Dr. Joseph Mercola - Take Control of Your Health Your Gut Bacteria Is Under Attack by Pesticides and Everyday Chemical Pollutants
Dec 23, 2025
Discover the hidden dangers lurking in everyday chemicals that attack beneficial gut bacteria. Researchers reveal 168 toxic substances, including pesticides and plastic additives, that disrupt gut health. Learn how glyphosate and other pesticides alter gut microbiomes, leading to inflammation and metabolic issues. Practical tips include choosing organic produce, integrating probiotics, and using glass containers over plastics. Plus, track your symptoms to identify triggers and boost your body's detox pathways for better health.
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Widespread Chemical Toxicity To Gut Microbes
- Researchers tested 1,076 common contaminants against 22 gut bacterial species and found 168 chemicals toxic to beneficial microbes.
- Flame retardants, plasticizers, and banned antibacterials showed widespread suppression of protective strains.
Gut Bacteria Can Sequester Persistent Pesticides
- Ohio State tested 18 pesticides against 17 human gut bacteria and found microbes accumulate persistent organochlorines like DDE.
- Microbial uptake may explain how residues persist in the body and affect host metabolism.
Microbial Metabolism Shifts Drive Organ Inflammation
- Metabolomics showed shifts across 40 microbial pathways including amino acids and vitamins after pesticide exposure.
- These metabolic changes linked to inflammation and altered lipid signaling in mice.