Spit facts: Microbiota edition

In recent years, studies on the gut microbiota (also called bacterial flora) have multiplied exponentially. The immense amount of little creatures that inhabit our bodies could no longer go unnoticed!

Since part of my studies focuses precisely on the gut microbiota and chronic inflammation, here are a few facts to know:

1. The first exposure to bacterial colonisation occurs in utero, so it is essential to maintain a good diet by the pregnant woman.

2. The second factor that determines the type of microbiota is the type of delivery and the way the baby is fed, which means that there is a fairly important difference in the type of bacterial flora depending on whether the baby is breastfed or not (we will go into this in a later article if you are interested).

3. The bacteria, viruses, fungi, moulds and archaea that create our intestinal flora are far more numerous than the cells that form us. In fact, we are talking about 10 trillion of cells, compared to several hundreds trillion of bacteria.

4. All recent studies show that the symbiotic balance of the various microorganisms determines our health condition in the short and long term, as well as the variety of these bacteria.

5. One of the best ways to take care of one's wellbeing is to properly nourish one's microbiota by consuming a balanced, plant-based and fibre-rich diet (in the sense of nutrition).

6. Studies show that even the smallest intake of added sugars can undermine the proliferation of bacteria that are ‘good’ for our health, wiping out our body's protective cells (Th17).  This is deleterious, especially for children; in fact, it is estimated that with the intake of about one can of fizzy soft drink, the immune system shuts down for about 4 hours. Continuous exposure to sugar leads our body to develop a state of chronic inflammation, followed by oxidative stress.

7. Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are at the root of all existing diseases and premature ageing.

8. Another important factor in the formation and maintenance of a healthy bacterial flora is also the ability or otherwise to cope with stress. Indeed, mild stress is necessary for the body to function properly, but when it becomes chronic, it can undermine the individual's well-being.

9. In addition, overuse of drugs and antibiotics deplete various types of ‘good’ bacteria as well as pathogenic ones, leading to major problems such as antibiotic resistance or a general weakening of the immune system.

10. 10) The well-being of the microbiota also determines the well-being of the mind. There is, in fact, the gut-brain-axis (GBA), which consists in the connection between the gut and various emotional states of well-being or malaise. This is because the gut, thanks to its various bacteria, is responsible for the production of several hormones, neurotransmitters and immunological factors that directly or through the autonomic system affect our state of mind. In fact, GBA has a great influence on depression, anxiety, schizophrenia and autism.

11. 11) In addition, through the HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenalin-axis), which connects the gut to the brain, affects the intestinal activity as well as mood and mental well-being!

Did you know these facts?

The world of the gut microbiota is extremely fascinating and complex, so it is important to take care of what you eat and how you handle stress. This is why I have created tailor-made courses for all women who want to start changing the way they live and really feel good!

For any information or doubts, I invite you to contact me or fill in the form on my website.

Take care of yourself!

See you soon,

Arianna

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