All the microorganisms present in the gastrointestinal tract, including bacteria, viruses and fungi, are collectively known as the 'gut microbiota'. Because our gut microbiota play an essential role in immunity, homeostasis, neurodevelopment and metabolism, a...
The gut uses two barriers to help prevent pathogens from invading the body: the mechanical barrier and the immune barrier. The friendly microbes residing within our gut help to support these defensive barriers by resisting the invasion of pathogens and helping the...
The body is thrilling. Swiftly it adapts to its surroundings, a fine-tuned vessel performing its most impressive acts behind closed doors. We applaud the main players; the brain, the lungs, the heart. But today I'd like to give a little shout-out to the unsung heroes...
A common misconception is that all bacteria are the bad guys, enemies to be vanquished at all costs. Humans clean like we've never cleaned before, harnessing antibacterial hand-soaps and disinfecting sprays in the hope of avoiding bugs, the winter lurgy or worse....
The microbiome is a hot topic in both clinical and pre-clinical research, with new evidence suggesting a link between the microbes living in our body and the ghastly throb in our heads. The ability of our microbiome to influence migraines is an area of active...
I'm obsessed with the microbiome. I love pondering the notion of what it means to be human, armed with the knowledge that not only are we made of 'body' cells, but microbial ones too. What really captivates me, however, is the relationship we have with these creatures...
One of the most challenging aspects of migraine, aside from the pain itself, is identifying what triggers it in the first place. While the cause of migraine has long eluded doctors and scientists, various triggers have been identified, including food chemicals,...
BBQ season is a time-honoured tradition, synonymous with sunny days, casual banter, ice-cold beers and hotdogs. Whilst a mouthwatering treat for some, hotdogs and the chemicals they contain can be a nightmare, sending a migraineur home with their head between their...
We have a lot to thank our microbiome for. Now considered one of the body’s organs, the microbiome defends against pathogens, strengthens the intestinal walls preventing unwanted substances from getting into the bloodstream, helps absorb nutrients, produces vitamins...