Fiber: does a lack of dietary fiber affect immunity and the body's defense functions?

Most of the cells of the human immune system are concentrated precisely in the intestine, so its condition directly determines the body's ability to resist viruses and infections. Fiber is the main nutrient medium for the beneficial bacteria inhabiting the colon. When these bacteria receive a sufficient amount of dietary fiber, they ferment it to produce short-chain fatty acids.

These acids serve as the main source of energy for the cells of the intestinal mucosa, strengthening its barrier function. They prevent the penetration of pathogenic microorganisms and toxins into the bloodstream and also regulate inflammatory processes at the systemic level. A deficiency of fiber leads to starvation of the beneficial microflora, its death, and the weakening of the defense barrier.

In conditions of a lack of fiber, the body's overall resistance to seasonal colds decreases and the risk of developing chronic inflammation increases. Regular consumption of a variety of plant foods acts as a reliable investment in strong immunity and long-term health of all organ systems.