What is the gut microbiome and why is it important?

The gut microbiome is a community of trillions of cells in our body that influences our health, mood, metabolism, and brain function. A diverse microbiome is key for overall well-being.

How do food additives affect gut microbes?

Additives in processed foods, intended to prolong freshness, may be having an unexpected negative effect on the health and diversity of gut microbes.

What are the consequences of low gut microbial diversity?

Lower bacterial diversity in the gut is linked to increased susceptibility to sleep problems, poorer gut health, and greater inflammation.

Home / Health / Gut Microbes Under Threat from Food Additives

Gut Microbes Under Threat from Food Additives

21 Feb

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Summary

Processed food additives may harm beneficial gut microbes.
A diverse gut microbiome is vital for overall health.
Lower gut diversity links to sleep, gut health, and inflammation issues.

Gut Microbes Under Threat from Food Additives

The additives used in processed foods to extend shelf life could be negatively impacting the health of our gut microbes. Our bodies host a vast community of trillions of microorganisms, collectively called the microbiome, which plays a significant role in our overall well-being.

Experts liken the diversity within our gut microbiome to that of a forest; a greater variety and number of microbes enhance resilience against disruptions. This microbial diversity is scientifically established as key to numerous health aspects, from mental state to metabolic processes and cognitive function.

Individuals with lower gut bacterial diversity are more susceptible to issues like sleep disturbances, compromised gut health, and elevated inflammation. Conversely, a highly diverse microbiome is even associated with a longer lifespan, highlighting its profound importance.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.