The Amazing Microbiome: a Microscopic Ecosystem Within Our Bodies, Part Two

Christine Toomasi, ND, Education and Research for Nutraceuticals Corporation • April 2, 2018

If you missed part one of The Amazing Microbiome: A Microscopic Ecosystem Within Our Body, you can find it here.

Last month, we discussed how the unique, microscopic ecosystem of bacteria, yeast, fungi and even some viruses living inside us form a synergistic partnership for our benefit. Research is continuing to clarify how this ecosystem has a profound ability to influence our wellbeing. The scientific community has launched The Human Microbiome Project (HMP) in order to better understand this connection.

Below are some of the most intriguing findings so far:

Discoveries in Microbiome
The data obtained through the HMP has resulted in over forty published research studies. Each one has opened new insights into topics we are only just beginning to understand.9

What do we now know about the microbiome? 13,14,15,16
1. Diversity exists within healthy microbiome habitats in and on our bodies. Similar to how tropical plants thrive in the tropics and cacti thrive in the desert, our microbes naturally thrive and inhabit specific areas of our bodies. Knowing bacteria thrive in certain habitats highlights the importance of protecting exogenous probiotic supplements through the harsh gastric environment. In fact, depending on the microbial species a majority of probiotics will be killed after supplementation if preventative measures aren’t used to protect them from stomach acid. Specialized enteric coatings on capsules and tablets work well to limit disintegration in the stomach and safeguard probiotic viability until they reach the intestinal tract. In addition, it’s important to find probiotic supplements designed for a targeted demographic to account for microbiome habitat diversity.

2. Our microbiome is constantly changing. Many factors can shift the microbial community landscape throughout our lives, resulting in dysbiosis, or an imbalanced microbiome. Factors such as diet, environment, host genetics, early microbial exposure, and even pregnancy have an influence on our microbiome. However, we know our microbiome can be rebalanced by targeted probiotic supplementation and probiotic-rich foods.

3. HMP researchers report that microbes contribute about 360 times more genes responsible for human survival than our own human genes contribute. The microbiome is an integral part of the following aspects of human health:
• Production of essential vitamins like K2, B12, folate and riboflavin (humans do not have the genetic ability to create these vitamins)
• Enhanced immune function
• Glucose levels and metabolic regulation
• Energy extraction from food
• Pathogenic microbe suppression
• Regulation of the gut-brain axis

Although the Human Microbiome Project (and subsequent research) answers many questions, it is clear that an opportunity exists to explore the untapped potential of the microbiome.

We have only scratched the surface of this amazing micro world. In the coming years, researchers around the world will make remarkable advances in medicine through greater understanding of the microbiome. What we have recently learned highlights the importance of quality, multi-strain, specialized probiotic support. Opportunities for innovation exist in multiple demographic and condition-specific categories, including: women’s health, men’s health, 50+, weight support, oral support, digestive support and many more categories! This is a truly exciting time for science, medicine, and global health!

Christine Toomasi is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor with a special interest in metabolic and digestive health and the human microbiome. She has had articles published in the Natural Medicine Journal, as well as a peer reviewed professional journal. Dr. Toomasi provides medical, scientific and regulatory guidance to Nutraceutical Corporation brands where she offers research support for product development and education advancement. Dr. Toomasi is an active member of the American Society for Quality, Gastroenterology Association of Naturopathic Doctors and Low Carb Diabetes Association.

References

  1. Ursell, Luke, et al. “Defining the Human Microbiome.” Nutr Rev 70, Suppl 1 (2012). S38-44. 10.1111/j.1753-4887.2012.00493.
  2. Whiteside, Samantha, et al. “The microbiome of the urinary tract- a role beyond infection.” Nature Reviews Urology 12, 2 (2015) 81-90. doi:10.1038/nrurol.2014.361
  3. Joint FAO/WHO. Guidelines for the Evaluation of Probiotics in Food. London, Ontario, Canada: 2002. Accessed November, 2017. http://www.who.int/foodsafety/fs_management/en/probiotic_guidelines.pdf
  4. NIH Human Microbiome Project defines normal bacterial makeup of the body. June 13, 2012. https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-human-microbiome-project-defines-normal-bacterial-makeup-body
  5. The Human Microbiome Project Consortium. “A framework for human microbiome research.” Nature 486, (2012) 215-221. doi:10.1038/nature11209
  6. National Institute of Health. “NIH Human Microbiome Project.” hmpdacc.org https://hmpdacc.org/
  7. National Institute of Health. “NIH Integrative Human Microbiome Project.” hmpdacc.org https://hmpdacc.org/
  8. The Integrative HMP (iHMP) Research Network Consortium. “The Integrative Human Microbiome Project: Dynamic Analysis of Microbiome-Host Omics Profiles during Periods of Human Disease.” Cell Host & Microbe 16, 3 (2014) p276-289. http://ddoi.org/10.1016/j.chom.2014.08.014
  9. National Institute of Health. “Examples of Studies That Have Used the HMP Data.” https://commonfund.nih.gov/hmp/databases#HMPuse
  10. Pimental, Mark. “Intestine Microbes in Gastroenterology: Health and Disease.” American Journal of Gastroenterology 1,1 (2012) doi:10.1038/ajgsup.2012.1
  11. Dewhirst, Floyd, et al. “The Human Oral Microbiome” J Bacteriol 192, 19 (2010) 5002-5017. doi:10.1128/JB.00542-10
  12. “Your Body is a Wonderland…of Bacteria.” ScienceNow Daily News (2009) http://www.sciencemag.org/news/2009/05/your-body-wonderland-bacteria
  13. Li, Kelvin, et al. “Analyses of the Microbial Diversity across the Human Microbiome.” PLOS One (2012). http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0032118
  14. NIH Human Microbiome Project defines normal bacterial makeup of the body. June 13, 2012. https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-human-microbiome-project-defines-normal-bacterial-makeup-body
  15. The Human Microbiome Project Consortium. “Structure, Function and Diversity of the Healthy Human Microbiome.” Nature 486, 7402 (2012) 207-214. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3564958/
  16. Govender, Mershen, et al. “A Review of the Advancements in Probiotic Delivery: Conventional vs. Non-Conventional Formulations for Intestinal Flora Supplementation.” 15,1 (2014) 29-43. doi: 10.1208/s12249-013-0027-1

