What is the Gut Microbiome?

The gastrointestinal tract is where all of our food passes through. It is also where environmental microorganisms pass through which can damage the integrity of the GI tract. The various bacteria found in the GI tract are what make up our gut microbiome also known as the gut flora.

It is said that the amount of bacteria in the gut is ten times more than the number of human cells. The gut microbiome has many roles and benefits our health in many ways. The bacteria strengthen the lining of the gut, shape the intestinal epithelium, maintain energy, regulate the immune system, and protect against pathogens. 

What damages the gut microbiome? 

The gut microbiome is developed during the first three years of life. The mode of fetal delivery, maternal nutrition, environment, maternal medication, stress, genetics, and antibiotics all influence the gut of the infant. Studies found that vaginal births influence a high abundance of bacteria in the infant microbiota. Conversely, an infant delivered through C-section showed a depleted amount of gut bacteria.

The gut microbiome develops and becomes relatively stable in adulthood. The composition of the gut can be shaped by the host and environmental pressures. The integrity of the intestinal barrier depends on physical, biochemical, and immunological factors.  These factors can be damaged by environment, diet, lifestyle, stressors, antibiotics, and parasites.

Environmental factors can include chemical and toxin exposure. Diet factors include an inflammatory diet such as an ultra-processed diet, excessive alcohol, and a high trans-fat diet. Lifestyle factors include smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, etc. Stressor factors can be caused by traumatic events, life changes, or high-pressure tasks, etc. Excessive antibiotic usage and parasites can damage and kill the good bacteria in the gut. 

How can I repair the gut microbiome? 

The gut microbiome can be repaired through steps of healing. This process can take time but will greatly improve overall health.

At AZ Dietitans we will work alongside you through this healing process. We will figure out what is damaging your gut, remove triggers, and repair the gut. We will discuss environmental, diet, lifestyle, stress, antibiotics, and parasitic factors influencing the gut microbiome.

Removal of inflammatory foods, increased physical activity, removal/management of stress, and other lifestyle changes can all improve gut health. The healing process is based on the individual.