Maintaining Healthy Gut Microbiome
It is widely known that the human microbiome begins in the womb. Microbiome meaning a community of microorganisms (such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses) that inhabit a particular environment, and especially the collection of microorganisms living in the human body. This microbiome further develops through infancy and exposure to mothers’ milk which contains lactobacillus, and probiotic bifidobacteria. As we start the consumption of solid foods and begin crawling on the ground, our exposure to environmental microbes begins and the diversity in our gut takes shape.
Our bodies are home to trillions of microbes. Only 10% of the cells in your body are human - the rest are microbial. Each microbe inhabiting your body has its own set of genes, and those genes affect how your body functions. Certain microbes in the gut help break down dietary fiber, amino acids, and toxic chemicals, while others manufacture vitamins or influence immune function and overall digestion.
Gut Dysbiosis
The modern diet, lifestyle, and lack of routine exposure to environmental microbes can create an imbalance in the gut, otherwise known as dysbiosis.
Dysbiosis Symptoms:
• Fatigue/Weakness
• Indigestion/Nausea
• Abdominal discomfort/Bloating
• Constipation/Diarrhea
• Gas
The world around us is changing faster than our bodies can adapt. In this disconnected modern world a healthy balance of bacteria can be altered. So, what causes gut dysbiosis?
• Antibiotics which destroy bacteria in the gut
• Lack of sleep
• Poor diet
• Prescription medications
• Stress
• Disconnection from nature
Environmental Microbes
Through evolutionary study, it is recognized that human beings had exposure to environmental microbes or spore-based bacteria, with the majority being from soil exposure by way of diet and lifestyle. Science teaches us that the human gut is central to optimal health, and the evidence supports, that biodiversity in the gut microbiota is reflective of the overall health of the individual.
Here at Martin’s Wellness Pharmacy, we have recently acquired an exciting product, consisting of a unique combination of spore form probiotics, and advanced, food-based, ancient prebiotics for fundamental support of gastrointestinal health. The product is TerraFlora by Environmedica, this is an Austin based company and is available for purchase at our Dripping Springs Pharmacy, and Lamar Plaza Drugstore locations.
Be Well,
Edwin Dossman
Enviromedica Terraflora Synbiotic