We often hear the phrase, “Health begins in the gut.”
And today, that idea is more than just a wellness trend—it’s supported by science.
Your gut plays a major role not only in digestion, but also in your immune system, skin condition, and even your mood.
In fact, many researchers now refer to the gut as our “second brain,” emphasizing its deep influence on overall well-being.
🦠 The Power of Lactic Acid Bacteria (Probiotics)
At the center of this gut-health discussion is lactic acid bacteria, also known as probiotics.
These friendly bacteria help balance your intestinal environment and support your body’s natural defenses.
You’ve probably heard of probiotics in the context of yogurt and dairy-based products.
But recently, more attention has been given to plant-based probiotics, which are stronger survivors—they can withstand stomach acid and reach the intestines alive, increasing their potential benefits.
🍚 Traditional Japanese Foods Are Full of Probiotics
Luckily for those of us raised on Japanese cuisine, many traditional foods are already rich in lactic acid bacteria.
Here are a few examples:
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Natto (fermented soybeans)
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Miso (fermented soybean paste)
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Soy sauce
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Nukazuke (rice-bran pickled vegetables)
These foods, passed down through generations, represent the wisdom of everyday eating.
Our ancestors may not have known the science, but they intuitively incorporated foods that supported gut health long before “probiotics” became a buzzword.
⚖️ The Gut Microbiome and… Human Society?
Here’s something fascinating:
Your gut isn’t just home to “good” bacteria.
There are three major groups of microbes:
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Good bacteria (probiotics) – They actively support your health.
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Bad bacteria – They can cause trouble when they become dominant.
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Opportunistic bacteria – Also called “neutral” or commensal bacteria, they don’t pick a side… until they do.
These “opportunistic” microbes are known in Japanese as 日和見菌 (hiyori-mi kin), which literally means “fair-weather bacteria.”
They’re the ones that side with whichever group is stronger at the time—good or bad.
Now think about that for a second.
Doesn’t that remind you of people?
In every society or group, we have:
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Those who always do the right thing (the “good guys”)
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Those who spread negativity or cause harm (the “bad guys”)
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And a large group who just… go with the flow.
They’re not committed either way. They stay quiet, they wait to see who’s winning, and then they follow.
In Japanese slang, there’s even a common phrase now:
「日和ってんじゃねーよ」 (“Don’t be wishy-washy!”)
It’s used to call out people who won’t take a stand, who simply ride the wave instead of choosing a path.
In the gut, just like in life, balance matters most.
Too many bad influences, and the whole system gets thrown off.
But with enough support for the “good guys,” even the neutral ones may follow suit—and harmony is restored.
🧘♀️ A Thoughtful Ending: Listen to Your Gut
If you’ve been feeling tired, moody, or just “off,” maybe your gut is trying to send you a signal.
You don’t need to make huge changes—just small, intentional shifts in your daily meals can make a big difference.
Try adding fermented foods, even a little bit, and give your body the tools it needs to restore its balance from the inside.
And maybe, just maybe—your inner “society” will become a little kinder, more stable, and more energized.
✨ The gut reflects how we live, eat, and even think.
And sometimes, taking care of your bacteria is the first step to taking care of yourself.
Butyr Aid