Why is the microbiome so crucial to our health? The tiny organisms that live in our bodies affect far more than just digestion. They play an essential role in regulating our immune system, hormonal balance and even our emotional state. New scientific research increasingly underlines how important a balanced microbiome is to our overall well-being.
The intestinal microbiome
In recent years, the concept of the microbiome has gained considerable importance. This concept encompasses the totality of microorganisms that live in and on our bodies, especially in the digestive tract, but also in the mouth, on the skin or in the eyes. These tiny organisms are crucial for nutrient processing and the regulation of our immune system. The human microbiome consists of an impressive number of over 100 trillion bacteria, viruses and fungi that together influence the balance of our body.
The importance of intestinal flora
The intestinal flora refers to the community of microorganisms that live in our digestive system. The majority of these microbes are found in the intestines, but they are also present in other areas such as the mouth, nose, lungs, vagina and on the skin. Most of these microorganisms are not only harmless to humans, but even useful. For example, they protect against the penetration of harmful germs by densely populating the intestines and skin. Certain types of bacteria are also able to digest fiber that our body would otherwise not be able to use, producing short-chain fatty acids that serve as an additional source of energy and influence metabolism. These microorganisms also influence how genes are read and how our brain signals satiety.
The microbes in the gut are also involved in the production of neurotransmitters and communicate with the brain via the blood and nervous system. They can even influence our emotional and social behavior. In addition, they support the immune system in its development and help maintain the balance between inflammation and tolerance to harmless microbes and the body's own tissues by mitigating excessive immune reactions.
Healthy intestinal flora and its functions
A healthy intestinal flora is essential for efficient digestion and nutrient absorption. The intestinal bacteria perform a variety of tasks: They support digestion, produce vitamins, hormones and messenger substances, strengthen the intestinal protective layer, prevent the penetration of harmful germs and train our immune system. The immune system, most of which is located in the intestine, is trained and kept in balance by the intestinal flora.
The Development of the Microbiome
The foundation for the microbiome is laid at birth. During a natural birth, the newborn receives its first microbiota through contact with the mother's bacteria. During a cesarean section, the first colonization of the microbiome occurs through contact with family members and the environment. Breast milk also supplies the child with important lactic acid bacteria that strengthen the immune system.
With the introduction of solid food, the microbiome expands and develops into a relatively stable state over the years. However, in later life, the diversity of the microbiome decreases again, which affects the interaction between the microbiome and the body. Recent studies show that the mother's lifestyle during pregnancy, such as taking antibiotics, can also influence the child's microbiome.
connection between microbiome and health
The gut microbiome consists of a variety of microorganisms that play a key role in our health by supporting digestion and regulating the immune system. A healthy microbiome can reduce the risk of various diseases such as diabetes, obesity and cancer. It has been scientifically proven that a disturbed gut flora can lead to diseases such as irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, type 2 diabetes and obesity.
Autoimmune diseases and the microbiome
Autoimmune diseases are not only attributed to genetic factors, but also to environmental factors, with the gut flora being considered an important factor. Alterations in the gut flora have been found in various autoimmune diseases, suggesting their role in the development of these diseases. In rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a reduced diversity of the microbiome has been found, which correlates with disease duration and autoantibody levels. Altered gut flora is also suspected to contribute to disease development in type 1 diabetes (T1D).
Inflammatory Bowel Diseases and the Microbiome
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is associated with an imbalance of the intestinal flora. Patients with IBS have been found to have potentially harmful intestinal flora, which may indicate previous intestinal infections or changes in the digestive tract. Chronic inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) are characterized by long-term inflammation of the digestive tract, which is not caused by a single pathogen but by an imbalance of the intestinal flora.
Type 2 Diabetes and the Microbiome
Patients with type 2 diabetes often have altered gut flora. A diet that supports the microbiome can stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Cardiovascular diseases and the microbiome
Changes in the gut flora could influence the risk of cardiovascular disease. For example, increased diversity of microorganisms in the gut could lower blood pressure, and probiotics could also have a positive effect on blood pressure. Fasting followed by a healthy diet could be a promising option for the prevention of cardiometabolic diseases.
Mental Illnesses and the Microbiome
The bacteria in the gut can also affect our neurological functions, which is called the "gut-brain axis." Disrupted communication between the gut flora and the brain can lead to mental illness. Different microbiological communities in the gut have been linked to various mental disorders such as schizophrenia or ADHD. Studies on so-called psychobiotics have shown that probiotics may have a therapeutic effect on mental illnesses such as anxiety disorders and depression.
The influence of lifestyle on the microbiome
A healthy gut plays a central role in our health. A diet rich in fiber, regular exercise and sufficient sleep are crucial for the balance in the microbiome. Antibiotics should only be used when absolutely necessary, as they also kill beneficial bacteria. Stress has a negative effect on the microbiome, so it is advisable to incorporate relaxation exercises into your daily routine.
Probiotics and the Microbiome
In addition to a healthy lifestyle, probiotics can help support a balanced microbiome. Probiotics complement existing gut bacteria and have a positive effect on the microbiome. Fermented foods such as yogurt, sauerkraut, kefir, kimchi and certain cheeses contain beneficial bacteria that can contribute to gut health. Supplements containing probiotics, particularly lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, can also be helpful to help restore gut flora, for example after taking antibiotics. Probiotics can also regulate the immune system, strengthen the gut barrier function and promote general well-being.
