Microbiome
Definition
The microbiome refers to the collection of all the microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and their genes, that live on and within the human body, particularly in the gut. These microorganisms play a crucial role in maintaining our health by helping digest food, regulating the immune system, producing vitamins, and protecting against harmful pathogens.
Scientific / Technical Definition
The human microbiome comprises the full genomic complement of all the microbial symbionts that reside within and upon the human body. It includes bacteria, archaea, viruses, and fungi, collectively weighing about 2-6 pounds in an average adult. The gut microbiome is the most studied and consists of tens of trillions of microorganisms. These communities are dynamic, influenced by factors such as diet, geography, genetics, and medication, including antibiotics, and have significant impacts on host metabolism, nutrition, pathogen resistance, and immune system modulation.
Benefits
- Aids in digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Produces essential vitamins such as B vitamins and vitamin K.
- Supports the immune system by preventing the colonization of harmful pathogens.
- Regulates inflammation and contributes to the intact barrier of the gut lining.
- Influences mental health through the gut-brain axis.
Examples
- Fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut which promote a healthy gut microbiome.
- High-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains which are prebiotics, feeding beneficial bacteria.
- Probiotic supplements that contain live beneficial bacteria intended to replenish and diversify the gut microbiome.
Additional Information
- Importance: The microbiome is important for overall health, influencing nutritional status, pathogen protection, immune function, and even mood and behavior through the gut-brain connection. Imbalances in the microbiome, known as dysbiosis, have been linked to numerous conditions, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, and depression.