How does the gut microbiome play a key role?

 

How does the gut microbiome play a key role?

The gut microbiome comprises numerous microorganisms residing in the digestive tract. Its influence extends across multiple facets of our physiology, including digestion and immune function. Discover the key role of a gut microbiome from the best gastroenterology doctor in Newtown. 

Key role of a gut microbiome

Know how a healthy gut microbiome plays a vital role in regulating our body’s physiology.

• Promotes digestion: The gut microbiome helps in the digestion and absorption of nutrients from food. Beneficial bacteria enable the breakdown of fibre, complex carbohydrates and other indigestible compounds. This facilitates nutrient absorption and promotes regular bowel movements. An imbalance in the gut bacteria can result in bloating, diarrhoea or constipation.

• Strengthens immunity: Around seventy per cent of the body’s immune system resides in our gut, as per the best gastroenterology doctor in Newtown. A balanced and diverse gut microbiome helps in regulating the immune function. This enables us to distinguish between beneficial microbes and harmful pathogens.

• Controls inflammation: A healthy gut microbiome helps in maintaining the body’s inflammatory response. An imbalance in the gut bacteria can result in chronic inflammation, which in turn, is associated with diseases including heart disease, obesity, diabetes and inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.

• Absorption of nutrients: Some gut bacteria produce short-chain fatty acids and vitamins that are essential for overall health. For instance, gut bacteria synthesize B and K vitamins that play a significant role in energy metabolism and blood clotting.

Ways to maintain a healthy gut microbiome

Diet, lifestyle and medications play a vital role in regulating our gut microbiome. The consumption of fiber-rich fruits, whole grains, vegetables and fermented foods help in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. Prebiotics and probiotics are also significant for supporting gut health and introducing beneficial microbes and feeding existing ones.

Find out more ways by which you can maintain a healthy gut microbiome from the best gastroenterology doctor in Newtown.