Did you know that our body contains 39 trillion microbial cells? That’s more than the number of our human cells (there are 30 trillion of them). How incredible is that??
Among these trillions of microbes that inhabit different parts of our bodies are bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Now, don’t frown and make a “this is gross” face just yet because these microbes actually keep us healthy—not just physically, but mentally as well.
The gut microbe, for example, breaks down toxins, absorbs, nutrients, and assists in activating the genes in human cells, among other things. During infancy, the gut microbiome helps us develop our gut immune system, and as we grow and develop, it helps us to maintain it.
There are numerous ongoing research studies on how the gut microbiome affects different body parts such as the lungs, heart, liver, and brain. Speaking of our brain, gut bacteria produce neurochemicals (hundreds of them) that our brain uses to regulate psychological and mental processes like mood, memory, and learning.
For example, 95% of the body’s supply of serotonin (a chemical that influences your mood and gastrointestinal activity) is manufactured by gut bacteria. So, it may seem crazy, but your gut microbiome has a critical role in the state of your mind.
We shouldn’t overlook the skin biome as well. Dr. Richard Gallo, a leading medical scientist in the fields of human immunology, skin biology, and the microbiome. Heexplains that “the microbes on our skin have co-evolved with our body to help protect it and maintain health. One general theme is that they help to protect against pathogens and limit inflammation.” So, the skin biome protects our bodies from outside harm, improves our immune system, eases inflammation, and fights off infections.
Studies have shown that getting in touch with microbiomes present in nature (for example in soil and plants) can actually recharge our immune defense system. One study presented breakthrough findings on how rubbing dirt on your hands can be good for your skin and your health. Researchers involved in the study explain how “being closer to nature-derived microbes is a type of “drill” for our immune systems.”
There is so much more to be discovered on the topic of microbiomes and bacteria. What’s widely popular in the world of science right now is bacterial whole genome sequencing (WGS), which is finding bacteria that already exist and that can be leveraged to do our bidding for us. So, yes, bacteria are even used for finding cures.
But what about oral microbiomes? Does our mouth's ecosystem also have an army of bacteria that are protecting us from outside dangers? Let’s find out!
Dajana Ivkovic
Author