Microbiome

The microbiome – the inhabitants of our gut

The health of our gut is closely linked to our general well-being. Often, its inner workings give us clues about disorders and diseases long before we ourselves notice them. However, stress, an unhealthy diet and lifestyle can upset the delicate balance of our gut and the bacteria that live in it, which can have a significant impact on our health.

What exactly is the microbiome and how does it affect our bodies? The microbiome refers to all the microorganisms that live on and inside humans. Trillions of microorganisms live in our gastrointestinal tract, collectively referred to as the gut microbiome. Not all gut bacteria have a positive impact on our health, so an imbalance between protective and harmful bacteria can lead to health problems.

What do our gut bacteria do?

Digestion: Intestinal bacteria aid in the digestion of hard-to-digest carbohydrates and fibre. They also convert fibre into short-chain fatty acids. These serve as a source of energy for intestinal cells and promote intestinal movement.

Vitamin production: Our gut bacteria produce various vitamins that contribute to our daily intake. These include vitamins B1, B2 and B6, as well as vitamin K.

Detoxification: Some gut bacteria can neutralise toxic substances. The microbiome therefore also plays a role in detoxifying environmental chemicals.

Immune system: The intestinal bacteria in our intestinal mucosa form a microbial barrier against pathogens that enter the gastrointestinal tract. They thus prevent dangerous pathogens from entering the body. In addition, short-chain fatty acids can reduce the permeability of the intestine to pathogens.

How can I tell that something is wrong?

When we are exposed to poor health for long enough, it can sometimes seem normal. However, our gut often gives us clues about unhealthy lifestyle choices that we need to pay attention to.

Clear symptoms include frequent flatulence, cramps, digestive problems, difficult bowel movements or a bloated stomach.

Although a bloated stomach is not unusual, it can still be caused by food intolerances and therefore provide insights into our general state of health. Since everything in our body is interconnected, intestinal problems can also manifest themselves in other organs – for example, irritated skin can indicate gluten intolerance or similar conditions.

Our microbiome analysis

Our microbiome analysis, carried out in collaboration with biovis.de, enables us to obtain valuable information
about the condition of the gut. The test allows us to identify and treat imbalances
in the microbial balance.

How is the microbiome examined?

First, we will conduct a consultation to take your medical history, including your symptoms. You will then be instructed to collect a stool sample at home and send it to us yourself using the prepared documentation. After approximately 14 days, we will have your results, and we will analyse them in detail together during your consultation and provide you with recommendations on nutrition, supplements and behaviour. This will then also be made available to you in print.