The human gut appears to be one of the most recondite parts of the human body.
While it is not considered as vital as the indispensable heart, nor are its functions as
critical as that of the brain, your GI tract may hide more secrets than you know…
For example, the total number of microbes in your body outnumbers your own body
cells.
A 2014 study conducted by the American Academy of Microbiology estimated that
the number of microbes harboured by the human body is a staggering 32.7 trillion
cells, exceeding our own cells by several trillions. However, further studies show that
this number shows wild variations, with studies quoting a range between……wait for
it……
15 trillion to 724 trillion!!!
Some scientists have even suggested that microbial genes make up for about 99%
of the total number of genes in our body!
The largest number of these, reside in the warm, safe cavern we call the gut, and
together, they are called the gut microbiota. This little ecosystem performs tasks
such as increasing our digestive capacities, performing immune functions and even
shaping our mood+ behaviour. Its activities are so important that some scientists
have gone as far as to call it a functional organ of the human body.
So, the next time you eat, remember……you’re feeding you and the several trillion
bacteria living in your gut.
Khushi Shah
2nd Year CBM
For further reading :
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