Gut Health 101: What The Microbiome Actually Does

"Gut health" gets used loosely, but the underlying idea is simple: your digestive tract hosts a large, diverse community of bacteria that plays a role in digestion, immune function and how your body processes food.

What the microbiome is

The microbiome is the collection of bacteria, fungi and other microbes living mainly in your large intestine. A more diverse microbiome is generally considered a marker of digestive resilience.

What can affect it

• Diet variety — particularly fiber intake from plants
• Ultra-processed foods and added sugar
• Antibiotic use
• Sleep and stress levels

General habits people use to support it

Eating a wide range of fiber-rich plant foods, staying hydrated and limiting ultra-processed foods are commonly cited habits for supporting a diverse gut microbiome. These are general wellness practices, not guarantees of any specific outcome.

General educational information. Not medical advice. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider with questions about your digestive health.