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Essential for health -

Although we can't see them, our body is made up of yeasts, fungi, protozoa, and bacteria living both inside us and on us. We actually have more bacterial genes than human genes, making the human body a kind of superorganism!

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1. Oral microbiome -

Our oral microbiome was probably the first to be discovered back in the 1600s by a Dutch scientist. Back then, Antonie van Leeuwenhoek examined the contents inside his mouth under a microscope.

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A collection of microbes -

He discovered "animalcules" moving around, what we call bacteria, viruses, and fungi today. Our oral microbiome plays an important role in digestion, helping break down food for absorption.

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Healthy oral microbiome -

Open-mouth breathing can make the mouth environment more acidic, while drinking alcohol reduces saliva in the mouth, as do sugary foods. Practice good oral hygiene, and lay off the mouthwash: it kills good and bad bacteria, indisciminately.

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2. Nasal microbiome -

The nasal microbiome plays an essential role in our overall health, filtering the air we inhale to trap particles as they enter the body.

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Over one hundred strains of bacteria -

There are over a hundred strains of bacteria to be discovered in the nasal microbiome, but around two to ten of these make up 90% of this microbiome.

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Environmental exposures -

Environmental exposures such as air pollution, as well as genetics or problems with the immune system, can affect the nasal microbiome.

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Nasal microbes -

Smoking deprives nasal microbes of oxygen and blocks their action against pathogens, interfering with the body's defenses. Quitting smoking and spending less time in polluted areas can help the health of your nasal microbiome.

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3. Skin microbiome -

The skin is home to one of the most complex communities of microorganisms that live on its surface and upper layers.

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Skin health -

This microbiome is made up of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. They play a vital role in protecting us from harmful bacteria.

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Skin health -

The health of our skin depends on these microorganisms. Skin conditions including eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis are associated with imbalances in the skin microbiome.

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Diversity in the skin microbiome -

The health of the skin microbiome depends on the diversity of the microorganisms living in it, which are protecting us from incoming pathogens.

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Disruption -

The health of our skin microbiome is easily disrupted by the pollutants and UV radiation of the modern world. SPF is one way we can protect our skin microbiome.

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Moisturizing -

Another way to protect the skin microbiome is by moisturizing, which feeds the bacteria living on the surface of the skin. In contrast, toner is an astringent and dries out the skin microbiome.

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Moisturizing -

Use a mild cleanser to avoid stripping the skin. Moisturizers made from ingredients such as colloidal oatmeal create a barrier between the skin and the environment.

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4. Gut microbiome -

We're only really beginning to comprehend the impact our gut microbiome has on our entire bodies. Everything from hormone health to our moods and immune systems are affected by it.

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Gut health -

There is such a diversity of microbes in our gut lining that one of the best things we can do for this microbiome is to consume a diet rich in many types of good bacteria.

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Gut health -

The better the diversity of gut flora, the more functions they can perform. When things get out of whack, it leads to something called dysbiosis. This is when pathogens can get the upper hand.

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Imbalances -

Imbalances in the gut microbiome have been linked to conditions like inflammatory bowel diseases, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety. Consuming a diet high in fiber is necessary for good gut health. 

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Probiotics and prebiotics -

Taking probiotics (foods that contain beneficial bacteria for the gut) and prebiotics (fibers that feed the bacteria) can support gut health.

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Probiotics and prebiotics -

Prebiotics such as inulin are found in fermented foods. You can make your own kefir, kimchi, or sauerkraut at home to reap the benefits of good bacteria.

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Diversity -

Eating a diversity of healthy foods, getting good quality sleep, and exercising regularly will help to keep the gut microbiome healthy. You can take a probiotic supplement when traveling or after illness to help restore it.

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5. Genital microbiome -

The genital microbiome is made up of the vaginal microbiome for women and the penile microbiome for men. The condition of this microbiome affects urinary health.

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Urinary tract infections -

Inflammation of the urinary tract caused by stray bacteria traveling upwards can result in infection reaching the kidneys if it's not addressed in time. 

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Urinary tract infections -

For women, who have a shorter urinary tract, these infections are a lot more common. Having a good balance of beneficial bacteria in and around the vagina is necessary.

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Male genital microbiome -

UTIs aren't as much of a problem for men until they get older. Typically it's when men need to begin using catheters that they will experience problems with UTIs.

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Female genital microbiome -

Period products can affect the health of the female genital microbiome, as tampons and sanitary towels contain toxins. Menstrual cups, however, are potentially a less harmful choice.

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Female genital microbiome -

Menopause too can have a negative impact on the vaginal microbiome. This is because levels of estrogen drop in the body. Estrogen helps the production of glycogen, food for good bacteria to feed on.

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Gentle care -

Always finish a course of antibiotics for UTI, avoid douching, and use an unscented, gentle soap that won't disrupt the microbiome.

Sources: (The Guardian) 

See also: How to avoid food poisoning

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