Dysbiosis

Imagine someone starts noticing strange, seemingly unrelated symptoms. After a glass of wine — a sudden hot flush, nasal congestion, and a feeling of an oncoming cold. A bit of aged cheese — itching, heaviness in the stomach, bloating. After eating strawberries — a rash that disappears without a trace in a couple of hours.

In the morning — a dull headache “out of nowhere.” Throughout the day — bouts of irritability and anxiety. In the evening — insomnia and restless sleep. Sometimes after eating — a wave of fatigue so strong it feels like the body is “shutting down.” During stress or certain phases of the hormonal cycle — abdominal pain intensifies, dark thoughts appear, only to be suddenly replaced by a burst of energy and hyperactivity.

For effective treatment of dysbiosis, it is crucial to begin with accurate diagnostics. In the first article, we discussed the basic concepts of dysbiosis, its impact on health, and potential causes. Many health conditions may present with similar symptoms but require different treatment approaches. As mentioned earlier, dysbiosis-related issues can be identified using a variety of diagnostic methods. The primary ones are stool analysis and breath tests. Stool analysis can detect the presence of pathogenic bacteria, viruses, and fungi, while breath tests effectively reveal carbohydrate fermentation disorders, which may indicate SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth).

Gut Microbiota is a complex ecosystem of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, that inhabit the human intestinal tract. The number of microbes in the human body is estimated to be around 39 trillion, slightly exceeding the number of human cells. However, their genetic material is much richer and has a profound impact on bodily functions.

The microbiota performs many key functions, such as aiding digestion, synthesizing vitamins, protecting against pathogens, and supporting the immune system. A healthy microbiota is key to maintaining long-term health, whereas imbalances may trigger a wide range of diseases.