Microbiome Moment: The Surprising Link Between Your Gut and Immune System 💚

For those who have started school, the sniffles have already started making their rounds! If you're a parent, you know how quickly the cycle goes: one kid brings something home, it spreads to siblings, and before long, the whole family is feeling it. However, a significant portion of our immune system actually originates in our gut. 

Why the Gut = Immune Headquarters

About 70% of your immune system lives in your gut. That's not just a fun fact; it's the reason gut health is such a powerful piece of your body's defenses. Okay...but why?

• Your gut lining decides what gets through and what doesn't. It's like a TSA agent! 
• The trillions of microbes in your microbiome are constantly training your immune system to recognize "friend vs. foe." This education happens most actively in early childhood, as gut microbes help shape how immune cells respond and build long-term resilience (PMID: 33479320)
  • Parent side note: This is why things like playing in the dirt, being around pets, and eating a variety of real foods can actually be good for kids' immune systems. Those everyday exposures are giving their microbiome little lessons in how to stay strong.
• A balanced gut = strong protection. An imbalanced gut (called dysbiosis) = more frequent illness, more inflammation, and a harder time fighting off illnesses

So if it feels like your family catches every cold that floats through school, it may be more than just bad luck.

Why Do Some Families Get Sick More Often? 

Every family is different, but here are a few of the most common patterns I see that make kids (and parents) more likely to get sick again and again:

• Overuse of antibiotics. Life-saving when needed, and necessary at times for sure... but they wipe out everything- including the good bugs. Supports can be added in if you or your kiddo do need to be on them, don’t stress too much! 
• Processed foods + low plant variety. The microbiome thrives on colorful, diverse foods.
• Stress + poor sleep. A dysregulated nervous system makes it more difficult to fight off illness.
• Low vitamin D + mineral status. The basics like sun, minerals, and hydration really matter.

This is all about noticing where you can make small adjustments that make a big difference. 

Practical Ways to Support Gut + Immune Health

You don't need a supplement cabinet full of things to support your family's immunity. Some of the most effective supports are simple and consistent:

• Food first: think homemade stock/broth, vitamin-C-rich foods, and probiotic foods like sauerkraut or yogurt with live cultures.
• Routine rhythms: prioritizing sleep, outdoor play, and regular mealtimes.
• Nervous system calm: after-dinner walks and slowing down instead of "go-go-go."
• Hydration with minerals: a pinch of sea salt in water, lemon water, or kid-friendly electrolytes.
• Supplements when needed: Vitamin C, Needed Immune support blend (that my kids call their "yummy rainbow juice", HerbPharm Kids Immune Avenger...lots of options!

What if my kid still gets sick all of the time? 

Sometimes you've tried all the basics and you're still not seeing progress. That's when gut testing can give you clarity instead of guessing!

There are many different testing options based on your child's specific needs, but I often recommend the Tiny Health microbiome test. It's a simple at-home stool test designed specifically for infants and children that shows what's really going on in their gut. It looks at things like diversity, beneficial strains, and imbalances that might be making them more vulnerable to illness.

When I ran this test for my own son, it was eye-opening. We finally had answers about his gut health, and once we made a few gentle shifts based on his results, we started seeing real changes, not just in digestion, but in his mood, energy, and overall resilience.

Sickness does happen!

Getting sick sometimes is part of being human! However, you can make it less frequent, less severe, and less stressful by supporting the gut daily. Small, consistent shifts add up.

If you want a simple way to begin, my FREE 5-Day Gut Rescue Plan is the perfect place to start. Get it 👉Here!

And if you've been curious about your child's gut health, the Tiny Health test is a powerful tool to help you understand what's going on beneath the surface. Free discovery call here

Things I’m Loving This Week

Recipe:

Baked Apple Crisp Cups

These have been on repeat in my kitchen after we went to the apple orchard recently. They’re quick, warm, and just the right amount of sweet.

• Slice 2 apples and toss with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a drizzle of maple syrup.
• Divide into a small baking dish.
• Top with a simple mix of oats, walnuts, coconut oil, and a little bit of brown sugar.
• Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

The house smells like fall, and the fiber + healthy fats make it balanced and nutrient dense!

Product:

• Magnesium glycinate before bed. With so many changes happening in our family right now (new routines, spouse starting a new job, lots of transitions), I’ve been leaning on magnesium to help my nervous system relax and support deeper sleep. I always notice I digest better and feel calmer when I’m consistent with it!

Movement:

• Evening stretching + outdoor walks. I’ve started adding a few minutes of stretching after the kids go to bed. It’sseems like such a small thing, and initially didn't even feel productive or like a win for me...but it helps me release the day and sleep better! Combined with our family walks in the clear Colorado air, it feels like exactly what my body needs right now.

Here's to fewer sick days and a season of feeling strong and resilient.

xo,

MaryRose

The Microbiome Mom

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_{Disclaimer: The information shared in this blog is intended for inspirational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Nothing in this blog is intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease. Consult with your healthcare provider before making any dietary, lifestyle, or supplement changes, and do not forego or delay seeking medical attention based on the information shared in this blog. Please always consider your personal situation and do your own research.}