Daniel and Kelly’s Extraordinary Universe Do microbes help or hurt you? (featuring Katrine Whiteson)
May 20, 2025
Katrine Whiteson, a microbiome expert and professor at UC Irvine, dives into the fascinating world of microbes and their dual roles in human health. She discusses how these tiny organisms can be both friends and foes, emphasizing the importance of dietary choices like beans for gut diversity. The conversation touches on how infants acquire their microbiome and the impact of antibiotics versus probiotics. With a mix of humor and science, Katrine sheds light on the dynamic nature of our microbial ecosystem and its significant influence on overall wellbeing.
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Complex Human-Microbe Relationship
- Our relationship with microbes is complex, involving both helpful and harmful microbes.
- Most microbes in our body help us, while harmful ones are usually unwanted invaders from outside.
Microbe-Human Cell Ratio Updated
- The old belief was that microbial cells outnumber human cells 10 to 1 in our body.
- Recent calculations estimate the ratio closer to 1 to 1, though it varies continuously.
Microbes Break Down Fiber, Protect Babies
- Microbes in the gut break down fibers humans cannot digest, including sugars in breast milk.
- This symbiosis protects babies as beneficial microbes outcompete pathogens like salmonella.