It’ll do a lot more than just improve digestion.
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Your stomach is home to billions of live bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and microscopic fungi.
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But don’t sweat it — these tiny organisms help break down food and keep your digestive system healthy.
A study from August 2021 found that when older mice received microbiome transplants from healthy, younger mice, they showed improved brain function and behavior.
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In humans, studies show healthier microbiomes correlate with better cognitive function. This might even help with brain and body health as you age.
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Eating a wide variety of foods can diversify the microbiome, and raise defenses against illness and mental decline as you age.
A diverse, healthy microbiome is linked to a stronger immune system. One study even found it might help mediate the body’s response to Covid-19.
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We’ve also seen immune system improvements in patients who have fecal transplants when their microbiome is weakened due to antibiotics.
A healthy microbiome can help regulate metabolism and decrease the risk of metabolic diseases.
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This means a healthy microbiome may also play a role in managing obesity.
There’s also a link between gut health and skin conditions like eczema, acne, and psoriasis.
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Though there’s limited research on how skin conditions are related to the microbiome, preliminary studies suggest probiotic supplements show promise for restoring skin health.
Several studies report a correlation between gut health and mental health. More specifically, unhealthy microbiomes have been found in people who struggle with certain conditions.
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Observations show that low microbial health is associated with major depressive disorder and anxiety, though more research is needed to show if this is a causal effect.
In a similar vein as mental health, microbiome health has been shown to correlate with the ability to regulate emotions.
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One study from April 2021 found a connection between loneliness and gut health — but it’s unclear yet how, or if, one factor directly affects the other.