Microbes....what are they?

Do you know that your genetic makeup is more microbe than human?

Each of us contain our own micro biome that lives in our body and helps preform a multitude of functions. According to the human micro biome project lead by the University of Washington: The micro biome is the genetic material of all the microbes-bacteria, fungi, protozoa and viruses-that live on and inside the human body. The number of genes in all the microbes in one person's micro biome is 200 times the number of genes in the human genome. The microbiome may weigh as much as five pounds. This bacteria lives mainly within our digestive system,although it is also found in our mouths and on our skin as well.One of the biggest benefits of having a healthy microbiome is that these organisms living in our bodies to help us digest our food effectively. More and more studies show that the balance or imbalance of bacteria in your digestive system may be linked to overall health and disease. Consuming foods that contain probiotics can help promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria.

The benefits of a balanced microbiome include weight loss,digestive health and immune function. An imbalance means there is a strain-specific bacteria lover growth and not enough good bacteria. The imbalance can happen as a result of illness, medication such as antibiotics, poor diet or stress. Eating fermented foods such as yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir or miso are all excellent ways to help boost your microbiome.

By Denise Body Registered Holistic Nutiritionalist and Pilates Instructor