The Endocannabinoid System and Digestive Health

Your digestive microbiome is comprised of about a thousand different species of bacteria in your small and large intestines that play an essential role in supporting the immune system. In fact, about 70% of your total immune activity occurs in your gut.

These probiotic bacteria are responsible for dietary fiber absorption, key nutrient synthesis, metabolic efficiency, and healthy gut barrier maintenance that reduces the risk of digestive system issues. Because so much immune activity occurs in the gut, a deficient amount of beneficial bacteria (microbiome) often leaves the body vulnerable to various stresses. Factors like diet, prescription antibiotics, and the stress of daily life can all negatively affect beneficial bacteria, leading to these inflammatory intestinal conditions.

That’s why probiotic supplements and probiotic-rich foods have become increasingly popular among those taking an active approach to restoring a healthy gut microbiome. We now understand that healthy microbiomes occupying our gut is vital for proper physiological functioning and overall well-being. We have more microbes in our body, compared to cells. This speaks to their importance in maintaining health and balance (homeostasis) in the body.

Microbiome health and the endocannabinoid system

New scientific research has indicated that the endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays an essential role in regulating, balancing, and improving the gut microbiome by enhancing how it communicates with the rest of the body. We now understand that these bacteria activate receptors that are also targeted by the endocannabinoid system, and play a pivotal role in the tri-directional communication between the immune, nervous, and gastrointestinal system.

The intimate interplay between probiotics, phytocannabinoids and terpenes (organic plant compounds) work together to help fortify and maintain balance of this vital, but sometimes fragile, internal environment in our bodies.

In short: There are countless benefits of a healthy gut microbiome, and the more microbes in your intestinal tract, the better your body functions.