Week 06: Microbiome

In week 6 we talked about how food affects our microbiome. Originally, it was thought that bacteria outnumbered human cells by 10 to 1, though I've seen some articles online say that that's a myth; I've seen numbers that tote 3:1 and even 1:1. Regardless, it’s clear that there’s a symbiosis without our bodies between the microorganisms and our own cells, and we are better for it.

My midterm and final was based on microbiomes. It's interesting to see just how closely the food we eat dictates how we feel, which in turn affects how we think and act (see: cognitive behavioral therapy). Because many of our neurotransmitters are produced in the gut, the amount and diversity of microbes is a key factor. Studies are being conducted to see how different diets affect the microbiome. One studied observed two groups of women, one would eat yogurt twice a day, and the other would not. They found that those who ate more yogurt were better equipped to handle stress. This concept extends to all bacteria based foods.

Some have advocated having a dietician be a small part of therapy and used as a first line of defense before jumping into medication. Those whose conditions are not severe enough to warrant strong medication may first try eating microbiome-promoting foods before taking psychiatric meds.

It is impossible to try to separate psychology and physiology, and we are slowly starting to recognize that fact. I think with further research, we’re going to be able to uncover new therapeutic techniques which can enhance our overall wellbeing. We so easily compartmentalize the mind from the body, but in taking a closer look, we can see that they are two sides of the same coin.