Microbiome Health

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The human body is a complex ecosystem, with both human cells and microbial cells coexisting in a symbiotic

relationship. The total number of human cells is approximately 37.2 trillion which includes small red blood cells (about 84%), muscle cells, nerve cells and all others. Microbes in the body including bacteria, fungi, viruses and other microorganisms total about 39 trillion. The largest population lives in the gut microbiome. This means the ratio of humans to microbial cells is close to 1:1, however the microbial genome vastly outnumbers the human genome in terms of genetic material. The microbial genome vastly outnumbering the human genome has profound effects on our health, anti-aging and longevity. The collective microbial

genome, often referred to as the “second genome” significantly influences vital biological processes in ways we are only beginning to understand! The human genome contains about 20,000-25,000 genes, but the microbial genome (our microbiome) adds 2-20 million additional genes. These microbial genes perform functions our human genome cannot. Beneficial bacteria breakdown dietary fiber into bioactive compounds we can use for energy and immune support. They generate short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate, which reduce inflammation and support our intestinal wall integrity. This protects us from auto-immune and inflammatory diseases like leaky gut. Chronic inflammation accelerates aging in multiple ways.

 

Many people have intestinal dysfunction which leads to chronic illness and disease.  For a myriad of reasons, including overuse of antibiotics and poor diet, we have lost the very beneficial microbes that perform life giving benefits.  If you would like to reestablish a healthy microbiome, I am here to help guide you in achieving your goals, and integrate the use of specific and targeted probiotics. We are only as young as our microbiome!