I bet you had to read that twice!
Firstly, let’s debunk what the gut microbiome is and why its balance is so important for your health.
The gut microbiome is a complex community of trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes, residing in the large intestine. It plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health by aiding in digestion, synthesising vitamins, regulating the immune system, and protecting against harmful pathogens. An optimal gut microbiome is essential for efficient nutrient absorption and metabolic function.
However, it can become dysfunctional, leading to dysbiosis (an imbalance in microbial populations). Factors such as a poor diet high in processed foods, chronic stress, lack of sleep, and the use of antibiotics or other medications can disrupt this balance. Even a single course of antibiotics can eliminate up to 90% of your gut bacteria! It's evident why our gut microbiome can become imbalanced. The implications of gut dysbiosis can contribute to various health issues like obesity, inflammation, and digestive disorders, including IBD, SIBO and candida. Maintaining a healthy gut microbiome is, therefore vital for optimal health.
So, How Exactly Does The Microbiome Cause Weight Gain?
The two most abundant groups of bacteria in the gut microbiome are Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes. Research indicates that overweight individuals tend to have a higher proportion of Firmicutes compared to Bacteroidetes, leading to more calories being stored as fat.
Curious if Your Microbes Are Affecting Your Weight?
Our Stool Test Package provides a comprehensive report on your gut microbiome and overall digestive health, delivering insights into inflammation, digestive efficiency, and nutrient absorption and weight gain. Additionally, stool analysis can reveal imbalances in yeast, parasites and H.Pylori.
You can access our Stool Test Package from our Testing page.
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