We are not just bodies, but living ecosystems with thriving communities of bacteria inside us. Previously, researchers didn’t pay much attention to this fact, but today we know the gut microbiome is much more important than previously thought.
But why, exactly?
That’s what you’re about to find out. We take a deep dive into the human gut ecosystem to see why it matters so much for overall health. Here’s everything you need to know:
It Improves Skin Health
The first reason the gut microbiome matters is that it can positively affect skin health. Studies suggest it can help individuals with specific skin conditions, like eczema, preventing them from flaring up as much.
The channels through which the gut microbiome works are complex. However, researchers believe it may be through how their waste products modify the immune system. Certain byproducts may have positive, beneficial effects, such as reducing inflammation or changing how the body responds to skin cells.
It Helps With Weight Management
Another reason the gut microbiome may help is through the role it plays in weight management. The trillions of tiny bacteria in the stomach churn out all sorts of beneficial chemicals, including those that adjust how the body’s metabolism works.
For example, healthy bacteria that feed on vegetable matter produce short-chain fatty acids. Researchers believe these could improve insulin sensitivity and help to keep weight in the healthy range.
Certain bacteria may also produce compounds that speed up metabolism. Reduced inflammation may improve the body’s ability to burn the fat inside fat cells, for example.
That’s why many people believe prebiotic soda has huge benefits. Adding the raw materials bacteria need to a beverage people want to consume increases the likelihood of the stomach producing healthier, weight-controlling compounds.
It Improves Mental Health
Some people also use the microbiome to improve mental health. Research suggests it can assist with various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression and other disorders.
Why this is the case isn’t entirely clear. However, it may relate to brain inflammation and the gut-brain axis.
For example, some people can feel anxious if inflammatory compounds in the bloodstream cross the blood-brain barrier. This activity changes the way brain cells work, leading to typical mental health symptoms.
Other people can experience gut problems which then transmit to the brain. Gut imbalances may put serotonin concentrations out of balance, changing a person’s mood.
It Helps With Digestion
Another obvious reason the gut microbiome matters for overall health is its effect on digestion. Having the right balance of bacteria in the stomach improves food breakdown and stool formation, reducing bloating, distension, heartburn, constipation and flatulence.
Positive bacteria in the gut also improve the digestion and absorption of specific nutrients, like zinc and vitamin B1. It can also improve your body’s access to vitamin K.
It Boosts Immune Function
Lastly, a healthy gut microbiome also boosts immune function. Having the right bacteria in your gut makes it more straightforward for your body to tell the difference between healthy and harmful cells, making immune-related conditions less likely.