Intestinal Flora

Intestinal Flora consists of microorganisms that live in the digestive tract. The metabolic activities performed by these bacteria resemble those of an organ, leading some to liken gut bacteria to a "forgotten" organ.

Research suggests that the relationship between Intestinal Flora and humans is not merely commensal, but rather is a mutually beneficial symbiotic relationship. The microorganisms perform a host of useful functions, such as fermenting unused energy substrates, training the immune system, preventing growth of harmful, pathogenic bacteria, regulating the development of the gut, producing vitamins for the host (such as Biotin and Vitamin K), and producing hormones to direct the host to store fats.