Creamy Spring Pea & Potato Soup

March 28, 2025
Welcome spring with this vibrant, creamy pea and potato soup—a perfect blend of fresh peas, tender potatoes, and aromatic herbs. This silky, nutrient-packed soup is light yet comforting, making it an ideal transition from cozy winter meals to bright spring flavors. Garnish with crisp broccolini, toasted almonds, and a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant, nourishing dish.

We Will See The Sun Soon Chilaquiles

February 28, 2025
Chilaquiles are a classic Mexican comfort food, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time you crave a savory and satisfying dish. Made with crispy tortilla chips soaked in a rich, flavorful chile sauce and topped with cheese, avocado, or whatever strikes your fancy.

Winter Fruit & Vegetable Salad

January 31, 2025
This Winter Fruit and Vegetable Salad brings vibrant colors and flavors to brighten dark months. With roasted beets, juicy citrus, crunchy walnuts, and creamy blue cheese, it’s perfect for Valentine’s Day or a mid-season pick-me-up.

Aloha to Wellness - Mālama Mushrooms

November 1, 2024
The most common question when the topic goes to functional mushroom products tends to be: “Are these magic mushrooms?” Well, this Hawai’i based company is determined to prove that ALL mushrooms are magic. While these aren't psilocybin-containing hallucinogenic mushrooms (most commonly referred to when talking about ‘magic’ mushrooms), their healthful effects are just as remarkable. Mālama Mushrooms is a family-owned business based in Kona, Hawaii, dedicated to promoting health and wellness through the power of superfood mushrooms. Founded by Benjamin Lillibridge in 2015, the brand’s name, "Mālama," meaning "protect, preserve, and nurture" in Hawaiian, reflects the company’s core mission of sharing the healing properties of mushrooms. Residents in the Pacific Northwest are probably most initiated with the wonder of mushrooms. But for those new to the party, welcome! Now let’s give you some ‘mush’ needed context: Mushrooms have been used for targeting a prodigious number of ailments and maladies in traditional cultures medicinal regimes throughout the world spanning millennia. The conventional western world, in their typical resistance to harnessing the holistic capabilities of Earth’s natural intelligence, has been a tad slower to embrace. However, fungi had their historic watershed moment in America during WWII when the power of a lowly fungus, Penicillium spp., was utilized to create the first industrially scaled anti-biotic, Penicillin, and deployed to the allied troops and eventually the rest of the world. This had a dramatic effect on reducing mortality from infections. Today, the literature surrounding fungi such as functional superfood mushrooms such as lion’s mane, reishi, cordyceps & chaga has expanded immensely. Lion’s Mane - Known for its cognitive benefits, Lion’s Mane is often referred to as a “brain booster”. It supports memory, focus, and mental clarity, and has been shown to promote nerve regeneration. Its antiinflammatory properties may also reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Lion’s Mane is a great option for anyone looking to enhance brain health and overall cognitive function for themselves, their family and even their dog! Reishi - Nicknamed the “mushroom of immortality” Reishi is revered for its stress- relieving and immune-boosting properties. It helps calm the mind, improve sleep quality, and strengthen the immune system. Reishi is also known for its anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits, making it ideal for supporting overall well-being. Cordyceps - Cordyceps is celebrated for its ability to boost energy and enhance athletic performance. By improving oxygen uptake and increasing stamina, it’s a popular choice for athletes or those seeking a natural energy boost without a crash. It is also linked to improved lung function and anti-aging benefits. Chaga - Packed with antioxidants, Chaga is a powerful mushroom that supports immune function and combats oxidative stress. It is also renowned for its ability to promote skin health by fighting free radicals and supporting cellular regeneration. Mālama Mushrooms crafts a variety of products that make it easy to incorporate these powerful mushrooms into your daily routine. Whether you’re looking to improve cognitive function, enhance your immune system, or reduce stress, there’s a Mālama product designed to support your health goals. In line with their commitment to quality, Mālama uses organic, fruiting bodies of the mushrooms, a method aligned with traditional practices which does not include any of the oats & rice substrate used in the growing process. But it’s not just obsession with quality that makes Mālama aligned with their namesake of ‘protecting, preserving & nurturing’. The company also donates 5% of profits to the Hawaii Fungi Project, a non-profit dedicated to studying and preserving the native Hawaiian mushrooms, some of which are already on the IUCN’s Endangered Species list and have seldom been seen by human eyes. In addition, during the Maui Fires last year, one of their mushroom farm partners lost 70% of the accounts they sold fresh lion’s mane to overnight. Mālama sprang into action and began dehydrating & extracting their mushrooms to incorporate into their product line and support.

