The term microbiome is known as a set of genetic material found in an organism’s macrobiotics, that is, in its bacterial flora.
These genes constitute an instruction manual that allows the elaboration of several substances necessary to carry out processes such as digestion and absorption of nutrients, elaboration of various types of vitamins, elimination of toxic substances and control of microorganisms that cause different diseases.
Main functions
The microorganisms that make up the normal bacterial flora of an organism, which are more than a group of colonizing bacteria, are important allies.
These microorganisms are important contributors to the immune system . Thanks to them, access and colonization of body surfaces that come in contact with the outside are difficult, as is the case of the tissue that covers the entire digestive system and part of the genitourinary system. It is known that the involvement of bacterial flora by the use of antibiotics is associated with the development of infections by specific types of microorganisms.
Another important function of microbiotics, thanks to its genetic material or microbiome, is its participation in various metabolic processes that are necessary to obtain vitamins such as vitamin B3, vitamin B6, folic acid and vitamin K
These microorganisms also contribute to the production of enzymes such as lactase, necessary to digest milk and other dairy products, and even intervene by facilitating the process of absorption of vital elements such as calcium and iron contained in food.
The microbiome also allows the production of proteins necessary to carry out the disintegration of complex carbohydrate chains (long chain), thus facilitating that these sugars can be absorbed and become a source of energy for the body.
Another fundamental function of the microbiome is to contribute to the development of various systems in the body, especially the digestive system. Studies carried out in animals kept in sterile conditions showed little intestinal development and maintained a low weight when compared to animals raised in normal environmental conditions.
How can we improve the microbiome?
The best way to have an adequate bacterial flora, which provides genetic material that brings benefits to the organism, is through the ingestion of fresh food, such as fruits and vegetables.
It is also recommended the consumption of dairy products rich in probiotics, which are a source of lactobacilli-type bacteria, which once ingested colonize the intestine and become part of the individual’s intestinal flora .
Prebiotic-type foods have a different mechanism of action. Prebiotics are rich in complex sugars, essential substances for the maintenance of bacteria that form the intestinal flora.
