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The Surprising Reason You Might Get Sick More Often

By Karen Donaldson February 10, 2026 Health and Fitness

If you catch every bug going around, your gut might be trying to tell you something.

You might think of your digestive system as the system your body uses to process food. But did you know that about 70-80% of your immune system cells are located in and around your gut?

Your digestive tract is home to trillions of microorganisms, mostly bacteria, that help fight infection and reduce inflammation.

Together, they make up what’s known as your gut microbiome.

They work with the other immune cells in the digestive tract to:

  • Block harmful microbes and prevent them from attaching to the gut lining.
  • Neutralize toxins and support liver detox pathways.
  • Prevent infections by producing antibacterial compounds and supporting antibody production.
  • Train your immune system to know what is dangerous (viruses, toxins, pathogens) and how to respond.

Why Gut Health Declines with Age

Over time, our gut health often becomes more fragile. Common factors that weaken it include:

  • Repeated antibiotic use
  • Low-fiber diets
  • Chronic stress
  • Inflammation
  • Hormonal changes
  • Reduced stomach acid
  • Nutrient deficiencies

Our age also affects our immune system.

Doctors and researchers use the word immunosenescence to describe the gradual aging and weakening of the immune system as we get older.

You might notice more frequent colds and infections, longer recovery times, lingering fatigue, more inflammation and aches, and slower healing. This is a key reason why gut health becomes so important.

When your gut is healthy, it helps slow down the aging of your immune system. When gut health is poor, immune function declines faster.

Take Care of Your Gut Microbiome to Boost Your Immune System

One of the most powerful ways to support your immune system is by keeping your gut microbiome healthy.

In a perfect world, a balanced diet filled with fresh vegetables, whole grains, and fermented foods would provide the nutrients our gut bacteria need.

But the truth is, we don’t live in a perfect world.

It can be challenging to consistently eat all the right foods. And even when we do, the changes in our digestion and absorption that come with age can make it harder for our bodies to use those nutrients the way they once did.

As a result, nutritional gaps can develop – even when you’re doing your best to eat well.

What Your Gut Bacteria Need to Thrive

It’s estimated that over 95% of people don’t get enough fiber, and it’s taking a toll. Fiber is a primary fuel source for your gut bacteria, acting as a prebiotic that helps them grow and produce health-promoting compounds that nourish your colon, reduce inflammation, and support immune function.

Learn more about how to Kickstart Your Digestive Health with Dietary Fiber.

It can be challenging to get all the fiber, prebiotics and probiotics you need for a healthy gut, which is why I often recommend a nutritional supplement.

The Organic Fiber I use has 8 grams of fiber per serving, and I like that I get everything I need in one scoop instead of having to add in ten extra things! Organic Fiber includes:

🌿 Agave Inulin – A powerful prebiotic that feeds healthy gut bacteria and supports digestion.

🌾 Psyllium Husk – Gently sweeps waste from the digestive tract and promotes regularity.

🌱 Pea Fiber – Supports fullness, digestion, and healthy blood sugar balance.

🍈 Baobab Fruit – Rich in prebiotic fiber and antioxidants for gut and immune health.

🌰 Chia Seed – Delivers fiber, omega-3s, and nutrients to aid digestion and heart health.

🍎 Apple Cider Vinegar – Helps support digestion, gut balance, and metabolic health.

🌲 Ceylon Cinnamon – Known to support healthy blood sugar and inflammation balance.

🍋 Lemon Fruit – Provides gentle cleansing and natural digestive support.

🌶 Ginger Root – Soothes the stomach and promotes smoother digestion.

🌿 Turmeric Root – Helps support gut health and a healthy inflammatory response.

The supplements I recommend are the ones I use for myself and recommend to my family, friends, and clients. I finally found a company I trust and so I partnered with them to become an affiliate. Their nutrition supplements are made with high-quality, premium ingredients and are third-party tested for purity and potency. I also love that they are VERY affordable!

Click here to find out how to get Organic Fiber plus all the health and wellness products you need with low pricing that makes taking care of your health easy to do!

PS – Your health is important! Please consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

How much do you know about your gut immunity? Is your gut healthy? What do you do in your daily routine to stimulate/maintain gut health?

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june

I get seven hours of sleep every night. I start the morning off with a half hour on my bike while i say my prayers. Then i do pilates stretching for a half hour. I take a probiotic that has prebiotics in it. Then i follow up with a multivitamin.. I follow an anti-inflammatory diet{ all fruits and vegetables, chicken, fish, herbal tea and water}. All my food is organic. I am proud to say i haven’t been sick in tears.

Jane

I went to a dietician and my energy level is startlingly different. I eat much more vegetables, less red meat and more red fruits. I do not eat processed stuff or very little.

The Author

Karen Donaldson helps women stop their cravings and emotional eating so they can lose the weight and keep it off. She is a Registered Dietitian, EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) Certified Weight Loss Coach, Emotion Code Certified Practitioner and a Weight Loss Mindset Expert. Learn more at excelweightloss.com/stop-emotional-eating.

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