The Microbiome
What is the microbiome?
The microbiome is a very complex, yet interesting, system to understand. It refers to the microbes (also called microorganisms) that are within and on our bodies, and contains a collective of bacteria, fungi, viruses, protozoa and archaea. These microbes help play a significant role with our immune system. These microbes can be found on our skin, in our gastrointestinal tract (also called the gut), in our mouths, and if you are a female, in your vagina, among other places.
How does it help?
Our immune system consists of many internal and external processes that work together to keep us healthy and/or to fight off an illness, or infection. Some components of our immune system includes our lymphatic system, white blood cells, antibodies, bone marrow, and of course the microbiome. There are pathogenic microbes which can cause us to become ill, and there are also beneficial microbes which protects us from those that are pathogenic. This protection from pathogenic microbes is considered an immune system function. In addition to fighting off pathogenic microbes, our microbiome helps us with digestion, and because there is a strong connection between our gut and brain function, it can also have an effect on our mental health in various ways; this is known as the gut-brain axis.
The Final Takeaway
Essentially, our microbiome helps to maintain all aspects of our overall health. Therefore, it is important to maintain a strong and functional microbiome which can be achieved through various avenues, including the foods that we eat, our environment, and our mental health. Our good bacteria feeds on fiber, which means that we must consume adequate amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables in order to encourage a diverse and abundant microbiome. We should also be mindful of excessive and unnecessary use of antibiotics, as this kills off good bacteria. And lastly, we should maintain quality mental health as much as possible.
Be sure to check out books that I have recommended as well as this microbiome resource page.