Microbiome refers to the collection of microorganisms that inhabit not only the gut, but also the skin, respiratory tract, mucous membranes, urogenital system, and even the surrounding environment. The human body contains more microbial cells than human cells: for every human cell, there are about 1.3 microbial cells. The total mass of the microbiome is 1.5–2 kg, and its genes outnumber human genes by a factor of 150.
Food colorings are additives used to give, enhance, or restore the color of food and beverages. They can be either synthetic (artificial) or natural, derived from plants, minerals, or animals.
Manufacturers use colorings to make products more appealing, as bright colors are associated with freshness and quality. They also help compensate for the loss of natural color that occurs during processing, freezing, and storage. Additionally, certain shades create a recognizable image for the product — for example, oranges are dyed to match consumer expectations.
Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) is a type 4 herpesvirus and one of eight known viruses in the Herpesviridae family. It is primarily transmitted through saliva and other bodily fluids, earning it the nickname &“kissing virus”.
EBV can affect various organs and systems in the body. For instance, it may influence the central nervous system (linked to multiple sclerosis) and the thyroid gland (as seen in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis). Additionally, EBV is associated with certain types of cancer, such as nasopharyngeal carcinoma, Burkitt lymphoma, and Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
