Microbiome, Microbiome, Microbiome

 

There is no doubt that there is more and more fascinating research, funding, testing, writing, training, strategies, interventions, etc related to the trending topic of the ‘microbiome’.

 

This has many benefits and can be of great value of course.

 

Yet, there are many drawbacks to this too. The myopia, infatuation and minutiae related to the microbiome seems often to be as much a distraction than of real value towards the ultimate goal – the individual person’s health goal!

 

That’s why we stay grounded on this topic.

 

For example – Let’s consider a downside to probiotic supps/foods.

 

It is rarely acknowledged that when there is a significant lack of Intestinal Permeability integrity, probiotic products themselves can end up being an additional immune stressor (triggering Neutrophil infiltration). An actual driver of a continuous and chronic inflammatory response that never gets resolved!

 

If it can contribute to progress, then great. But if not, then it requires a grounded and balanced approach.

 

Not a ‘this-for-that’.

 

For Chloe’s Case Study, it was clear that these markers of dysbiosis and depletion in the microbiome’s commensal bacteria was relatively useful. Yes, it could relate to some reasons why she had some of these challenges and solutions to them.

Case Study – in-clinic client-work example.

She had taken several courses on Antibiotics during the months in the lead up to the onset of her UC symptoms 18 months ago.

 

But, there was no real evidence that these should be put in pole position in order of importance and priority.

 

We also often find that the focus and modulation of other factors will be effective in creating more balance in the microbiome, rather than a direct focus on probiotic/prebiotic/postbiotic foods and supplements.