The gut does much more than just digest food. The trillions of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes that make up the gut microbiome interact with many bodily systems. Some experts even describe the gut microbiome as almost like an organ in its own right. To better care for your gut microbiome, it helps to get the facts about this unique community of organisms.
For starters, the gut microbiome plays a key role in digestion and immune function. Imbalances of microbes in the gut may even contribute to conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and mental health disorders, among others. But you can support your gut microbiome in many ways, such as by eating gut-friendly foods and managing stress.
Take this quiz to test your knowledge of the gut microbiome and its role in your health.
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