As the medical community learns more and more about how gut health impacts overall well-being, interest in the human microbiome has exploded. Here, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about the microbiome, how it affects your health, and what you can do to protect it.
What is the Human Microbiome?
The human microbiome is a collection of around 100 trillion microbial cells that live on and in the body, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. While some of these microbial species are found in the mouth, nasal passages, and even on your skin, a large portion of them live in your gut. The human large intestine alone contains an estimated 100 billion to one trillion cells per milliliter.
Your microbiome contributes to numerous essential bodily processes, including:
- Digestion and energy: The microbiome helps draw nutrients and energy out of the food you eat, allowing your body to use them effectively. It also helps your body produce certain vitamins, including vitamin K and B vitamins.
- Immunity: The microbiome helps your body respond to foreign intruders and regulate the immune response, ensuring it’s effective without harming your body with excessive inflammation.
- Skin health: The microbiome helps preserve a healthy skin barrier and stimulate wound healing.
The Microbiome and Disease Risk
The human microbiome is also thought to play a role in the risk of certain diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and even certain cancers. This likely comes down to its role in regulating the immune system and inflammation.
Protecting Your Microbiome
You can protect and improve your microbiome with healthy lifestyle habits, including:
- Eating a varied, fiber-rich diet with minimal processed foods and plenty of natural probiotics
- Lowering your stress levels
- Limiting alcohol intake
- Only taking antibiotics when absolutely necessary
- Addressing gastrointestinal symptoms and reducing your toxic load with treatments like colon hydrotherapy
Interested in the benefits of colon hydrotherapy for your microbiome? Schedule an appointment with us today!