The microbiome is the community of trillions (a trillion has 12 zeros) of tiny living things—mostly bacteriaBacteria are super tiny, single-celled organisms that exist almost everywhere on Earth, including right inside you! They might seem small and insignificant, but bacteria play a big role in your health and even your metabolism. • Other Names: You might also hear them called “bacterias” (plural form), but “bacteria” is the… Read More, but also some archaea, fungiFungi are a diverse kingdom of organisms that include mushrooms, yeasts, molds, and many other strange and wonderful life forms. While they aren’t plants or animals, these unique creatures play a crucial role in many ecosystems and also have fascinating connections to metabolism. • Synonyms: While there aren’t many direct synonyms,… Read More, and viruses—that live inside your gutThe intestine is a long, winding tube in the body that plays a very important role in helping the body get the energy and nutrients (good parts from food) it needs to work properly. Think of the intestine like a very busy workshop in a factory, where different workers have… Read More. Think of them as microscopic roommates who play an important role in your health.

The Word “Microbiome” is a Newer Word

This term is a recent invention, popping up in scientific literature around the 1980s. It combines two Greek words:

• “Micro,” meaning “small” (around 1610–1620 AD)
• “Bioma,” meaning “life” (around 1875 AD)

So, “microbiome” literally translates to “community of small life,” perfectly describing this vast world within you.

Microbiome and MetabolismMetabolism is the set of chemical processes that happen inside the body to keep it alive and working. Think of the body as a busy kitchen where food is turned into energy, building blocks, and waste. These processes break down food to release energy, build new cells, and remove unwanted… Read More: A Fascinating Friendship

The microbiome has a surprising impact on your metabolism—the way your body processes food for energy. Here are some ways these tiny tenants influence your internal chemistry:

• Food Breakdown Buddies: The gut microbiomeYour gut microbiome is like a tiny universe inside your intestines! It’s a complex community of trillions of microorganisms, mostly bacteria, but also including fungi and viruses, that live in your digestive system. Imagine a bustling city within your gut, with these tiny residents playing a vital role in your… Read More helps break down complex carbohydratesImagine a long chain of sugar units linked together, like a complex necklace made of candy! Complex carbohydrates are just that—they’re large sugar molecules formed by linking many simpler sugar units (monosaccharides) together. Unlike simple sugars that give you a quick energy rush, complex carbohydrates provide sustained energy because your… Read More and other nutrients that your body can’t digest on its own. This allows you to extract more energy from your food.
• Nutrient Negotiation: The microbiome can influence how your body absorbsAbsorption refers to the process of how your body takes in nutrients from the food you eat. Imagine it like a gateway that allows the broken-down bits of your food to pass from your digestive system into your bloodstream, where they can be delivered to your cells for energy. •… Read More certain nutrients, like vitaminsA vitamin is an organic molecule, which means it’s a naturally occurring compound made up mostly of carbon. Our bodies need vitamins in small amounts to function properly. They help with many important jobs, including: • Building and maintaining healthy bones, teeth, and skin • Converting food into energy •… Read More and mineralsA mineral is a naturally occurring, inorganic solid substance with a definite chemical composition and an orderly crystalline structure. Unlike vitamins, which are organic (made by living things), minerals come from the earth and don’t contain carbon as a main component (think rocks like salt.) The Word “Mineral”: A Long… Read More. They can even produce some vitamins themselves!
• Metabolic Messengers: The gut microbiome communicates with your immune systemYour immune system is like your body’s own personal security force, constantly on guard against invaders like germs (bacteria, viruses, etc.). It’s a complex network of organs, cells, and proteins that work together to protect you from getting sick. But here’s the surprising thing: a healthy immune system can also… Read More and other organsIn the context of the body, an organ is a distinct part made up of different tissues (groups of similar cells working together) that are organized to perform one or more specific functions. Familiar examples of organs include the heart, which pumps blood; the lungs, which facilitate breathing; and the… Read More, potentially influencing how your body regulates metabolism and blood sugarBlood sugar, also known as blood glucose, is a type of simple sugar circulating in your bloodstream. It can be a primary source of energy for your cells. Your body can get blood sugar from carbohydrates that you eat. The Word “Blood Sugar” This term is a modern invention, emerging… Read More levels.

Synonyms for Microbiome:

While “microbiome” is the most widely used term, here are some less common synonyms:

• Gut microbiota (focuses on the microbial residents)
• Gut flora (an older term, less precise than microbiome)
• Microbial community (a general term)

Remember:

The microbiome is a complex and fascinating ecosystem. Maintaining a healthy balance of gut bacteriaGut bacteria, also sometimes called gut microbiome, are microscopic living organisms that reside in your digestive system, especially your intestines. Think of them as tiny roommates living inside your gut, helping you with digestion and even your metabolism! • Other Names: You might also hear them called “intestinal flora” or “microflora,”… Read More is important for overall health, potentially impacting digestion, immunity, and even mood.