In recent years, researchers have gained a greater understanding of the importance of gut microbiota to our health. Recent research has revealed how these microorganisms influence our well-being.
The human body contains trillions of bacteria and viruses. Fungi, fungi, and other microorganisms are also found in the human body. These organisms collectively are known as the human Microbiome. About 3% of the body’s weight is made up of microbes, which can be found on every surface from the skin to the digestive tract. These microbes form intricate networks that are vital to maintaining our body’s balance.
Researchers have found that changes to the composition of microbial communities may affect an individual’s health in both a positive and negative way. Understanding gut microbiota about the human microbiome can help solve many mysteries about why some people are healthy and others have chronic diseases or illnesses.
Further exploration can also lead to new treatments for existing conditions. This article explores the implications of gut microbiota, the human microbiome, and their physical, mental, and emotional health.
What is the Microbiome?
The microbiome is made up of trillions of microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi.
Although the thought of viruses and parasites living in our guts may seem unsettling, they are symbiotic bacteria that are vital for the health of the microbiome and the human body. *
Mary Bove, ND, a long-time member of the Scientific Advisory Board of Gaia Herbs, said, “What’s interesting about the microbiome is that it is similar to fingerprints, it is unique for each individual.”
The microbiome also affects our immunity, overall health, and even our emotions.
Susan Hirsch, our Formulation Manager says that the microbiome represents one of the world’s most complex and diverse ecosystems.
We are constantly learning new things about it. Hirsch: “It’s amazing to learn that there are billions of organisms, and they all make up 100 times more DNA than a human cell.”
It’s not surprising that the microbiome has been referred to as an organ forgotten when you consider how much metabolic and DNA activity takes place.
Why is it so important to have a healthy digestive system?
The microbiome is made up of trillions and trillions of bacteria in your gut. These bacteria are important for a healthy digestive system, immune system, mental health, and weight. The primary function of the gut is to break down food and absorb nutrients such as fiber, complex carbohydrates, and other non-digestible components our body requires for proper functioning. A healthy microbiome can also help regulate metabolism and prevent the accumulation of fat in the body.
A healthy gut is also crucial to a healthy immune response. The gut is home to 70% of your immune system, and it’s the first line of defense against anything that enters the bloodstream. The gut microbiome can also affect brain function, mood, and behavior.
Types of microbes found in the gut
While the number of microorganisms in your gut can vary, it is usually between 400 and 1000 species that belong to more than 20 phyla. Some bacteria can negatively affect health but many others are good for digestion, overall well-being, and immune function. They provide essential nutrients such as vitamin B12 and K2 and help support the immune system. These microbes also help to break down indigestible food components like fiber into short-chain fatty acids which can be absorbed and used by the body for energy production. They also produce compounds like lactic acid and bacteriocins, which act as natural anti-pathogens.
The composition of the microbiome can be affected by environmental factors such as diet, medication, hygiene, stress, and hygiene habits. To gain more insight into diseases such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or inflammatory bowel disorder (IBD), it is important to better understand the role of microbes in the intestine. This knowledge allows us to explore ways of maintaining healthy populations through diet changes and targeted probiotic supplements when necessary.
Personalization has a lot of potential
Srecko Prodanovic will present on HEM Pharma, Amway’s Supervisor of Biology and Skin Science, at the Joint Probiotics Symposium. It’s known that intestinal environments can differ from person to person and impact probiotic efficacy. A deeper understanding of the bacteria in the gut and their function is the next step to personalized support.
