What you need to know about the gut microbiome
In 2008, a massive project was initiated, termed ‘The Human Microbiome Project’. It unveiled the extensive community of ‘bugs’ that exist ON and IN us. It showed that the body contains almost 10 times as many bacteria as human cells!
Where exactly do I find these bacteria?
In short, pretty much EVERYWHERE. Think the gut, skin, lungs, mouth, nose, vagina…
The bacteria in the gut have received all the limelight lately. And, rightly so! Humans probably wouldn’t be able to survive without bacteria in the gut, as we don’t have all the enzymes we need to digest our own diet! Gut microbes break down proteins, fats and carbohydrates into nutrients that we can absorb. Moreover, the microbes produce beneficial compounds, like vitamins and anti-inflammatories that our own bodies cannot produce alone.
Why is this important?
Basically, it’s redefined what it means to be human.
You and your bacteria are constantly communicating. Essentially, we can consider your collection of bacteria as an entirely new organ – a new extension of yourself!
We’ve discovered that your microbiome’s effects on health are widespread – influencing immunity, skin health, mood, sleep, weight management, nutrient status… (and the list goes on).
If it’s so important, why have I not heard about it?
The concept is relatively new. It really started to be spoken about in 2012, at the end of the Human Microbiome Project.
The project provided us with an idea of what a ‘healthy’ microbiome looks like. Since then, researchers have been exploring how changes in a ‘normal’ microbiome are associated with, or even cause, illnesses.
In many ways, uncharted territory is still being explored. However, it seems as though EVERY DAY new roles of these bacteria are being exposed.
Ultimately, these new findings open up endless insight and opportunities for optimizing your wellbeing. The future of the microbiome research looks very bright.
So, WAIT, what can I do for my bacteria?
Well, just as you would care for any other part of your body, so you need to take care of your good bacteria.
MICROBIOME health is a lifestyle. First and foremost, get your diet right! The makeup of your bacterial community is matchless. You require personalized dietary (and if necessary, supplementation) advice – treat your body as uniquely as it has been made! Next, work on stress levels, sleep and movement. And DO NOT forget about reducing environmental toxin exposure – I’m talking about cosmetics, food supply and storage, household cleaning agents etc. – but that’s a topic for another day.
