Gut Bacteria: What happens when it’s imbalanced?
The gut microbiome is made up of a diverse array of bacterial strains and imbalances in these populations—either through overgrowth or depletion—can lead to various health issues. The gut microbiome is a complex ecosystem, and and the balance of “good” and “bad” bacteria is essential for maintaining overall health. Here’s a breakdown of some key strains and the potential problems that can arise when they become overgrown or depleted:
Overgrowth of Harmful Bacteria
Certain bacteria, when overgrown, can lead to gut related issues, inflammation, or systemic health problems. Common examples include:
A. Clostridium difficile (C-diff): This bacterium can overgrow, particularly after antibiotic use, leading to Clostridium difficile infection, which causes diarrhea, colitis, and even life threatening inflammation of the colon.
B. Enterococcus faecalis: Normally present in the gut, the overgrowth of this strain can contribute to gut permeability (“leaky gut”) and inflammation, potentially triggering autoimmune conditions like IBS-like symptoms.
C. Escherichia coli (E. Coli): While some of E. coli strains are part of a healthy microbiome, pathogenic strains (such as E. coli O157:H7) can cause food poisoning, severe abdominal cramps and diarrhea. Overgrowth of certain no pathogenic strains is the gut can also contribute to dysbiosis (microbial imbalance), which can worsen symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
D. Bacteroides: While typically part of a healthy microbiome, an overgrowth of certain Bacteroides species has been linked to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease and can promote inflammation.
E. Firmicutes: An imbalance with an overrepresentation of Firmicutes has been associated with obesity and metabolic disorders, as these bacteria are efficient at extracting energy from food which could lead to weight gain.
F. Lactobacillus and Streptococcus: Overgrowth of these bacteria can sometimes lead to conditions like small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), causing bloating, abdominal discomfort and digestive issues.
Depletion of Beneficial Bacteria
When beneficial bacteria are depleted, it can lead to digestive dysfunction, weakened immune defenses and other health problems. Some beneficial strains include:
A. Bifidobacterium: These bacteria play a role in maintaining gut health, aiding in digestion and supporting immune function. Depletion of Bifidobacterium has been associated with digestive issues such as IBS, IBD and increased intestinal permeability.
B. Lactobacillus: This bacteria species help break food down, absorb nutrients and regulate the gut’s pH to keep harmful bacteria in check. A reduction in Lactobacillus is linked to issues like IBS, gastrointestinal inflammation and vaginal infections (in women), as Lactobacillus also helps maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome.
C. Faecalibacterium prausnitzii: This is one of the most beneficial bacteria in the gut. It produces butyrate, a short chain fatty acid that supports gut health and reduces inflammation. Low levels of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii have been linked to inflammatory conditions like IBD and colorectal cancer.
D. Akkermansia nuciniphila: This bacterium is associated with a healthy gut lining and metabolic health. It helps break down mucus in the gut, maintaining gut barrier function. Depletion of Akkermansia is linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and increased intestinal permeability.
E. Roseburia and Eubacterium: Both of these species are involved in producing butyrate and other short chain fatty acids, which are essential for gut health and immune system regulation. Low levels of these bacteria are associated wit IBD, IBS and general inflammation.
Other imbalances and Dysbiosis
A. Small Intestional Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO): A condition where the bacteria that typically reside in the large intestine overgrow in the small intestine. It can lead to symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, constipation and malabsorption of nutrients. Common strains involved in SIBO include: Lactobacillus, Enterococcus and Escherichia species.
B. Gut Brain Axis Disruption: An imbalance in the microbiome can affect the brain, leading to conditions such as anxiety, depression, and cognitive dysfunction. Certain strains of bacteria such as Bifidobacterium long and Lactobacillus rhamnosus have been shown to produce neurotransmitters like serotonin, which influence mood and behavior.
Factors That Can Influence Gut Microbiome
A. Antibiotics: these can wipe out both harmful and beneficial bacteria leading to overgrowth of opportunistic pathogens like C. difficile and an overall decrease in diversity.
B. Diet: diets low in fiber, high in sugar or high in processed foods can deplete beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus while promoting the overgrowth of harmful bacteria.
C. Stress: Chronic Stress can alter the composition of the microbiome, favoring the growth of pro-inflammatory bacteria and reducing beneficial strains.
D. Lack of sleep: Sleep deprivation negatively impacts the diversity of the gut microbiome, potentially leading to dysbiosis and metabolic disturbances.
E. Environmental Toxins: exposure to environmental toxins, including pollutants and pesticides, can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria and impair immune function.
*This is not medical advise or to replace the advice from your healthcare provider. The above is researched I’ve done and found on the internet. This is informational. If you suspect you have an imbalance in your gut microbiome, please seek out your healthcare provider.