Description
"Microbiota" describes the diverse microorganisms residing in the human body, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and archaea. Populating areas such as the gut, skin, and mouth, they play distinct roles in digestion, immunity, and metabolic regulation. In the intestines, microbiota assist with food breakdown and nutrient absorption. Oral and genital microbiota help maintain pH balance and prevent infections. Supporting systemic health, a well-balanced microbiota is essential for immune defense, digestion, and long-term physiological stability.
Functions in the Body
Category
Deficiency Symptoms
An imbalanced microbiota can lead to symptoms such as constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea, heartburn, bloating, skin rashes, allergies, poor sleep, thyroid issues, rheumatoid arthritis, and type 1 diabetes.
Synergists & Antagonists
The microbiota works synergistically with prebiotics and probiotics to promote and maintain a healthy gut balance, supporting digestive and immune health.
Microbiota
Warnings
Disruptions in microbiota balance can result from antibiotics, antifungal medications, and environmental pollutants, which may reduce beneficial bacteria diversity in the gut and impact digestive and immune health.
Food Sources
Not applicable.
Time Frame
Not applicable.
Depleted By
The microbiota can be depleted by factors such as alcohol, antacids, hormone replacements, antibiotics, antifungal medications, insufficient variation in diet, not enough prebiotics, lack of exercise, smoking, stress, and lack of proper sleep.