The Human Microbiome: Fun Facts from an Invisible World
What is the Human Microbiome?
The human microbiome is defined as the collection of human microorganisms trillions in number including bacteria, viruses, archaea and fungi, which reside primarily in the gut, both inside and on the mucous membranes and skin. They assist in sustaining one's well-being.
How Many Microbes Do We Have?
It has been estimated that approximately 36 trillion cells are present in the human body, with 38 trillion bacteria housed, benefitting the body significantly. It is noted that microbes have an edge over human cells, and to add on, humans are not the only living beings in the world, which further needs consideration with mention to ecosystem balance. The human microbiome is the assortment of microbes that reside on and within an individual's body, making them a part of the second genome. Mentioning about it these microbes add a lot of genes into humans' DNA. These new genes added comprise intricate microorganisms enabling the body to digest food, defend oneself, and aid the body in performing several body functions among a wide array—metabolism and how one expresses their genetic material. We humans require such partnerships for survival.
Where are microbiome located?
- Gut (Intestines)- Your gastrointestinal tract especially the large intestine is the biggest and most diverse component of the microbiome. These microbes also assists in digestion of food, synthesis of vitamins and support your immune system.
- Your skin is believed to have microbes that are helpful in protecting you from harmful microbes and maintaining the health of skin. Different zones such as dry or oily skin have their own sets of microbiomes.
- An fungi, viruses and bacterial species which are found in the mouth aids in digestion and protects from pathogens and thus the mouth has different bacterial species.
- Nose and the respiratory tract contain microbes that assist to get rid of harmful particles. Microbes around the lungs and nasal cavities also assist in immunity.
What Roles Do These Microbes Play?
Microbes assist in digesting food, regulating the immune system, and influencing metabolism. They help break down nutrients, protect against harmful pathogens, and improve energy balance.
- The number of bacteria in the human body is estimated to be 38 trillion.
- Microbes are more numerous than human cells, which are approximated to be 36 trillion.
- The majority of these bacteria live in the gut.
- Microbes are helpful in the digestion of complex food as well as nutrient absorption.
- The microbiome helps moderate and strengthen the immune system.
- It deals with how energy is used and metabolism.
- Diseases could be associated with microbiome disruptions.
- In order to maintain the health of your microbiome, a balanced diet high in fiber is recommended.
- Also known as “the second brain,” the gut microbiome.
- The microbiome may help explain some issues related to mood and mental health.
Second genome
The term Second Genome denotes the diverse collection of microbes (bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms) that inhabit the human body and are collectively termed as the microbiome of humans. This second genome is considered an extension of the genetic blueprint because of the profound microbes impact health, metabolism, and even mood. Compared with the human genome, the microbiome in the human body is comprised of an array of genetic material exceeding one hundred times the number of genes, called metabolic genes, vital for metabolism. Beyond aiding in the digestion of food, these microbes also regulate metabolism and synthesize vitamins, along with many other crucial activities. Microbiome genes perform essential tasks that human cells cannot, such as breaking down complex carbohydrates and counteracting harmful pathogens. In turn, we provide a safe environment for these microbes, including a warm, nourishing, and digestive tract-rich habitat
Health Implication
There is now abundant evidence that microbiomes assist in the effective functioning of the immune system in preventing disease and even in mental wellness. Balanced microbiomes improve health, while unbalanced ones are linked to dysbiosis, diabetes, obesity, autoimmune conditions, and mental health problems.
Why Is the Microbiome Important?
Healthy microbiomes are critical for digestion. While a digestive system breaks food down into simple nutrients, complex sugars and other fibres, often not easily digestible, require microbes, especially those in the large intestine. Without these microbes, we would not be able to digest some food and absorb vital nutrients. The same microbes synthesize critical vitamins like B and K, crucial for metabolism, immunity, and mental health. The microbiome is associated with diabetes, obesity, and autoimmune disease.logo
Fun Fact About Your Microbiome
The gut microbiome alone can weigh up to 2 kilograms (about 4.5 pounds) and is sometimes called the 'second brain' due to its influence on mood and cognition.
