We are delighted to continue our collaboration with MUDr. Tamara Danailova, founder of Mitamedical – a doctor dedicated to functional medicine and a holistic approach to health in her practice. This time, she brings a holistic perspective on health, emphasizing the importance of connecting digestion and immunity as one functional unit.
In this section, we focus on the digestive system and gut microbiome – key factors that influence not only nutrient processing and absorption but also the body's immune response, inflammatory processes, and overall balance.
To support digestion and immunity, MUDr. Danailova recommends natural steps, including a balanced diet rich in fiber and fermented foods, adequate exercise, sleep, stress management, and appropriate supplementation, which includes our Bitter – a liquid nutritional supplement.
If you haven't read the first part on liver, digestion, and body balance, we recommend starting there.
→ Read the first part
Digestion and Immunity
The digestion process begins in the oral cavity, where both mechanical and chemical processing of food occurs. Subsequently, food passes through the esophagus via peristaltic movements into the stomach, where it is further broken down by hydrochloric acid (HCl) and the enzyme pepsin.
Chemical digestion continues in the small intestine. Enzymes produced by the pancreas (trypsin, amylase, lipase), along with bile from the liver and gallbladder, break down proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Bile emulsifies fats into small droplets, increasing their surface area and facilitating lipase activity.
Nutrient absorption also takes place in this part of the digestive tract. Villi and microvilli in the intestinal lining significantly increase the absorptive surface, allowing nutrients (amino acids, glucose, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals) to enter the bloodstream or lymph.
In the large intestine, most water and electrolytes are absorbed. Intestinal bacteria ferment undigested food residues, particularly carbohydrates, producing gases and certain vitamins (such as vitamin K and B vitamins). Indigestible residues, bacteria, and dead cells form stool, which is then stored in the rectum before elimination.
The Gut Microbiome
The gut microbiome represents a complex ecosystem of bacteria, archaea, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. It plays a crucial role in digestion, vitamin synthesis, protection against pathogens, and the regulation of immune and metabolic processes.
The microbiome ferments indigestible polysaccharides, modifies bile acids, and produces bioactive substances such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). These metabolites are essential for maintaining the integrity of the intestinal barrier, proper functioning of the immune system, and overall metabolism of the organism. The balance and diversity of the gut microbiota are therefore fundamental to good health.
Dysbiosis
Dysbiosis refers to an imbalance in the gut microbiome. It can manifest as reduced microbial diversity, overgrowth of pathogenic species, or a decrease in beneficial bacteria. Typical symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation.
Dysbiosis can lead to impaired nutrient absorption, nutrient deficiencies, and increased intestinal permeability. Damage to the intestinal barrier disrupts immune tolerance, leading to systemic immune activation and chronic inflammation. This condition can contribute to the development of various diseases.
For example, it plays a role in the development of inflammatory bowel diseases, irritable bowel syndrome, metabolic disorders (such as obesity or diabetes), as well as cardiovascular, autoimmune, and neuropsychiatric diseases, allergies, and skin problems.
Factors that negatively affect the gut microbiome and intestinal barrier:
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excessive alcohol consumption
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infections
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use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
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chronic stress
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excessive intake of sugar and food additives (carrageenan, sucralose, aspartame, artificial colors, preservatives, etc.)
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broad-spectrum antibiotics
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corticosteroids
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hormonal contraception
How to support the gut microbiome:
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Diet rich in fiber (prebiotics)
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Consumption of fermented foods (probiotics)
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Sufficient intake of clean water
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Limiting processed foods and sugar
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Using antibiotics only after medical examination and confirmation of inflammation
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Regular exercise, quality sleep, breathing exercises, and stress management
How can Bitter support digestion and our immunity?
Some microorganisms (especially certain bacteria, viruses, or parasites) have the ability to suppress or bypass the immune system, meaning they have an "immunosuppressive effect." This helps them survive in the body without being quickly destroyed.
However, when conditions change, a situation may arise where:
• microbes lose this ability (e.g., due to treatment or changes in the body's environment),
• their number decreases,
• or the immune system strengthens and begins to react more effectively.
In such a case, we can say that the immune system regains control.
Thanks to Bitter and its special combination of herbs and organic oils, the immunosuppressive functions of microbes can be weakened, allowing the immune system to regain control.
This strengthens defenses and resistance to infections, as well as dampening inflammation in the body.
Bitter maintains microbiome balance and supports digestive processes.
