Embrace the Imperfection

Cleaning out every single bacterium from our bodies is an insurmountable task, and rightfully so, as bacteria are an integral and indispensable part of our overall health. Within us reside countless billions of microbes that actively participate in crucial processes required for our bodies to function optimally.

The presence of good bacteria is paramount, as they wage war against harmful pathogens, shielding us from a myriad of diseases. They bolster our immune system, empowering us to become stronger and more resilient in the face of the dangers that surround us. However, perhaps one of the most intriguing aspects is how these microscopic beings can even influence our behavior. They have the remarkable ability to evoke a range of emotions, such as anger, sadness, happiness, or nervousness, and can even trigger hunger and sickness.

Microbes do not merely exist passively on tiny patches of our skin; instead, they are engaged in an ongoing struggle for survival. Larger microbes devour smaller ones, while protective bacteria launch attacks against harmful invaders. They release substances that directly impact our bodies. This ceaseless cycle persists, with only a brief interruption when we wash our hands with soap. Within minutes, the dynamic microbial world within us resumes its ever-present activity.

Our bodies provide a home not only to bacteria but also to fungi and viruses, many of which inhabit the depths of our beings, where oxygen is scarce. For instance, within our intestines, an extraordinary microbial abundance exists. If we were to divide the colon of an average person into a million parts, just one of those sections would contain more bacteria than the total human population on Earth. This is not a mere world; it is a vast universe, with the microbial inhabitants playing an influential role in our lives.

Thanks to these microbes, many individuals are spared the burden of allergies. While some sneeze due to pollen or experience itchy eyes from flowering plants, others may develop red skin upon contact with animal fur. These reactions occur because their immune systems mistakenly interpret harmless substances or bacteria from the environment as threats, triggering an unnecessary response.

In the intricate tapestry of our microbial world, bacteria, fungi, and viruses coexist, contributing to the delicate balance that sustains us. Though we may never completely rid ourselves of these microorganisms, it is their presence and intricate interactions that make us who we are—a marvelously complex ecosystem where life thrives in unexpected ways.

Suppose we were to divide the colon of an average person into a million parts, each segment would contain a greater number of bacteria than the total human population on Earth. It is not merely a world but a vast universe within us, and undoubtedly, this universe plays a significant role in our lives.

Microbes have provided a reprieve for many people who would otherwise suffer from allergies. Whether it's someone sneezing due to pollen, experiencing itchy eyes from flowering plants, or developing a red rash upon contact with animal fur, these reactions occur because their immune systems mistakenly sound false alarms within the body. When harmless substances or bacteria from dog fur come into contact with a person's skin or respiratory tract, the immune system interprets them as dangerous and initiates a response. As a result, individuals may experience itchiness, sneezing, or other allergic symptoms. Moreover, the immune system's inability to coexist harmoniously with good bacteria can lead to severe health problems. It may mistakenly attack beneficial microbes, disrupting the delicate balance within our bodies.

However, there is a fascinating aspect to our immune system's interaction with microbes. When harmless microbes establish themselves early within our intestines, they can influence the behavior of immune cells over time. This gradually trains the immune system to stop reacting to a multitude of microorganisms. Therefore, if one desires to achieve this favorable outcome, it is crucial to ensure early and diverse exposure of the body to the environment's biodiversity. It is believed that the formation of the microbiome within a person occurs primarily within the first three years after birth. These microbial companions then accompany us throughout our lives, influencing our health and well-being in countless ways.

In this intricate dance between our bodies and the microbial world, an ongoing interplay shapes our immune responses, our susceptibility to allergies, and our overall health. Understanding and appreciating the vital role of these microbes within us opens up new avenues for research and potential interventions that could harness the power of the microbiome to improve human health and well-being. Our bodies are not solitary entities but rather complex ecosystems, intimately intertwined with the microbial universe that resides within us.

While it is important to maintain hygiene and cleanliness in our daily lives, excessively sterilizing our environment and obsessively fighting germs can have unintended consequences for our immunity. If we constantly sanitize the handles in our homes, meticulously disinfect cutlery, avoid picking up food from the floor, and are afraid of getting dirty, our immune system may become closed off and view any microbe from the outside world as a formidable enemy.

Interestingly, scientists have yet to fully comprehend how the absence of specific groups of microbes can lead to health problems. Individuals who have grown up in excessively clean environments, always striving to eliminate germs, are more likely to develop allergies and experience frequent illnesses. Their immune systems tend to be weaker compared to those of individuals who do not constantly prioritize cleanliness. Running through puddles, swimming in dirty lakes, and getting muddy are akin to workouts for our immune system, helping it build resilience.

