The decline of our beneficial gut microbes

Frogs have thrived for hundreds of millions of years, spreading across virtually every corner of the earth, from tropical jungles to subarctic forests. Throughout their evolution, they have developed remarkable defences including antibiotics, against the hordes of bacteria that thrive in their moist environments. One day frogs may also protect us from drug-resistant harmful bugs. Indeed engineers have derived potent new antibiotics from a frog's secretions which harm neither our cells or good gut bacteria.

It’s of concern that we’ve reached this point of seeking out new last resort antibiotics. Our overuse of these life saving drugs has increased resistance. They can even find their way into our food and water.

Disruption of good gut bacteria in young children is associated with an increased risk of developing many chronic diseases including obesity. Farmers use antibiotics in young animals to promote weight gain. It's understandable that the same could apply to giving antibiotics to young children.

The problem:

Modern life, including antibiotic use and Westernised diets, is causing a mass extinction of beneficial gut microbes. 

The stakes:

The loss of these microbes is linked to increased rates of chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes, asthma, autism, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Take home message

Proper hand hygiene, appropriate antibiotic use only, and preventing infections through vaccination and healthy habits.

If on antibiotics, boost your gut microbiome with wholefoods and fermented foods. 

Where possible avoid antibiotics in the very young unless needed. 

Remember that many infections are caused by viruses which do not respond to antibiotics.

Learn more about the decline of our beneficial gut microbes by watching The Invisible Extinction.

This film is available on various platforms, including iTunes and Amazon.