Our gut microbiome is a bustling metropolis of trillions of microorganisms that profoundly influence our overall health. Think of it as a living organ working tirelessly behind the scenes to support our digestion, immunity, mental health, and more. They are our warriors, our protectors. 80% of our immune system is in the gut. 80% of serotonin and 50% of dopamine is made in the gut. They are constantly healing the gut lining, supporting digestion and producing nutrients like B Vitamins and Vitamin K. It truly is amazing!
Let’s explore the incredible ways these tiny residents contribute to our well-being, highlighting some specific probiotics from our Gut Microbiome Testing.
1. Digestive Health: The Foundation of Wellness
One of the microbiome’s primary roles is aiding digestion. Beneficial bacteria like Bacteroides fragilis play a crucial role in breaking down complex carbohydrates and synthesizing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). SCFAs not only provide energy for your intestinal cells but also maintain the gut lining—a critical barrier against harmful substances.
Many strains of Lactobacillus help support regular bowel movements and the reduction of bloating as well.
2. Mental Health: The Gut-Brain Connection
Your microbiome communicates directly with your brain through the gut-brain axis, influencing mood, stress responses, and cognitive function. It is literally the 'second brain'. When the gut is happy, mood is more stable and regulated. Certain probiotics like Lactobacillus delbrueckii, rhamnosus and plantarum have been shown to produce neurotransmitters such as serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which help regulate mood and anxiety.
3. Immune System Support
A whopping 80% of your immune system resides in your gut, making the microbiome a critical player in immune health. Some contribute to immune regulation by inducing T-regulatory cells, which help prevent autoimmune conditions while others inhibit pathogenic overgrowth.
4. Energy and Metabolism
Your microbiome helps you extract energy from food and metabolize nutrients. Beneficial bacteria like Akkermansia muciniphila are particularly important for regulating metabolism, reducing risk of Type II Diabetes and obesity, while supporting a healthy weight. They support the gut lining and promote the production of mucus, which protects the intestines and enhances nutrient absorption. We've seen many times in our testing that this specific beneficial bacteria is lower than even detectable!
5. Healing and Inflammation Reduction
The microbiome’s ability to heal and reduce inflammation is nothing short of miraculous. Probiotics like Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus salivarius are known to produce anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe the gut lining, protect against Leaky Gut and reduce systemic inflammation. Remember, leaky gut can lead to autoimmune type issues like Hashimoto's and Rheumatoid Arthritis.
6. Protecting Against Harmful Bacteria
A balanced microbiome prevents overgrowth of harmful bacteria by crowding them out and producing substances that inhibit their growth.
Take a Look at What Your Healthy Microbiome Does for you:

What Happens When Healthy Bacteria Are Too Low?
When beneficial bacteria are depleted, a condition known as dysbiosis can occur. This imbalance may lead to a variety of health issues, including:
Digestive Problems: Constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Weakened Immunity: Increased susceptibility to infections and slower recovery times.
Chronic Inflammation: Conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or systemic inflammation.
Mental Health Challenges: Anxiety, depression, and brain fog due to disrupted gut-brain communication.
Metabolic Issues: Difficulty maintaining a healthy weight and blood sugar imbalances.
Take a look at a sample of some of the Healthy Microbiome we see in our testing:



What Causes Low Levels of Healthy Microbiome?
Several factors can deplete beneficial bacteria in the gut, such as:
Poor Diet: High consumption of inflammatory and processed foods, sugar and artificial sweeteners.
Antibiotic Use: Overuse of antibiotics, which kill both harmful and beneficial bacteria.
Chronic Stress: Stress can alter gut motility and decrease beneficial bacteria.
Lack of Fiber: Insufficient dietary fiber deprives gut bacteria of their primary food source.
Environmental Toxins: Exposure to pesticides, heavy metals, and pollutants.
Sleep Deprivation: Poor sleep quality affects gut health.
Other Medications: NSAIDs (motrin, advil, aleve), PPIs (omeprazole, pantoprazole), Antacids (tums), Antidepressants, Sleeping pills, Laxatives, Statins and Birth Control Pills.
Supporting Your Microbiome Through Food as Medicine
To nurture your microbiome and restore balance, consider incorporating the following foods into your diet:
Prebiotic-Rich Foods: Foods like garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus, flax and green bananas feed beneficial bacteria.
Probiotic Foods: Fermented foods such as yogurt (or coconut-based yogurt), kefir, sauerkraut and kimchi introduce healthy bacteria into your gut.
High-Fiber Foods: Legumes, fruits, vegetables and seeds (chia, flax, hemp) promote the growth of diverse bacterial species.
Polyphenol-Rich Foods: Berries, green tea, dark chocolate, and olive oil have antioxidant properties that support beneficial bacteria.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, these support gut lining integrity.
Bone Broth: Provides amino acids and collagen to help repair the gut lining.
The Takeaway
Your microbiome is a dynamic ecosystem that works tirelessly to keep you healthy. From supporting digestion to regulating your mood, it’s involved in nearly every aspect of your well-being. However, as the data highlights, imbalances can occur, leading to potential health challenges. Maintaining a balanced microbiome through a fiber-rich diet, fermented foods, and probiotics is essential.
By nurturing your gut microbiome, you’re investing in better digestion, a stronger immune system, improved mental health, and a more vibrant life. It’s time to celebrate and care for this silent superhero inside you!
Ready to dive deeper into your overall gut health and microbiome? Contact us about our GI Microbiome Stool Testing.

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