However, this does not imply that we should abandon personal hygiene practices altogether. Showers are necessary for maintaining cleanliness, caring for our skin, and eliminating sweat odors caused by bacteria that secrete acids. Nevertheless, it is advisable not to overdo it by showering excessively throughout the day. One or two showers are typically sufficient. Additionally, it is important to be mindful of how we use washcloths. Overusing them can not only wash away harmful bacteria and dirt but also strip away beneficial microbes and essential fats necessary for healthy skin.

Once you step out of the shower, another aspect to consider is drying yourself off with a towel. This seemingly innocuous act can create microscopic cracks in your skin, providing an ideal environment for bacteria to quickly multiply. These bacteria can easily cling to the towel and propagate at a rapid pace.

Maintaining a balanced approach to cleanliness and hygiene is crucial. While it is essential to adopt practices that promote good hygiene, it is equally important to embrace some level of exposure to the microbial world. This allows our immune system to develop and adapt, leading to stronger overall immunity and better health outcomes.

When you use the same towel again the next day, it is now teeming with bacteria, those microorganisms find their way into the micro cracks in your skin. To prevent this, it is advisable to wash towels more frequently to maintain cleanliness and minimize the risk of bacterial transfer.

Scientists have conducted extensive studies to investigate the impact of specific types of intestinal bacteria on mental health, particularly depression. These microbes that reside within us produce substances that can influence the nerve cells in our brain, potentially affecting our mood. Initially, biologists conducted experiments on mice, observing how certain bacteria altered their behavior. Subsequently, researchers studied the effects of bacteria on 1,054 individuals, of whom 173 were diagnosed with depression or expressed dissatisfaction with their quality of life. Comparing the microbiomes of both groups, scientists discovered that those with depression exhibited a deficiency in two types of microbes. However, it is important to note that the absence of these bacteria does not necessarily indicate a direct cause of depression. Further research is required to establish the precise connection between the nervous system and bacteria. Scientists remain hopeful that such investigations will lead to new and effective treatments for various diseases.

The human microbiome also plays a role in our experience of hunger. The sensation of hunger or feeling satiated is not solely a result of an empty or full stomach. Bacteria in the gut contribute to these sensations by interacting with specific hormones that provide a sense of satiety. These hormones are activated through interactions with substances secreted by bacteria. Additionally, a specific type of bacteria has been linked to the development of excess weight. Studies indicate that if the intestinal microbes of overweight individuals are transferred to mice, the animals also begin to gain weight. Conversely, the same principle applies to thin individuals and their associated bacteria.

Understanding the intricate relationship between the human microbiome and various aspects of our health, such as mental well-being and weight regulation, presents exciting opportunities for future research. By delving deeper into the connections between the nervous system and bacteria, scientists hope to unlock new insights that could pave the way for innovative treatments and interventions to improve overall health and well-being.

Just imagine the potential outcomes that can arise from diets based on bacterial therapy. Although microbial medicine is not yet fully developed, scientists hold hope that it will significantly aid in the effective treatment of individuals with serious health problems.

Regardless of what you do, bacteria will always be present around you—they are an integral part of your body, quite literally. Astonishingly, only 43 percent of the living cells in your body belong to you, while the remaining cells belong to living microbes. In a way, a person is a combination of their own DNA and the DNA of their microbes. It almost seems as though bacteria exert control over us, and in some sense, they also play a role in governing the planet.

When tallying up all the living creatures on Earth to determine the most prevalent species, microbes take the lead. Their sheer number and weight surpass that of all other creatures combined. Even within your own body, if you were to gather all the bacteria present, they would amount to roughly three pounds, equivalent to the weight of your brain.

These microorganisms possess an incredible ability to multiply rapidly and persistently, seemingly unstoppable. However, in 1928, Alexander Fleming accidentally stumbled upon penicillin, the world's first antibiotic. It proved instrumental in saving the lives of countless individuals afflicted by harmful bacteria. Yet, it is important to note that penicillin not only eradicates harmful bacteria but also targets beneficial ones. This discovery brought about new challenges when using antibiotics for treating diseases, such as allergies and weakened immunity.

For instance, mice with their natural microbiome can fend off around 1 million harmful Salmonella bacteria, thanks to their protective microbes. However, after a single use of antibiotics, the mice's bodies become susceptible to illness when attacked by a mere 10 Salmonella bacteria. While antibiotics aid in destroying harmful bacteria, they inadvertently harm a significant portion of the beneficial ones. Consequently, maintaining a delicate balance between antibiotics and your microbiome is crucial, and only medical professionals possess the expertise to navigate this terrain effectively.

The intricate relationship between humans and bacteria continues to captivate researchers and medical experts alike. As scientific understanding deepens, it opens the door to new avenues of treatment, prevention, and overall improvement of human health. With ongoing studies and advancements, we may unlock the full potential of bacterial therapies, harnessing the power of these microscopic allies to revolutionize healthcare practices and benefit humanity as a whole.