Fascinating Things We Learned So Far About Microbiomes

By Ruth Jackson


The foods we consume and the habits we practice every day play a significant role in ensuring out optimal level of functioning. However, recent studies show that certain organisms within our bodies can also be considered as a major player in the midst. Here are examples of interesting tidbits we managed to learn so far from Microbiome Data Analysis in Mississippi State.

Micro biomes or microorganisms are small bodies that live within the anatomy of humans and animals. Some examples include viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Although they are usually associated with pathogens, there are some bodies that can actually be quite beneficial to the body provided that persons make sure to continue their healthy lifestyle.

For instance, certain organisms are only dangerous if they have an excess amount or if they are stored at the wrong place. In the body, some areas have its own set of bacteria communities where it can be beneficial to that area but may be dangerous to another. For example, certain gut bacteria may not be able to function properly if they move to a different area of said organ.

While different parts of the body have their own set of microbes, many tend to focus on the groups found within our large intestine. This is because the large intestine is considered the largest bacterial ecosystem within a person. On average, a person has about three hundred to one thousand different species of bacteria living in this area alone although this may change.

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.

While there are benefits to having a diverse group of flora living inside the intestines, they also bring setbacks that can result in chronic conditions. In most cases, this is usually a result of certain groups having a higher level of bodies compared to another. When unbalanced, it can affect or hinder the function and contribution of another thus resulting in debilitating diseases.

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.

Persons who regularly consume a high fat and high sugar diet often fall prey to these side effects. Eating too much of these foods lead the body to become resistant to insulin which can lead to type two diabetes. This of course results to the person to become susceptible to other conditions since the immune system becomes warped.

With so many micro classifications that have yet to be identified, there is no doubt that there is still room for research. Considering that we are on the age of technology, one can expect great discoveries to come while also anticipating for the introduction of healthier and more naturally sourced medications. While this may take some time, the wait is definitely worth it.




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