We have a complicated system in our digestive system, or 'gut' as it is more often known, that is made up of tissues and organs, each of which has a specific job to play in the digestion and absorption of our meals and snacks. The mouth, oesophagus, stomach, pancreas, gallbladder, liver, and small and large intestines are among the organs that are affected.
The gut also contains something known as the microbiome, which is a 'community' or ecosystem of bacteria that live there (microscopic organisms). The majority of these microorganisms, of which there are over 500 recognised species, are made up of bacteria. In their bodies, each individual contains around 100 trillion microorganisms, the majority of which are located in the digestive system, however, the microbiome may be found in several other regions of the body, including the nose and the mouth. There is accumulating evidence that it may have an impact on your health in the same way that your inherited genes do.
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What role does the microbiome play in human health?
Apart from aiding in the digestion of our food, our gut bacteria play an important role in the control of our immune systems. The health of our gut, according to a recent study, is connected to a variety of ailments, including acne, allergies, and even melancholy.
There is still much more study to be done, but scientists have already discovered similarities between our microbiome (gut bacteria) and neurological disorders such as Parkinson's, as well as the long-term ailment chronic fatigue syndrome, which is currently under investigation. There is now increasing evidence that our microbiome has a role in obesity and weight control, as well as autoimmune diseases such as Type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.
What causes the stomach to be referred to as the "second brain"?
Because of the millions of neurons that line the gut and emit vital chemical messengers known as neurochemicals or neurotransmitters, the digestive system is sometimes referred to as the second brain.' As a result, the stomach is able to maintain direct communication with the brain, which in turn influences our moods and emotions.
Bacterial colonisation of the gut is critical in the creation of various neurotransmitters, including serotonin, which is produced in the gut and is referred to as our "happy hormone."
What factors may have an impact on gut bacteria?
Every one of us has a unique microbiome, similar to our fingerprints, and this may be altered by a broad range of circumstances, including the manner of delivery at birth, the style of newborn feeding, the use of pharmaceuticals (particularly antibiotics), and the nutrition we consume. Antibiotics and a diet that is poor in fibre, fruit, and vegetables are the most prominent factors that might negatively impact intestinal microorganisms. Antibiotics are medications that are used to treat or prevent some kinds of bacterial infections by killing the bacteria that are present in the body. Despite the fact that they are a crucial medication, they are unable to discriminate between good and harmful bacteria, and as a result, they eliminate both.
Stress may alter the amount and variety of bacteria in our gut, which in turn disrupts the immune system's ability to function properly. This may explain why some illnesses, such as eczema or acne, flare up when we are under a lot of pressure.
What can I do to boost the health of my gut microbiome?
The good news is that there are a variety of things you can do to care for your digestive system and promote a healthy microbiome in your body. Increase the quantity of fibre, fruit, and vegetables that you consume, to begin with, since these are very excellent sources of soluble fibre, which is critical for "feeding" the healthy bacteria in your digestive system. Beans and pulses, such as chickpeas and lentils, wholegrain bread, brown or wholegrain rice, nuts and seeds, oats, and jacket potatoes are examples of high-fibre meals. Fermented foods, such as sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir, are also becoming more popular as a result of their beneficial effects on the stomach.
Following the instructions of your doctor while taking antibiotics is very crucial to having a successful outcome. Antibiotics, on the other hand, should only be used when absolutely essential, according to NHS guidelines. A course of probiotics may be prescribed after antibiotics if you are worried that they may have a detrimental impact on your gut flora. This may assist to restore the proper balance of bacteria in the digestive tract.
Meditation and other relaxation techniques such as mindfulness may assist you to relax and lower your stress levels, allowing them to have a less negative influence on your digestive system.
