What is Microbiome?

Microbiome is terminology many people talk about, but do not always fully understand, especially how it impacts skin health. Basically, the microbiome is a combination of various microorganisms such as bacteria, bacteriophage, fungi, protozoa and viruses that live inside the human body.

The human microbiome is made up of 100 trillion microbes of which the majority of them live in the gut. The microbiome is our own personal army of soldiers that are essential for human development, immunity, nutrition and skin health. These bacteria living in your gut are not invaders, but beneficial colonizers. When there is an imbalance in the microbiome it is known as dysbiosis.

We depend on a vast army of microbes to stay alive. Microbiome protects us against germs, breaks down food to release energy and produces vitamins.

Why is the Gut Microbiome so important?

The gut microbiome plays a very important role in our general health by helping to control digestion and benefitting our immune system as well as many other aspects of our health. Of course this is also where skin health comes in, because skin is the biggest organ in the body.

An imbalance of unhealthy and healthy microbes in the intestines or gut, may contribute to weight gain, high blood sugar, high cholesterol, metabolic & inflammatory diseases, cancer, depression, infant health and longevity and of course many others.

The Microbiome and the impact on skin health

Something we all want is radiant healthy-looking skin. We try all the external treatments and therapies money can buy, however, many times we forget to look at a very important factor;  that is to also work from the inside out! Again, the importance of Gut health!  Keep your microbiome inside your body happy and healthy and you will be happy & healthy!

What causes Dysbiosis?

Dysbiosis can be caused by many environmental factors like pollution, smoking, poor sleep and stress or it can be caused by what we eat and drink. Some of the bad culprits are: sugar, unhealthy processed foods, refined carbohydrates and the lack of real wholesome foods

Some research has indicated that an unhealthy gut can have a big impact on our overall health, mood, weight, blood sugar levels, our ability to fight disease and our skin health. Dysbiosis in the gut could contribute to skin spots, inflammation, eczema, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, acne vulgaris, rosacea and even dandruff.

Having a healthier gut microbiome may promote having a healthier fatty acid profile in your skin. This means that your skin could be more moisturised, hydrated, protected and looking great & glowing.

How do we keep our microbiome healthy in order to ensure a clear, radiant and healthy looking skin when working from the inside out?

1. Choose more plants – 1/2 your plate should consist of plant foods including vegetables, salads and fruits
2. Drink enough clean safe water – recommended is 6-8 glasses of clean distilled water per day
3. Include prebiotic rich foods like oats, onions, leeks, sauerkraut, garlic, soymilk and legumes
4. Include probiotic rich foods like plain yoghurt, kombucha and kefir. Catch enough Z’s – try and get enough good sleep for a healthier gut microbiome

Summary

Remember we are all human and making changes to your lifestyle and diet can sometimes be challenging, but having the intention and taking one step at a time will bring you closer to your gut health goals.

The old adage of “You are what you eat” is very true!

For more information or to be put in touch with Tanya Alberts – Dietician from
Transform Your Health Network (TYHN)  please contact us on
info@thegoddessfactor.co.za or WhatsApp 063 292 8968