In recent years, the term “microbiome” has gained significant traction in both scientific circles and popular media. But what exactly is the human microbiome, and why is it important for our health, particularly in relation to chronic diseases?
What IS the Human Microbiome?
The GI tract is the largest interface we have with our outside environment—just think for a moment about all the stuff that enters our mouth every day. Clearly, by design there had to be a world of its own down there inside out digestive tracts, and one of its many functions would be to deal with all of that which comes from the outside. The human microbiome refers to the vast community of microorganisms that live within and on our bodies. This includes bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes. In fact, it’s estimated that there are more microbial cells in our body than human cells, with the majority residing in the gut. There are 100 trillion bacteria living in your gut! There are anywhere between 300 to 1,000 species of those bacteria. And just to give you a glimpse of complex these little beings are, here is the genetic comparison between “us and them”: There are 23,000 human genes know to science today and there are…. over 3.3 million bacterial genes known to science. Clearly, these things outnumber us in complexity. The good news is that we have lived “together” peacefully for thousands of years, and we are together by design from above. But we must learn to live together peacefully and in harmony for both of our kingdoms to prosper and flourish.
What Does a Microbiome DO?
The microbiome plays a critical role in many of our health functions:
- It protects the GI tract from injury
- It modulates bone density
- It modulates our immune system
- It modulates our metabolism
- It manufactures hormones and neurotransmitters
- It synthesizes vitamins K and B12
- It breaks down fiber and produces short chain fatty acids, which are fuel molecules for the gut and are essential for proper immune functioning.
- It affects the nervous system via the Gut-Brain Axis.
The composition of the microbiome varies significantly from person to person, influenced by factors such as genetics, diet, environment, and lifestyle.
Emerging research has highlighted the connection between the microbiome and various chronic diseases, including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and autoimmune disorders. This often happens through disturbances in microbiome such as dysbiosis, which is basically any deviation from the normal microbiome content that could disrupt the symbiotic relationship between the host and associated microbes. Dysbiosis looks different in different people since no two people have the same underlying “healthy” microbiome. And it is not so much about the microbe as it is about the effect of that microbe on a susceptible host, i.e., it is about the relationship between host and microbe.
What SPECIFICALLY Can Happen When Things Go OUT-of-Whack in Our Microbiomes?
- Metabolism and Obesity: Studies have shown that the composition of gut bacteria can affect how we metabolize food. Certain microbial profiles are associated with obesity and insulin resistance. For instance, some bacteria can harvest more energy from the food we eat, leading to weight gain. Alterations in gut bacteria can also disrupt hormones that regulate appetite, contributing to overeating.
- Inflammation and Autoimmune Diseases: The microbiome plays a crucial role in regulating inflammation. A balanced microbiome supports a healthy immune response, while an imbalance—often referred to as dysbiosis—can trigger chronic inflammation. This persistent inflammation has been linked to autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues.
- Gut-Brain Axis: The gut and brain communicate in complex ways, often referred to as the gut-brain axis. The microbiome can influence mental health and neurological conditions, including anxiety and depression. Some gut bacteria produce neurotransmitters like serotonin, which can affect mood and cognition. Imbalances in the microbiome have been associated with increased risk for psychiatric disorders, highlighting the importance of gut health in mental well-being.
- Cardiovascular Health: Emerging evidence suggests that the microbiome may influence cardiovascular health through its effects on cholesterol metabolism and blood pressure. Certain gut bacteria can produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that have beneficial effects on heart health, while others may contribute to the production of compounds that increase the risk of atherosclerosis.
- Diabetes: The microbiome may also play a role in the development of type 2 diabetes. Research indicates that individuals with diabetes often have a different microbial composition compared to healthy individuals. Some gut bacteria can affect insulin sensitivity, while others can influence inflammation and fat storage.
What CAUSES Disturbances in the Microbiome?
- Stress (always a number one cause of everything bad!)
- Chronic exposure to foods you could be sensitive to
- Infections, such as E. coli from holiday barbequing for example or various parasitic infections.
- Inflammatory conditions of the gut, such as colitis or gastritis.
- Impaired digestive function
- Nutritional insufficiencies, such as a lack of fiber in the diet which can lead to short chain fatty acid deficiency.
- Environmental toxins
- Various medications
- Various Diseases
How is Functional Medicine HELPFUL in Identifying & Treating Dysbiosis and Other Disturbances of the Microbiome?
Functional Medicine doctors focus on identifying the root causes of microbiome disturbances rather than merely treating symptoms. They utilize comprehensive assessments, including detailed patient histories, advanced Functional lab tests, and nutrition and lifestyle evaluations, to understand individual health patterns. This personalized approach helps in pinpointing specific imbalances in gut flora and other contributing factors, such as diet, stress, and environmental influences. Once underlying triggers have been identified, functional medicine aims to restore balance through targeted interventions. These may include dietary changes, supplements, stress management techniques and lifestyle modifications. By addressing microbiome functioning, functional medicine not only alleviates symptoms but also helps prevent the progression of chronic diseases. This comprehensive care model empowers individuals to take charge of their health, promoting long-term wellness and vitality.
