health
Is it true that … having a diverse microbiome stops you from getting sick?
Having diverse microbes in the gut has been promoted as a way to boost immunity, but studies suggest it’s more complicated than that
TL;DR
- The microbiome, trillions of microorganisms on and in our bodies, is linked to health and disease.
- Gut microbiome diversity has been correlated with better health, but this is mostly correlative.
- New research indicates that microbial competition, rather than just diversity, might be more important for health.
- Synergistic microbial growth can be harmful, while competition helps maintain balance.
- There is still much to understand about what constitutes a healthy microbiome and how to manipulate it.
- Consumers should be skeptical of products promising significant microbiome health benefits, as the science is not yet conclusive.