The human microbiome [all organs/tubes found on the surface of the skin and exposed to the air in the body] not only have a profound impact on our health, but also have a profound impact on our mental health. Do you know that the total DNA of all microorganisms in health is 200 times that of human DNA? More importantly, some of these microbial genes not only help the microbe itself, but also help us!

Where do we get the microbiome?

It is believed that the babies in the uterus are sterile. Until the baby is born, the baby can first contact the mother's microbiome when passing through the hymen. This plays a crucial role in the initiation of the development of the immune system along with the microbial population in breast milk. [Therefore, infants who are caesarean section and/or non-breastfed have a weaker immune system]. In the later stages of life, the microbiome is constantly exposed to the environment. [Therefore, over-sterilization and continued use of antimicrobial fertilizers can have a negative impact on the development of the human microbiome]. One interesting thing to note here is to play with the dog [but not with the cat!] to help build a healthy microbiome. Last but not least, proper nutrition and avoidance of drugs are another factor in maintaining the health of our microbiome.

What is the role of microbes in our emotions and brain?

Now, we know that microbes help digestion, immune system function and vitamin production. But do you know that the same microbes play a role in our mood and brain development?

Microorganisms produce two important compounds, ARA and DHA, which both cause brain cell division. Therefore, these compounds are important for babies and young children because their brains are still growing and developing. ARA and DHA have been shown to play an important role in learning and memory.

In addition, intestinal bacteria send signals to the brain when making neurotransmitters. from

Melatonin release from

 [regulating sleep and inflammation], from

 Acetylcholine from

 [regulating endocrine and REM sleep functions], from

 GABA from

 [regulating anxiety] and serotonin [regulation, mood, social behavior, appetite, libido, sleep and memory], to name a few. In other words, the state of the gut microbiota can largely determine whether you will feel happy or depressed.

How to build a healthy microbiome

• Eat more soluble and insoluble fiber and probiotic foods.

• Avoid sugar, alcohol and dead [ie processed] foods.

• Avoid antibiotics – they don't kill viruses, they kill all good microbes, they make pathological bacteria more resistant.

Human microbes and mood swings was originally published on Spring