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What is the microbiome?

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Quick answer

The microbiome is the vast community of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes living in and on your body, especially in the gut. These trillions of microorganisms help digest food, train your immune system, and even influence mood and overall health.

Key things to understand

  1. You host trillions of microbes — roughly comparable in number to your own cells.
  2. Gut microbes break down fiber, make certain vitamins, and produce helpful compounds.
  3. They help train and regulate the immune system from birth onward.
  4. Imbalances are linked to obesity, allergies, inflammatory bowel disease, and even mood.
  5. Diet, antibiotics, and environment constantly reshape its makeup.

People also ask

What does the gut microbiome do?
It digests fibers your body can't, synthesizes vitamins like K and some B vitamins, crowds out pathogens, and shapes immune responses.
How can you improve your microbiome?
A varied, fiber-rich diet with fermented foods generally supports diversity; avoid unnecessary antibiotics, which wipe out helpful microbes too.
Is the microbiome the same as gut bacteria?
Gut bacteria are the biggest part, but the microbiome also includes viruses, fungi, and microbes on the skin, mouth, and elsewhere.

Part of the guide: How Your Body Works →