How the Gut Microbiome Affects Digestive Health and Immunity

Written by: Tennant Products Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Patsy Scott, CHN (Certified Holistic Nutritionist)
Last Updated: February 2026

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Your Gut is Like a Garden: If You Don’t Tend It, Weeds Will Grow

The gut microbiome plays a central role in digestion, immune defense, metabolism, and even communication with the brain. When the gut barrier and microbial balance are disrupted, symptoms such as bloating, fatigue, cravings, and inflammation may follow.

This article explains how the gut microbiome works, what may disrupt it, what “leaky gut” means in clinical terms, and how supplements for digestive health may support overall gut function.

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TL;DR

• The gut microbiome consists of trillions of bacteria and other microbes that influence digestion, immunity, metabolism, and brain signaling.
  

• An imbalance in gut bacteria, called dysbiosis, may be associated with inflammation and digestive symptoms.
  

• Factors such as antibiotics, chronic stress, processed foods, and environmental exposures may influence gut microbial diversity.
  

• Increased intestinal permeability, often referred to as “leaky gut,” involves changes in tight junction function in the intestinal lining.
  

• Supplements for digestive health may support gut barrier integrity, microbial balance, and immune modulation when used appropriately.
  

• Work with a healthcare professional before starting digestive health supplements, especially if you have autoimmune or gastrointestinal conditions.

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What Is the Gut Microbiome?

The gut microbiome refers to the collection of microorganisms that live primarily in the digestive tract. These microbes assist with:

• Breaking down certain fibers and producing short-chain fatty acids
  

• Supporting immune system signaling
  

• Influencing metabolic processes
  

• Communicating with the brain through the gut-brain axis
  

Research continues to explore how microbial diversity is linked to health outcomes. Greater diversity is generally associated with resilience and balanced immune responses.

Why Digestive Health Matters Beyond Digestion

The gut does more than process food. It plays a role in:

• Immune system regulation
  

• Hormone signaling
  

• Mood and cognitive function
  

• Nutrient absorption
  

Approximately 70 percent of immune tissue activity is associated with the gastrointestinal tract. For this reason, maintaining good digestive health may influence broader systemic health.

Factors That May Influence Gut Microbial Balance

1. Antibiotic Exposure

Antibiotics are sometimes necessary and life-saving. However, they may also temporarily reduce beneficial bacterial populations. Some studies suggest that microbial diversity can take months to recover after antibiotic exposure.

2. Diet Patterns

Highly processed foods, low fiber intake, and excessive sugar consumption may negatively influence microbial diversity. Fiber-rich foods, in contrast, help nourish beneficial bacteria.

3. Chronic Stress

Long-term stress can influence digestive motility, stomach acid production, and intestinal permeability. Stress-related shifts in the nervous system may also impact the gut-brain axis.

4. Artificial Sweeteners

Some research suggests that certain artificial sweeteners may influence gut bacteria composition. More research is ongoing in this area.

5. Environmental Exposures

Pesticide residues and environmental toxins are being studied for potential impacts on microbial populations and intestinal integrity. Current research remains evolving and complex.

What Is “Leaky Gut” or Increased Intestinal Permeability?

“Leaky gut” is a non-medical term often used to describe increased intestinal permeability.

The intestinal lining contains tight junctions that regulate what passes from the gut into the bloodstream. When these tight junctions are disrupted, larger particles may pass through more easily. Research has linked increased permeability to inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, and certain autoimmune conditions.

It is important to note that intestinal permeability is a physiological process that becomes clinically relevant primarily when associated with diagnosed medical conditions.

Symptoms That May Be Associated With Gut Imbalance

Some people experiencing gut dysfunction report:

• Bloating or irregular bowel habits
  

• Food sensitivities
  

• Fatigue
  

• Brain fog
  

• Increased cravings
  

• Skin irritation
  

These symptoms are nonspecific and may have many causes. Proper medical evaluation is recommended for persistent issues.

The Role of Prebiotics and Probiotics

Prebiotics

Prebiotics are fibers that feed beneficial bacteria. They help support short-chain fatty acid production, including butyrate, which plays a role in gut lining support.

