Our Gut Health is affected by our Gut Microbiome, which may be affected by our food intake, exercise, exposure to stress and many others. Find out how our Gut Microbiome affects our Gut Health and how you can improve it below.
What is the Gut Microbiome?
Gut Microbiome is made up of billions of bacteria and other microorganisms that co-exist with other human cells in the lower intestine. While some bacteria are associated with a disease, others are extremely important for your immune system, heart, weight and many other aspects of health. These microorganisms comprise of mostly bacteria that aid in the human digestive system by playing a key role in digesting the food we eat and to help with the absorption and synthesising of nutrients too. Gut bugs also involved in other body processes such as metabolism, body weight, immune regulation, brain functions and mood.
Gut Microbiome began to develop in the early stages of life. As we grow, many factors can shape bacteria such as genetics, stressful events, age and illness. However, other factors can be controlled such as lifestyle behaviours, in a particular diet. The balance of our gut can be disrupted by the above-mentioned reasons, and this can promote inflammation which is a potent risk factor for physical and mental disorders.
The role of the Gut microbiome
In general, a healthy gut consists of a barrier that is effective at keeping the content of the gut, including microbiota, undigested food particles and toxins, from escaping into the bloodstream. Other function includes fighting off infection, performing all of its usual digestive and regulatory functions to keep the human body running at its best.
As microbiome grows, it affects the human body such as digesting fiber that is important for gut health that aids in the prevention of weight gain, diabetes, heart disease, and the risk of cancer. It also helps to control the immune system by communicating with immune cells, and control how the human body responds to infection. Finally, it also affects the central nervous systems that aid in controlling brain function.
The gut microbiome affects the body from birth and throughout life by controlling the digestion of food, immune system, central nervous system and other bodily processes. There is no one ideal ‘Healthy Gut’. Everyone’s gut is different, and it is important to note that these bacteria can function at their best, rather than having specific types and numbers of bacteria.