Simple Fire Cider

By Elizabeth Ashbrook • November 1, 2024
This traditional fire cider recipe is an easy herbal remedy to make at home and a potent natural support during cold and flu season! ½ cup onion, chopped ½ cup horseradish, chopped ½ cup ginger, chopped 1 lemon, sliced into ¼-inch rounds 3 jalapenos or 1 habanero, chopped 12 garlic cloves, smashed and chopped 2½ cups raw apple cider vinegar Layer the prepared ingredients in a quart glass jar. Pour raw apple cider vinegar over the fire cider ingredients until just covered. Cover the jar with an airtight lid and place it somewhere you'll see it daily. Keep it away from direct sunlight. Shake or swish the jar daily. Allow the ingredients to steep in the apple cider vinegar for at least 3 weeks. Strain the liquid from the solids and transfer liquid to a clean jar. If you plan on using the fire cider straight, each spoonful can be mixed with two spoonfuls of water. Many people like to take a lemon juice and honey chaser as well. Store your fire cider with an airtight lid in a cool place or refrigerate.

Easy Elderberry Syrup

By Frontier Co-Op • November 1, 2024
1 cup dried elderberries 3 cups water 2 Tbl grated ginger 1 Tbl powdered cinnamon 1 Tbl whole cloves 1 cup honey or agave syrup In a saucepan, combine all ingredients except honey and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer and partially cover with lid. Stir occasionally and simmer until liquid is reduced by half. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Pour through a strainer into a jar (discard solids). Add honey and mix thoroughly. Take by the spoonful or dissolve in hot water or tea. Cover and store in refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or freeze up to 6 months.

Anti Germ Cleaning Spray

November 1, 2024
Go beyond aromatherapy! Harness the power of essential oils for keeping your home clean and fresh during cold and flu season. Use this multi-purpose spray on surfaces and touchpoints like kitchen counters, glass or tile tabletops, sinks, toilets, and doorknobs. * Marlene’s carries a wonderful essential oil blend by Uncle Harry’s called Four Bandits Antigerm Blend. You could also use 55 drops of this blend in place of the suggested essential oils in this recipe. 20 drops organic clove bud essential oil 15 drops organic lemon essential oil 10 drops organic cinnamon essential oil 5 drops organic eucalyptus essential oil 5 drops organic tea tree essential oil 1/2 cup rubbing alcohol 1 1/2 cups distilled water 1 Tbl Dr. Bronner’s Liquid Castile Soap Add essential oils and alcohol to a glass spray bottle. Shake well to incorporate essential oils into alcohol. Add distilled water and castile soap. Shake again and let sit overnight to allow ingredients to meld together. Label and date (cleaning solution should be good for 1 year). Shake well before each use. *Not intended for use on wood surfaces

Matcha Exfoliating Moisture Body Scrub with Pumpkin Spice

November 1, 2024
If your skin could use a boost during this seasonal transition, we have a treat for you! This scrub is especially effective if you towel dry after showering or bathing. Apply it and vigorously scrub until the salt and sugar dissolve, then rinse. Your skin will be exfoliated, invigorated, and oh-so-moisturized with a light and spicy scent. Yum!  ½ cup brown sugar or demerara sugar ½ cup sea salt or Epsom salt 1 tsp matcha powder 1 Tbl pumpkin pie spice ¼ cup coconut oil, melted 1 cinnamon stick for scooping In a medium bowl, add brown sugar, sea salt, matcha powder, and pumpkin pie spice and stir until uniform. Drizzle in the coconut oil and mix thoroughly. If the mixture seems a bit too crumbly, add more coconut oil. When you’ve reached the desired consistency, spoon your scrub into a container and cover until ready for use.

Calendula Care-All Rub for Hands & Feet

November 1, 2024
½ cup dried calendula flowers 3 Tbl cocoa butter 2 Tbl apricot or grapeseed oil ¼ cup castor oil Place calendula flowers in a glass jar. Set aside. Add cocoa butter and oils into a double boiler insert. Gently warm over low heat until cocoa butter is fully melted. Remove from heat and pour over calendula flowers. Cover and steep for 24 hours. Strain into a clean jar and cover. For hands: Massage liberal amount of blend into hands for a few minutes. Gently wipe excess from hands with a clean, soft cloth. For feet: Massage liberal amount into feet a few minutes before bed, then put on soft cotton socks for sleeping. Store in cool, dark place and use within six months.
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