We cannot underestimate the significance of the gut microbiome and our overall well-being; after all, the bacteria, viruses, and fungi in our gut outnumber our human cells.
In recent research reported in Nature Aging, researchers did a fecal transplant (ok, this is gross, but they fed old mice feces from young mice via a feeding tube) and noticed changes in the brains of the old mice. The old mice had improved memories and were able to solve puzzles faster than before the fecal transplant.
While findings relevant to mice don’t necessarily translate to humans, they indicate that our gut plays a much more significant part in overall health than was suspected a decade ago.
Unfortunately, the studies that link the gut microbiome to aging, debilitating diseases, depression, anxiety, and more never give recommendations on improving the gut microbiome’s quality or diversity.
At this point, the general recommendation is to be careful with drugs, foods that may have pesticide residue on them, and eat prebiotics and probiotics.
NOTE: We are not a physicians. Please consult a medical professional as needed.