Summary

An overview of how the gut microbiome, the community of microbes living mainly in the large intestine, supports immune health. Explains how beneficial microbes help block harmful germs and turn certain fibers into short-chain fatty acids that influence immunity. Offers practical ways to support gut health, focusing on eating more prebiotic fibers from fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains and choosing probiotic foods like yogurt with live cultures. Recommends limiting added sugars, highly processed foods, and high-fat meats, plus staying active and managing stress, and cautions that probiotic supplements are not recommended for everyone without medical advice.