Microbiome 101
You are 50% bacteria
Your body contains roughly as many bacterial cells as human cells — about 38 trillion. These microbes produce vitamins, regulate immunity, and communicate with your brain.
A healthy vs sick microbiome
Compare the characteristics of a healthy and unhealthy gut.
Diversity is everything
The single best predictor of gut health is microbial diversity. Hunter-gatherer populations have 40% more microbial diversity than people in industrialized nations.
What kills gut diversity?
Swipe left for things that HELP diversity, right for things that HURT it.
Estimate the count
How many plant species per week does research recommend for optimal gut diversity?
The 30-plant rule
A landmark American Gut Project study found that people who eat 30+ different plant species per week have significantly more diverse microbiomes than those eating fewer than 10.
Key Takeaway
Gut diversity = longevity. Eat 30+ plant species per week, include fermented foods daily, and minimize processed food and unnecessary antibiotics.