There are more and more studies being done to research the body’s microbiota. Microbiota refers to all the microorganisms that are found in an environment. In the human body, the gut, the vagina, the sinuses, the mouth, the skin, the blood, etc. and each have their own microbiota which includes bacteria, viruses, fungi and other single celled animals.
Humans have many more microbial cells than human body cells. There are close to 10 microbes to one human cell! That is a big deal. Most of these are symbiotic and necessary for the continued health of the host. What does this have to do with good health? These microorganism play a role in many health conditions, impact our immune system, provide nutrients for cells and may prevent harmful cells from multiplying! Integrative medicine practitioners support a healthy microbiota as it is a key component for the overall health of the patient.