THE MICROBIOME
The intestinal microbiome is alive, it feeds itself, of course. It is mainly us who provide it with what it needs to live!
Its quality is important, and our diet has a direct impact on it.
In the intestine, it is the fibers in our food that provide the polysaccharides that feed it. These foods for the micro-organisms that make up the microbiome are the famous prebiotics. They are crucial to its balance.
Food is the only source of prebiotics.
Which foods are rich in prebiotics?
Bananas, onions, garlic, endives, leeks, artichokes, dried vegetables, and whole grains.
We benefit directly from this eating habit because fiber not only feeds the microbiome properly but also cleanses the intestinal wall between the villi.
Natural probiotics are micro-organisms (bacteria or yeast) that are present on the skin, in the digestive system, and on our mucous membranes. They are part of our microbiome and can (if taken in adequate quantities) act on it. They can strengthen its barrier function and boost the immune response.
They are present in many everyday foods: yogurt, cheese, miso, sauerkraut, carrots, beets, fermented drinks such as kefir or kombucha.
Prebiotics will therefore "feed" the bacteria of the microbiome. They thus contribute to maintaining the balance of the intestinal flora by promoting the development of probiotic bacteria.
What can disrupt the digestive microbiome?
An imbalance of the microbiome can be favored by certain factors such as:
- A poor diet (fast sugars, alcohol, etc.)
- Certain diseases/infections
- Taking certain medications (e.g., some antibiotics)
- Stress
- For the skin microbiome, acidity, environmental pollution, UV rays, stress, unsuitable cosmetic products, and even excessive washing can disturb its balance.