Big Ideas Understand your microbiome
Dec 16, 2025
In this enlightening discussion, microbial ecologist Gene Tyson, nutritional psychiatrist Felice Jacka, and infectious diseases expert Paul Griffin delve into the fascinating world of the microbiome. They explore how our gut flora influences everything from immunity to mental health. Learn about the role of diet, fermented foods, and early-life exposures in shaping our microbial landscape. The trio also tackles the dangers of antibiotics, cutting-edge phage therapy, and the surprising benefits of fecal transplants. A must-listen for anyone curious about their gut!
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Microbiome Is A Personal Identifier
- Each person's microbiome is unique and stabilises around age two to three, letting experts identify individuals and age from microbial profiles.
- Gene Tyson says lifestyle factors like smoking leave distinct microbial signatures that reveal behaviour and diet.
Animals Eat Feces To Boost Microbes
- Dogs eating other animals' feces likely seek microbial diversity and immune benefits, not just gross behaviour.
- Felice Jacka uses animal coprophagy as an example of microbial transfer in nature.
Gut Microbes Produce Key Metabolites
- The gut microbiome ferments food into metabolites that the body uses, influencing digestion and systemic functions.
- Gene Tyson highlights that gut bacteria also produce and consume neurotransmitters, affecting the gut–brain axis.
