The Importance of the Human Microbiome
A great number of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other living organisms make up the human body. Collectively, these microorganisms are called the Human Microbiome. While most of these organisms are located in the Digestive System, they are also present on the Skin, Oral Cavity, and other locations within the body. Many of these microorganisms are not harmful but rather essential for maintaining good health.
What Is the Human Microbiome?
A complete collection of all microorganisms, including their genetic material that lives, exists upon and with human beings, is defined as the Human Microbiome. Each individual Human Microbiome is a product of both environmental and genetics and is different for every person. The largest and most complex collection of microorganisms is found within the Digestive System, specifically within the Intestinal Tract.
How Microorganisms Aid in Digestion
Many of the important roles of the Human Microbiome include aiding in the process of digestion. When taking in food, the human body relies on gut microorganisms to assist with the breaking down of foods containing fibrous materials that cannot be digested by humans alone. These gut microorganisms are also responsible for producing several important vitamins, including Vitamin K and some B Vitamins that support energy and clotting factors in the blood.
Microbiome & Immune System
The protective role the microbiota has in strengthening the human immune system is immense! The beneficial bacteria present in each person's microbiota protect their bodies from the attack of harmful microorganisms that would otherwise multiply quickly and ultimately lead to infection. Another way in which the microbiota support the immune system is through their training of the immune system to distinguish between "self" (good) and "non-self" (bad) things, thereby reducing the chances of developing allergy and autoimmunity.
Microbiome & Mental Health
One of the most exciting findings of scientists over the past several years has been the discovery of the gut-brain axis. This is a direct line of communication between the gut and the brain. Chemicals produced by gut bacteria impact the nervous system in a large way, and therefore influence people's mood & behavior. A microbiome that is out of balance with healthy bacteria has now been linked to depression & anxiety.
Factors That Affect the Microbiome
There are many things that change the balance of an individual's microbiome:
Food - Each day, our diet supports (or doesn't support) the bacteria that live in our intestines. The more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains consumed daily, the healthier the bacteria in our intestines will be.
Antibiotics - Antibiotic treatment will eliminate any and all bacteria that are sensitive to that particular antibiotic. Because of this, healthy bacteria may also be eliminated when a given individual receives an antibiotic.
Lifestyle - Stress, lack of sleep & not keeping hygienic can affect the balance of the microbiome.
Keeping Your Microbiome Healthy
A balanced diet and regular physical activity, as well as sufficient amounts of sleep, will support a healthy microbiome. In addition to maintaining good sleep habits, eating foods rich in fermented & probiotic are very important. Fermented foods such as yogurt are excellent sources of beneficial bacteria that support the health of the gut.