Although coronaviruses primarily attack the lungs, their effects can also be seen in other organs: the heart, skin and kidneys are often affected and the intestine in particular, as the center of our immune system – it is now assumed that around 80 percent of our immune system is located in the intestine – is also a target of the mutating viruses. In fact, around 60 percent of those affected report digestive problems and it has now been proven that a SARS-CoV-2 infection can permanently disrupt the delicate balance of intestinal functions and that the consequences of these disorders often persist beyond the infection. This manifests itself in long-Covid and post-Covid diseases, which are still difficult to treat.
A healthy intestinal barrier and an intact intestinal microbiome – the underestimated defense center
An intact gut microbiome is crucial for our health. The diversity of microorganisms in the gut is responsible for the performance of our immune system. However, poor diet, prolonged stress, medication and genetic factors influence the microbiome, and severely ill COVID-19 patients in particular often show significant changes in this microbial diversity. A weakened microbiome can affect the immune response throughout the body and increase the risk of secondary diseases.
The lung-gut axis – how COVID-19 unbalances the gut
There is a close connection between the lungs and intestines, the so-called lung-gut axis. Through this bidirectional axis, COVID-19 disease can severely disrupt the gut microbiome, weakening the immune system and promoting complications. Dysbiosis in the gut – i.e. an imbalance in the gut flora – can also increase the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes or inflammatory bowel disease. A study from China showed that in the case of dysbiosis after COVID-19, beneficial bacteria decreased significantly, while pro-inflammatory microorganisms increased.
Intestinal strengthening as a preventive and accompanying measure – probiotics and zeolite as allies for the immune system
The knowledge about the connection between corona infections and the gut microbiome opens up new avenues in the prevention as well as in the adjuvant, additive treatment of corona infections.
Furthermore, intensive research is being conducted worldwide into how and whether probiotics can strengthen the microbiome of those affected and promote anti-inflammatory effects. Previous studies indicate that a strengthened intestinal flora can make a significant contribution to alleviating the symptoms of coronavirus infections and reducing the risk of severe outcomes.
Zeolite can provide valuable support to optimally prepare the gut for the effects of probiotics. The natural mineral reliably binds heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, mercury and arsenic, as well as the light metal aluminum and toxic metabolic products such as ammonium.
Ammonium is produced during the digestion of proteins, among other things, and can have a toxic effect in high quantities if it is not broken down. By binding these harmful substances, zeolite relieves the intestines and strengthens the intestinal wall. This makes the intestinal barrier stable again, allowing the probiotics to settle effectively on the intestinal mucosa and develop their full potential for healthy intestinal flora.
Studies – Sources:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8359639
https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/23/18/10451
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33431578
