Supporting a Healthy Microbiome for Optimal Health
The human microbiome is an incredibly complex and important part of our health, as it is composed of trillions of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and their genomes that coexist within us. It is found throughout our bodies, but is most concentrated in the gut, where it plays a major role in extracting nutrients from our diet and interacting with our body and the environment. Research has shown that the gut microbiome can be a predictor of diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, autoimmune diseases, infectious diseases, and other conditions.
Our microbiome is influenced by the first years of life, and can be impacted by various environmental factors such as what we put into our bodies each day, including medications and antibiotics.[0] The composition of a healthy gut microbiome will vary from person to person, and is impacted by factors such as diet, environment, medications, genetics, and even our pets.
The best way to support a healthy microbiome is to eat a well-balanced diet of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, and to focus on plant-based foods and fermented foods.[1] Probiotics and prebiotics have also been associated with reducing depression, promoting heart health, boosting the immune system, and providing better skin.[2] However, it is important to be wary of claims that a product will promote gut health, as the best recipe for a healthy gut is to eat plenty of foods that are rich in fiber.[3]
0. “How Can Nourishing Your Gut Improve Your Mental and Physical Health | HealthNews” Healthnews.com, 3 Mar. 2023, https://healthnews.com/health-conditions/digestive-disorders/how-can-nourishing-your-gut-improve-your-mental-and-physical-health
1. “Gut Health: What does ‘healing' your gut mean?” Longevity.Technology, 1 Mar. 2023, https://longevity.technology/lifestyle/gut-health-what-does-healing-your-gut-mean
2. “12 Best Probiotic Foods for Gut Health” CNET, 4 Mar. 2023, https://www.cnet.com/health/nutrition/12-best-probiotic-foods-for-gut-health/
3. “The digestive system is important and can affect your overall health” Oklahoman.com, 28 Feb. 2023, https://www.oklahoman.com/story/lifestyle/health-fitness/2023/02/28/the-digestive-system-is-important-and-can-affect-your-overall-health/69936508007/
