We all understand that when there is cooperation or concordance of the cells and systems in our bodies, then we are in good health. When there is discordance among these systems, then our health can suffer. We cannot talk about broken immunity or obesity (both signs of discordance) unless we talk about health of the gut barrier or the gut microbiome. We know that somewhere between 70 and 80% of the immune system is actually harbored in the gut lining. How does this immune system get established and develop? This happens very early in life in the birth process. Babies that are born by vaginal birth get microbes from their mothers that help to establish the diversity of their gut microbiome. Additionally, babies that are breast-fed are able to nourish their developing immune systems. This is especially important in the first 24-48 hours after birth and can set the stage for lifelong strong immunity.