Just had a chance to do some more reading. We need IgA cells to build immunity and the rebuild the wall of the intestines. Some of this you all will probably already know since we're working on restoring the gut lining, but here's some basics and a clear explination of IgA function:
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"When the System Works
The intestinal tract’s ability to prevent the absorption of whole protein is dependant on the health and integrity of the mucosal barrier. It is the proverbial guardian of the body at the gastrointestinal gate. The mucosal barrier (lining of the gut) is comprised of both structural components and immune system components. The structural components physically prevent the absorption of large proteins. The immune system component is responsible for recognizing potentially harmful contents of the gastrointestinal tract. The health and integrity of the gastrointestinal tract is dependant on the normal structure and function of the enterocytes, effective protein digestion, and the presence of the immune cells (called IgA cells) in the gastrointestinal tract.
The Gut and Immune System Together
Prevent Food Allergies
IgA cells are a type of immune cell secreted in the intestine. Some of the IgA will float freely in the contents of the intestine while other IgA attaches to the wall of the intestine to prevent whole protein from coming in contact with the enterocytes. Just like volleyball players they bounce whole proteins back into the contents of the intestine for more digestion. The more effective protein digestion in the stomach and intestine is, the smaller the proteins are when they come in contact with the IgA. Small proteins and single amino acids do not get bound to the IgA and are allowed to pass by the IgA and be absorbed into the body as nutrients."
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I was pretty sure that's what I had read before, but now I understand the role of IgA a little clearer after reading that. As my ND pointed out, we need to build up the IgA in the boys (hence the Vital Immune) It would seem if S Boulardii serves a similar purpose then it definitely could be benificial as well. Thank you again for the suggestion, Karen
