What We Learned So Far From Studying Microbiomes

By Ruth Jackson


Many people often attribute health and wellness based on the food we eat and our overall lifestyle. However, research suggests that miniscule bodies living within ourselves can also play a key in determining how optimal our body functions are. Here are some interesting facts to learn from Microbiome Data Analysis in Mississippi State.

Before we begin, we need to first understand what micro biomes are. This term basically talks about the living components living inside us. Some examples include single celled types like fungi and viruses, although most of the focus tends to be on bacteria. Each of these components also varies according to its community and specific strain.

For example gut flora. Most scientists tend to focus their energy into this particular area of the body due to the fact that the large intestine contains various communities of bacteria. Each of which plays a vital role which may include fighting against invaders, metabolizing food compounds, and maintains the lining of both the large and small intestine.

In the case of fighting against invaders, most bacteria flora in the intestine directly attacks foreign bodies by secreting substances that can destroy or hinder its harmful effects. Additionally, they also help regulate the production of antibodies by providing signals that triggers the immune system. Both functions help one to withstand against harmful pathogens.

One way gut microbes can affect our health is the fact that it is often linked to our overall weight. Researchers believe that bacteroidetes and firmicutes, both families of good bacteria are responsible for determining how to break down certain food molecules. If there is a significant imbalance between these two, it could affect how much a person weighs in total.

Next, they help metabolize food. Certain compounds cannot be broken down so easily like certain polysaccharides, starches, fiber, and sugars which the body is unable to absorb on its own. Bacteria helps provide a bridge to absorption by fermenting these compounds which can then be used by host cells as a source of energy.

One such example is the link between obesity and intestinal bacteria. Certain food sources that have high levels of fat, sugar, and calories can trigger the system into activating its natural inflammation response. This may contribute to weight gain and if taken in excess can even lead to insulin resistance which is a precursor to diabetes.

Next is the fact that these are all interconnected. Like previously mentioned, the foods we eat and the habits we practice on a daily basis can help influence our health. Additionally, it can also affect the production of healthy bacteria which should always be in perfect balance. Some handy tips we can do include eating foods rich in fiber, exercise, and taking probiotics.

These are just some interesting facts one can get by carefully analyzing the data that comes with micro biome studies. While research is still ongoing in regards to the different organisms living inside of us, one cannot deny that these tiny components play a vital role in stabilizing our metabolic and immune processes. Both of which are critical in keeping us safe from acquiring chronic conditions.




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