Our bodies are teeming with billions of bacteria that are essential for our health. The most important ones, the gut microbiome, thrive in the intestines. Even before birth, bacteria play a crucial role in our development. Research has shown that the neural connections in the brain of mouse offspring are influenced by the mother’s gut microbes. While human beings differ from mice, the significant role of gut bacteria in managing overall health is undeniable. In fact, much of what makes us human resides in our guts, as our gut bacteria can even influence the unique ways our genes are expressed. Healthy gut bacteria are not only vital to our physical well-being but also are vital in strengthening the immune system, lowering inflammation, controlling weight, and decreasing the risk of diseases such as diabetes. Indeed, scientists have shown that a change in certain bacteria strains may trigger adverse immune responses, resulting in a variety of illnesses. 

Research has also shown the importance of healthy gut bacteria in the prevention of the number one global cause of death, cardiovascular disease, as well as in processes such as memory, learning, and balancing moods. The gut and brain communicate by producing a variety of neurochemicals and sending them to the brainstem. For instance, serotonin– the happiness hormone– is produced predominantly in the gut. Research also suggests that people with psychological disorders may have different species of gut bacteria, and an imbalance in gut microbes seems to even play a role in the onset of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s by aiding the development of plaques in the brain. 

So, how do we promote the growth of friendly bacteria? Gut bacteria can be easily manipulated through lifestyle changes and a healthy diet consisting of a variety of plant-based foods, whole grains, limited artificial sweeteners and sugar, and pre- and probiotics such as fresh fruits and vegetables, yogurt, and fermented foods. Additionally, scientists have experimented with the idea of treating some diseases by transferring fecal matter from healthy individuals to the gastrointestinal tract of patients suffering from gastrointestinal diseases and have been successful in reversing type 2 diabetes in some patients through the use of fecal transplants. Considering the growing interest in the role of microflora in health and disease, scientists hope to investigate the various strains of gut bacteria through the Human Microbiome Project–a research project studying the microbes that live on and in humans with a vast pool of participants. As we discover more, it is important to remember that maintaining a healthy gut microbiome continues to be imperative to one’s overall health and well-being.