High amounts of bacteria in the gut seems to be related to the level of stress a person is undergoing which thereby affects his/her immune status. The report shows that high stress imparts a high bacteria count in the gut which is linked to poor immune health. Therefore, it is very important to maintain a proper balance of bacteria in the gut in order to maintain good health. A good source of probiotics ingested on a daily basis should aid to balance gut bacteria and in effect counteract the damage leveled by stress on the immune system.

See article; http://consumer.healthday.com/Article.asp?AID=651146