Microbiome

The human microbiome consists of approximately 38 trillion bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microorganisms that colonize the skin, mouth, lungs, and most importantly the gastrointestinal tract. The gut microbiome alone contains over 1,000 species of bacteria and encodes 150 times more genes than the human genome, functioning almost as a separate organ.

Research has linked gut microbiome composition to a remarkable range of health outcomes including digestive health, immune function, mental health, weight management, and even the effectiveness of certain medications. An imbalanced microbiome, called dysbiosis, has been associated with conditions ranging from irritable bowel syndrome and allergies to depression, obesity, and autoimmune diseases.

Supporting a healthy microbiome involves consuming a diverse, fiber-rich diet with plenty of vegetables, fruits, legumes, and fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut. Limiting processed foods, unnecessary antibiotics, and artificial sweeteners helps preserve microbial diversity. Prebiotic foods such as garlic, onions, bananas, and asparagus feed beneficial bacteria, while probiotic supplements may help restore balance after illness or antibiotic treatment.