In this episode, we explore the critical role of Secretory IgA (sIgA) in maintaining intestinal health. We discuss how sIgA acts as a frontline immune defense, preventing pathogens from adhering to the gut epithelium and aiding in controlling microbial populations. Additionally, we dive into the implications of low and high sIgA levels - as indicated in a stool test, how sIgA levels relate to dysbiosis and Candida overgrowth, addressing underlying root causes, and tools for supporting healthy sIgA levels. Topics: 1. Introduction to Secretory IgA and its Functions - Overview of sIgA's role in mucosal immunity - Importance of sIgA in maintaining the gut's lining integrity - How sIgA regulates pathogenic microbes in the gut 2. Structure of the Gut Lining and Mucosal Layers - The intestinal lumen and the protective mucus layer - Layers of the intestinal wall: mucosa, submucosa, muscularis, and serosa - The epithelium within the mucosa: epithelial cells including goblet cells 3. The Mucus Layer and Its Protective Function - Composition of the mucus layer: mucins and other components - How the mucus acts as both a physical and biochemical barrier - Differences between the mucus layer in the small and large intestines 4. Secretory IgA: Location and Role in the Gut - Where sIgA is found in the mucus layer - Differences in sIgA concentration in the small vs. large intestine - Interaction between sIgA and mucins to trap pathogens 5. Production and Secretion of Secretory IgA - Plasma cells in the lamina propria and their role in sIgA production - Transport of sIgA across the gut epithelium via the polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR) - Secretory component (SC) and its role in protecting sIgA from degradation 6. Immune Functions of sIgA in the Gut - Binding and neutralizing pathogens - The process of immune exclusion - The role of sIgA in preventing pathogen adherence to epithelial cells 7. Low and High sIgA Levels and Gut Conditions - What low and high sIgA levels can indicate in a stool test - Gut conditions associated with abnormal sIgA levels (e.g., dysbiosis, Candida overgrowth, infections) - The impact of chronic stress and prolonged infections on sIgA levels 8. Root Causes for Low sIgA Levels - Addressing root causes and underlying infections - Lifestyle factors that support healthy sIgA levels - Nutrients such as Vitamin A and Zinc for supporting sIgA production 9. Probiotics & More to Support sIgA - Probiotics, prebiotics, and phages that enhance sIgA production - Individual gut health needs Thank you to our episode sponsors: 1. Check out Daily Nouri and use code CHLOE20 for 20% off your order. 2. Check out the TruAge Biological Age Test from TruMe Labs. Thanks for tuning in! Get Chloe's Book Today! "75 Gut-Healing Strategies & Biohacks" Follow Chloe on Instagram @synthesisofwellness Follow Chloe on TikTok @chloe_c_porter Visit synthesisofwellness.com to purchase products, subscribe to our mailing list, and more! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/chloe-porter6/support