Soba Noodle Kimchi Cucumber Salad

The Gut Microbiome...Explained

Let's talk science!

According to trendwatchers, consumers are increasingly interested in learning more about gut health; understanding the use of probiotics and prebiotics as a natural way to support a healthy digestive system.  

Let's start at the beginning -- what exactly is the "gut microbiome"?

A microbiome is the community of microorganisms that can usually be found living together in any given habitat. In the case of the gut microbiome this means the trillions of micro-organisms like bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses living together in your small and large intestine (also known as “the gut.”) Though it may sound strange to hear we have bacteria and fungi living in our bodies, it is normal and even—surprise!—beneficial to our health when those microbes live in harmony. We each have our own unique network of microbes, which we begin to develop as infants and continue to develop as we age through environmental exposures and our diet patterns. The key to a healthy microbiome is a symbiotic relationship between the micro-organisms: a smaller number of pathogenic (disease-causing) microbes peacefully coexist with a larger quantity of healthy microbes. Disturbances in this delicate balance can be caused by prolonged use of antibiotics, illness or infection, and poor food choices over time such disturbances in the gut can negatively impact health.

The Microbiome and Your Health

The microbiome plays such a key role in our health and body function that some researchers refer to the microbiome as an organ itself! The microbiome can stimulate the immune system and help control how your body responds to infection. A healthy gut breaks down potentially harmful food compounds as well as harmful bacteria that are introduced to the body through contaminated food or water.

The microbiome also synthesizes certain vitamins, including B vitamins and vitamin K, and amino acids. New research indicates that the microbiome may play a role in mental health because it produces 90 percent of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which helps regulate our emotions. It also produces the neurotransmitter GABA, which helps control feelings of fear and anxiety.

Broccoli Apple Salad Greek Yogurt

How to Build a Better Microbiome

Do I Need a Supplement?

We always recommend food first! However, if you choose to go the probiotic supplement route, look for the following on a supplement label:

  • Recommended Use | For example, “supports digestive and immune health”
  • Dosage | The amount you need to consume to receive some benefit
  • Strain of Bacteria | For example, Lactobacillus acidophilus MN5
  • CFU (Colony Forming Units) | The total number of live cultures in the supplement; avoid products that state the CFU at time of manufacture since this does not take into account the decline of CFU during storage
  • Use By Date | How long the supplement will contain live cultures

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At FLIK Hospitality Group we believe in great food, great service, and great people. Our wellness first approach ensures our food supports healthy and delicious choices, specially curated by our team of culinary experts and registered dietitians. At FLIK, we believe in seasonality in sourcing our ingredients and providing a customized approach to the culinary and hospitality needs of each client. Our dedication to providing quality hospitality service is unparalleled in the industry.

Join our team and see the FLIK difference. Where a job isn’t merely a job but the start of a career where you can flourish. Check out our current openings here:

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Have feedback or questions for our team? Email us at flikblog@compass-usa.com.