Probiotics

Probiotics introduce beneficial strains of bacteria. However, research suggests that probiotic effectiveness depends on individual gut environment, strain selection, and overall digestive conditions.

For some individuals with inflamed or highly reactive digestive systems, a “prebiotic first” approach may be considered under professional guidance.

How Digestive Health Supplements May Support Gut Function

Digestive health supplements may include:

• Prebiotic fibers
  

• Targeted probiotic strains
  

• Antioxidant support
  

• Gut barrier supportive nutrients
  

• Detoxification support ingredients
  

• Fiber blends for bowel regularity
  

When selecting supplements for digestive health, look for:

• Evidence-informed ingredient selection
  

• Transparent labeling
  

• Clinically studied components
  

• Third-party testing
  

• Clear dosing instructions
  

The best supplements for digestive health are those matched to individual needs and used under appropriate guidance.

Types of Natural Digestive Health Supplements

Natural digestive health supplements may include:

• Fiber blends such as larch arabinogalactan
  

• Short-chain fatty acid supporting nutrients
  

• Polyphenol-rich plant compounds
  

• Mucosal barrier supportive nutrients
  

• Antioxidants that help regulate inflammatory signaling
  

Natural supplements for digestive health are intended to support, not replace, a nutrient-dense diet and lifestyle habits.

How Dr. Tennant’s® Microbiome Support Fits Into a Digestive Health Plan

Dr. Tennant’s® Microbiome Support is formulated as a prebiotic-focused digestive health supplement designed to support gut barrier integrity and microbial balance.

Rather than functioning primarily as a probiotic formula, it emphasizes nutrients that help nourish existing beneficial bacteria and support intestinal lining structure.

This approach may be helpful for individuals who:

• Experience digestive sensitivity
  

• Are recovering from antibiotic exposure
  

• Have concerns about gut barrier function
  

• Prefer starting with natural supplements for digestive health that focus on prebiotic and structural support
  
  

Why a Prebiotic Focus Matters

Prebiotics are fibers that serve as fuel for beneficial bacteria. When fermented in the colon, they help produce short-chain fatty acids such as butyrate, which are associated with:

• Support of intestinal tight junction integrity
  

• Healthy inflammatory signaling
  

• Maintenance of a balanced microbiome environment
  

Some practitioners recommend establishing a supportive gut environment before introducing probiotic strains. Research suggests probiotic effectiveness can vary depending on the condition of the digestive tract.

For individuals with inflammatory or highly reactive digestive systems, introducing prebiotic-based digestive health supplements first may improve tolerance before adding probiotics.

Key Areas of Support

Dr. Tennant’s® Microbiome Support is designed to support:

• Intestinal barrier function
  

• Healthy microbial balance
  

• Antioxidant protection within the GI tract
  

• Regular bowel function
  

• Detoxification support through fiber
  

As with all supplements for digestive health, individual response may vary. It is recommended to consult a qualified healthcare professional before beginning any new digestive health supplements, especially if you have a diagnosed gastrointestinal or autoimmune condition.

Choosing the Best Supplements for Digestive Health

When evaluating digestive health supplements, consider:

1. Your primary concern, such as bloating, irregularity, immune support, or cravings
   

2. Whether you need prebiotic, probiotic, or barrier support
   

3. Ingredient transparency and research backing
   

4. Consultation with a healthcare professional
   

Supplements for good digestive health work best when combined with:

• Adequate dietary fiber
  

• Stress management
  

• Hydration
  

• Balanced nutrition

When to Speak With a Healthcare Professional

Seek medical advice if you experience:

• Persistent abdominal pain
  

• Blood in stool
  

• Unexplained weight loss
  

• Severe diarrhea or constipation
  

• Diagnosed with autoimmune or inflammatory bowel conditions
  

Digestive symptoms can overlap with many medical conditions. Proper diagnosis is essential before starting natural digestive health supplements.

Bottom Line

The gut microbiome plays an important role in digestion, immunity, and metabolic health. Factors such as antibiotics, stress, diet, and environmental exposures may influence microbial balance and intestinal barrier function.

Digestive health supplements may support gut integrity and microbial diversity when used appropriately. However, they should complement, not replace, medical care and healthy lifestyle habits.

FAQs