Brett Finlay, a microbiologist and professor at the University of British Columbia, dives into the fascinating world of the microbiome. He explains how our 100 trillion bacteria significantly influence health, weight, and mood. Modern hygiene practices and processed foods disturb these vital ecosystems, linking them to chronic diseases and even mental health issues. Brett shares tips on nurturing your microbiome through diet, the surprising benefits of flossing, and why some pet interactions might actually be good for you!
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insights INSIGHT
Humans Are More Microbial Than Human
Your body hosts about 100 trillion microbes, roughly equal to the number of human cells contained within you.
These microbes collectively contain 100 times more genes than the human genome, making you more microbial than human.
insights INSIGHT
Modern Life Harms Microbiome Diversity
Modern life has drastically reduced our microbiome diversity through over-hygiene and excessive antibiotic use.
This microbial loss disrupts immune development and can increase autoimmune, allergic, and metabolic diseases.
insights INSIGHT
Microbes Linked to Leading Deaths
Nine of the top ten causes of death globally are linked to microbial imbalances, not just infections.
Microbiome disturbances contribute to diseases like heart attacks, strokes, obesity, and diabetes.
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In 'Let Them Eat Dirt', Brett Finlay emphasizes the significance of early microbial exposure for infants and children. The book argues that exposure to microbes in infancy is essential for the development of a healthy immune system. It addresses how modern practices, such as excessive cleanliness and antibiotic use, can disrupt this natural process. The book also explains that early microbial exposure can influence the development of the gut, brain, and other bodily functions. Furthermore, it suggests that a lack of exposure to diverse microbes in early life may contribute to the rise of conditions like asthma, allergies, and obesity. The documentary emphasizes that letting children play in dirt and interact with nature can be beneficial for their health.
The Microbiome Master Key
The Microbiome Master Key
Harness your microbes to unlock whole body health, lifetime vitality
Brett Finlay
In 'The Microbiome Master Key', Dr. Brett Finlay explores the intricate world of the microbiome and its profound impact on human health. The book delves into how the trillions of microbes residing in our bodies influence our weight, mood, and susceptibility to diseases. Finlay elucidates the ways in which modern life, particularly our overemphasis on hygiene, has disrupted our microbial ecosystems. He also highlights the connection between the quality of our microbiome and the leading causes of death. The book offers practical advice on how to boost microbiome health through diet and lifestyle adjustments. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the microbiome's role in overall well-being.
When you think of the microbiome, you probably think of your gut. But bacteria live all over your body. And they’re incredibly numerous; you play host to about as many microbes — a hundred trillion of them — as you do human cells.
As my guest will explain, these microbial ecosystems are not only ubiquitous but hugely influential for your health — impacting everything from your weight and mood to your risk of developing many diseases.
Dr. Brett Finlay is a microbiologist and the co-author of The Microbiome Master Key. Today on the show, Brett explains what the microbiome is, how modern life — including our overemphasis on hygiene — has damaged it, and how the quality of your microbiome is connected to nine of the top ten leading causes of death, as well as everything from depression to Parkinson’s. Brett also shares how we can boost the health of our microbiome, including whether probiotic supplements are effective, how something as simple as flossing your teeth can cut your risk of Alzheimer’s by 50%, and why you might want to let your dog lick you in the face.
The Art of Manliness 
