FEED YOUR microbiome

Did you know there are billions of beneficial bugs brewing in your belly? By choosing foods to support these bugs, you reap rich mind-body rewards.

- Caroline Robertson

The ability for every environment to thrive and survive depends on a symbiotic ecosystem. Your inner ecology is composed of a unique mix of microbes known as your microbiome or microbiota. Right now, trillions of micro-organisms are communicating and co-ordinating processes to enhance your digestion, immunity, moods and much more. This gut flora family is pivotal to life and longevity.

Health blossoms when you have a diverse and abundant beneficial blend of bacteria, fungi, viruses and protozoa in your gut. Though your microbiome develops from the womb, birth canal and through breast milk, it is constantly evolving. Everybody can benefit from fertilising their gut field but especially those with allergies, candida, diabetes, digestive issues, inflammation, low immunity, mental health issues and obesity.

Your gut houses 70 per cent of your immune system, according to gastroenterologist Dr. Will Bulsiewicz. Research reveals that the microbiota is essential to synthesise amino acids, B12 and vitamin K. A healthy microbiome maintains mental health too by contributing to the creation of serotonin for balanced moods, melatonin for sleep and dopamine for action. Psychobiotics are specific bacteria that are beneficial for your mental state. For example, fermented milk products have been shown to lower cortisol levels, a stress indicator.

Ecosystem enemies

Your colony of colon carers include helpful and harmful microbes. When detrimental micro-organisms outnumber beneficial microbes dysbiosis may develop. This pro-inflammatory, immune dysregulating imbalance can contribute to conditions such as allergies, digestive disturbances, diabetes, heart disease and weight gain.