But their ruggedness has lately made them leading causes of multi-drug-resistant infections, especially in settings like hospitals where antibiotic use disrupts the natural
balance of intestinal microbes.
To test the
impact of intestinal microbes on the metabolism of indomethacin, the team used antibiotics to deplete the microbiota, then compared metabolism in treated and control mice.
The term «microbiota - gut - brain axis» is used to describe the complex bidirectional signaling that occurs between the GI tract and the nervous system, and emphasizes the newly recognized role
of intestinal microbes in these interactions.
The looming
extinction of the intestinal microbes could be explained by widespread antibiotic use, caesarean sections and less - frequent breastfeeding, especially in industrialised nations.
But this treatment's long - term safety is difficult to ascertain, as a stool sample from any given donor contains its own
mix of intestinal microbes, and some could have adverse effects on a recipient's health.
If anything, research suggests that eating lots of these bugs via fermented foods, like yogurt or sauerkraut, or supplements can help you maintain a healthy
balance of intestinal microbes that aid digestion and keep your immune system strong.
Dr. Galland is a pioneer in studying the
impact of intestinal microbes (the gut microbiome) and intestinal permeability («leaky gut») on health and disease.