Managing gut health through nutrition

Abstract

1. To study gut health, a multi-pronged approach is necessary. It should be considered from the point of view of immunology, microbiology and nutrient supply. 2. The impact on gut health often comes from microbial imbalance in the gut, which will be exacerbated if antibiotics are withdrawn from feed. 3. Any gut damage caused by pathogens will lead to poor gut health, which will, in turn, affect nutrient utilisation efficiency. Subclinical forms of infection with no obvious signs of lesions are often financially more devastating than acute, short-term infections. Necrotic enteritis in poultry is one such example. 4. Dietary factors that modulate the immune system and gut microflora should be considered when formulating diets and managing feeding practices.