Enterococcus Faecalis

🦠 What Is Enterococcus Faecalis?

Enterococcus faecalis is a naturally occurring bacterium found in the digestive system. It contributes to overall microbial balance, supports digestion, and is included in certain probiotic blends. Like many microbes, its presence may shift depending on diet, lifestyle, environment, and overall gut balance.

🤔 Why Might My Levels of Enterococcus Faecalis Be Low?

Lower levels of E. faecalis may occur when the internal environment does not favor its growth. Influencing factors may include:

• Antibiotic exposure – May reduce both beneficial and opportunistic microbes.

• Low-fiber or low-fermented food intake – May limit the nourishment needed for microbial diversity.

• Chronic stress – Stress may influence the digestive environment and microbial patterns.

• Gut imbalances – When other microbes dominate, E. faecalis may have less room to thrive.

• Reduced exposure to natural microbes – Over-sanitized environments or limited soil/food diversity may influence microbial patterns.

🛠️ What Could I Do About It?

🦠 Consider a probiotic supplement – Some formulas include Enterococcus faecalis alongside other supportive strains.
🥛 Add fermented foods – Yogurt, kefir, miso, sauerkraut, and kimchi support balanced microbial activity.
🥗 Increase fiber intake – Fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains help feed beneficial microbes.
🧘 Incorporate stress-supportive habits – Mindfulness, breathing exercises, and consistent routines may help support digestive balance.
🚫 Be mindful of unnecessary antibiotics – Their use may influence microbial diversity.

💊 Which Supplements May Support Low E. Faecalis Levels?

• Lactobacillus + Bifidobacterium probiotics – Often supportive for overall microbial balance.

• Prebiotics – Help nourish beneficial microbes already present.

• Oregano oil or berberine – Sometimes used in wellness routines to help maintain microbial balance.

• L-glutamine – Supports overall gut lining wellness.

• Vitamin D & Zinc – Support general immune and wellness pathways.

🌟 Why Might Enterococcus Faecalis Be Low While Other Probiotics Are Present?

• Antibiotics influence some strains more strongly than others.

• Competing strains may dominate the internal environment.

• Dietary habits may favor other microbes over E. faecalis.

• Different resilience levels – Some probiotics persist more easily than others.

• Individual gut patterns – Each person's microbial landscape is unique and may not support all strains equally.

🍽️ Foods to Consider Limiting While Supporting Enterococcus Faecalis Levels

• High-sugar foods

• Highly processed foods

• Excess alcohol

• Chlorinated water (frequent consumption)

• Fried or greasy foods

These may encourage imbalances or reduce microbial diversity.

🍽️ Foods That May Support Enterococcus Faecalis Levels

• Fermented foods – Yogurt, kefir, miso, sauerkraut, kimchi

• Prebiotic-rich foods – Garlic, onions, bananas, leeks, asparagus

• Fiber-dense foods – Whole grains, vegetables, fruits, legumes

• Bone broth – Supports general digestive comfort and gut lining

• Probiotic-containing foods – Fermented vegetables, cultured dairy, and miso