The microbiome refers to the vast community of microorganisms—primarily bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microbes—that live within and on the human body, especially in the gut. These trillions of microbes play a crucial role in maintaining health, optimizing digestion, enhancing the immune system, and augmenting metabolism. The balance and diversity of these microorganisms is vital to gut health and overall well-being. Research has shown many connections between the microbiome and various aspects of mental health, weight management, inflammation, hormone production and chronic disease.
A large part of our microbiome is in the gut. The gut microbiome aids in digestion, produces essential vitamins, and fends off harmful pathogens. Each person's microbiome is unique, shaped by genetics, diet, lifestyle, and environment. Maintaining a healthy and diverse microbiome is essential for optimal digestive function, long-term health and longevity. Optimized and personalized nutrition, exercise, and a balanced lifestyle can all support the health of this invisible ecosystem.
One of the most fascinating roles of the gut microbiome is its involvement in producing neurotransmitters and hormones. Many gut bacteria help synthesize neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which regulate mood, sleep, and emotional responses. In fact, about 90% of the body’s serotonin—a neurotransmitter often linked with happiness and emotional well-being—is produced in the gut. This communication between the gut and the brain, known as the gut-brain axis, highlights how a healthy microbiome is essential for mental health.
In addition to neurotransmitters, the microbiome also influences hormone regulation. Gut microbes can impact the production of hormones like cortisol and insulin, regulating emotional stress and blood sugar. This interaction plays a role in metabolic health, stress response, and even appetite regulation. An imbalanced microbiome, or dysbiosis, can disrupt this delicate hormonal balance, potentially contributing to issues like anxiety, acne, infertility, depression, weight gain, and metabolic disorders.
To support a thriving microbiome, it’s important to focus on a clean and nutrient dense diet, regular physical activity, stress management, and a balanced lifestyle. A healthy microbiome is the foundation to gut health, mental wellness, and overall vitality.
Microbiome testing
We use advanced testing from Jona, using the “shotgun sequencing” approach. This technique can identify 10 times the populations of organisms and has greater accuracy at the subspecies level than the standard PCR testing used in many commercial microbiome tests. Using the power of Artificial Intelligence, this system brings in a tremendous amount of published research articles for a further clarification of the vast microbiome. We use this information along with our own expertise of gut health and years of experience of personalized nutrition and lifestyle programs to tailor the treatment with precision and accuracy for you.
