There are an estimated 100 to 300 trillion bacterial cells associated with the human body. Most are not harmful, and in fact contribute positively to normal human growth and development. It is believed that good gut bacteria make up about 70 to 80 percent of the body’s total immune system. However, some can have a negative influence and cause various diseases. It is therefore important that the balance of microbes be maintained to favor the beneficial bacteria over the potentially harmful ones. The ratio of beneficial to potentially harmful bacteria in the gut should be 80/20. When there is a bacterial imbalance, it is called dysbiosis. This imbalance can lead to a compromised immune system and digestive irregularities.