Our intestines are home to trillions of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. These microorganisms form a microbiome that affects the brain, immune system, and heart health. How do we maintain an optimal balance?
Dr. Catherine
What is the microbiome?
The microbiome is considered another organ of the human body. Its total weight is about 5.5 lbs., with up to 4.4 lbs. in the intestine.
We get our first microbes at birth when we pass through the birth canal. Therefore, during cesarean section, the child is deprived of part of the microorganisms, which affects the composition of its microbiome and may further affect immunity and digestion. In the first 2-3 years of life, bacteria actively populate the body, coming in from food and the environment. All microorganisms know their functions and are in balance. They are divided into useful and opportunistic, which normally do not cause harm. However, under certain conditions such as reduced immunity, they can lead to disease.
It is very important for health to mai...
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