Vary your diet - for your gut bugs

It might not be the most appetising of thoughts, but the human intestine is typically home to billions of microbes. Known collectively as the “gut microbiota”, these microscopic organisms can influence our health.

It’s an emerging science, and studies suggest that gut bugs are linked not only to our intestinal function but also to our immune system and possibly even our mood!

What we eat can affect our gut bugs, and variety in the diet could be a key factor. A 2012 study led by the Alimentary Pharmabiotic Centre in Cork looked at the diets and gut bugs of older people living in care and in the community. They found that a more varied diet was associated with a more diverse gut microbiota and also better health.

So shake up the daily menu and eat a wide variety of foods - you could be doing your hidden helpers a service.