Good vs. Bad Gut Bacteria: Here's What You Need to Know

Your gut is home to a complex ecosystem containing trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria. However, while some of these microscopic residents are beneficial, others can cause trouble.

A healthy balance between good and bad bacteria is essential to keep your digestive system running like it should. When this delicate equilibrium is disrupted, it can lead to a host of issues, from bloating and diarrhea to more serious digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

By stimulating specific acupoints, acupuncture can help restore balance to your gut microbiome. At Elemental Acupuncture, Bethany M. Leddy, MD helps you achieve optimal digestive health through the power of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Dr. Leddy also offers microbiome testing. 

Are uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms interrupting your daily life? Here’s what you need to know about what’s going on in your gut — and how ancient wisdom may hold the solution.

The power of beneficial bacteria

Beneficial bacteria are tiny allies in your intestines that work tirelessly to break down food and absorb essential nutrients. They also act as a natural defense mechanism, preventing harmful pathogenic bacteria from taking hold.

While your digestive system already contains small, typically harmless amounts of bad bacteria, a healthy balance of good bacteria keeps them in check. Factors like antibiotic use can disrupt this balance, allowing the bad bacteria to proliferate and cause illness.

A diverse microbiome, rich in multiple beneficial bacterial strains, is key to proper gut health. Probiotics, such as lactobacillus and bifidobacterium, are live bacteria that can be introduced to your gut through fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and kimchi or through supplements.

An unhealthy microbiome can manifest in a variety of ways, from common digestive issues to more surprising symptoms. These signs may indicate an imbalance in your gut:

• Abdominal (stomach) pain
• Bloating and cramping
• Gaining or losing weight
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis

Ancient wisdom for modern gut health

Studies show that acupuncture can promote a healthier gut microbiome by enhancing the communication between your digestive system and brain. Here’s how this ancient technique works to improve your gut health:

Boosting your immunity

Acupuncture gives your immune system a boost by activating the body’s natural defenses. This provides essential protection against harmful gut bacteria and viruses.

Reducing inflammation

Chronic inflammation damages the gut lining and disrupts the delicate balance of the microbiome. Acupuncture reduces inflammation by modulating your body’s inflammatory response, promoting a healthier, calmer environment in your digestive tract.

Improving digestion

Acupuncture treatments stimulate the digestive system by regulating the production of digestive enzymes and improving circulation. This makes it easier for your body to process the food you eat and absorb vital nutrients.

Soothing stress

Stress can wreak havoc on your gut microbiome. Acupuncture, with its stress-reducing properties, can restore balance to your nervous system. By calming your mind and body, acupuncture can help reduce stress-related gastrointestinal symptoms like indigestion and acid reflux.

Microbiome testing is also available and can help determine what is out of balance in the microbiome. Dietary changes and supplements are recommended to help encourage rebalancing.

Depending on the specifics of your condition, Dr. Leddy may also recommend Chinese herbal medicine to complement your acupuncture treatment. To learn more about the benefits of acupuncture, or message us. We have offices in New York City and Tuckahoe, New York.