Importance of Gut Microbiome
The Gut Microbiome
Our gut microbiome or microflora refers to the ecosystem made up of microbes within the human gut/intestine. While majority of the symbiotic microorganism in our bodies is bacteria, it is important to note that virus, archaea, and fungi also exist. Our gut microflora consists of more than 500 bacterial species and a good balance/species diversity between beneficial bacteria and harmful bacteria is important to maintain a healthy body.
Healthy Gut Microbiome
A gut microbiome/microflora is considered healthy when it consists of 85% beneficial bacteria. Any alteration or a lower gut biodiversity in our intestinal microflora has repercussions on our health and wellbeing and can be the reason for fatigue, abdominal pain, cramps, flatulence, bloating, and changes in bowel habits
Importance of Gut Microbiome Diversity
There have been studies that show a correlation between certain mixtures of microbes and certain disease states, and that some diseases may be the result of a disturbance in the gut microbiome. For example, some people experience discomfort after taking broad-spectrum antibiotics due to a disturbance of the normal microbial community in the gut that leads to gastrointestinal inflammation and diarrhea.
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