By Ross Pelton, RPh, PhD, CCN
Scientific Director, Essential Formulas
What’s More Important for Your Health: Your Genes or Your Gut?
For decades, we’ve been told that our genes are our destiny, holding the blueprint for our long-term health. But what if that’s only half the story? Exciting research is revealing that the trillions of tiny organisms living in your gut—known as the microbiome—may actually be a more powerful predictor of your overall wellness.
Let’s explore what the science says.
Meet Your “Second Genome”
You might be surprised to learn that your body isn’t just your DNA. The Human Microbiome Project discovered that while you have about 20,000 human genes, your gut microbes collectively contain over 3.3 million unique genes.
This vast microbial community is often called our “second genome,” and it raises a critical question: Which “genome” has a greater influence on your health?
What Groundbreaking Studies Suggest
Two large-scale studies have offered some fascinating clues.
Study #1: The FINRISK Study
This massive, 40-year study in Finland collected health data from thousands of people. In 2002, researchers also collected stool samples to analyze their microbiomes.
The Finding: Fifteen years later, scientists found that the composition of a person’s gut microbiome was a significant predictor of their long-term health status. The study suggested that the health of the microbiome was a powerful indicator of wellness, independent of other factors like genetics or lifestyle.
Study #2: A Major Disease Review
A separate meta-analysis reviewed 47 different studies to compare the predictive power of genes versus the microbiome. The analysis covered 13 common health conditions.
The Finding: Overall, the results showed that an analysis of a person’s microbiome was approximately 20% more accurate at predicting their health status than an analysis of their human DNA. For certain aspects of gastrointestinal health, the microbiome was even 50% more accurate.
What This Means for You
The takeaway from this research is empowering: While you can’t change your genes, you can influence your microbiome.
These studies suggest that maintaining a healthy, balanced gut microbiome is a critical factor for long-term wellness.
The Power of a Diverse Gut “Ecosystem”
Think of your gut microbiome as a lush rainforest or a vibrant coral reef. The health of any ecosystem depends on biodiversity. A gut with a wide variety of different beneficial bacteria species is stronger, more resilient, and functions better.
So, how do you support this diversity?
A foundational way to support microbiome diversity is by consuming a wide variety of plant-based foods. Different species of bacteria “eat” different kinds of foods, primarily dietary fibers and polyphenols.
You can find these in:
- Colorful vegetables and fruits
- Whole grains
- Nuts and seeds
- Herbs and spices
- Even dark chocolate!
The Missing Piece: Postbiotic Metabolites
When your friendly gut bacteria (probiotics) digest the plant fibers and polyphenols (prebiotics), they produce a third, crucial category of compounds: Postbiotic Metabolites.
These beneficial compounds are the “output” of a healthy, functioning microbiome. They are essential for:
- Supporting the integrity of the gut lining.
- Helping to maintain a harmonious balance of bacteria.
- Supporting healthy immune function.
- Nourishing the entire gut ecosystem.
The “Malnourished Microbiome“
For most of human history, our ancestors ate a diet incredibly rich in diverse fibers and plant compounds. Today, our modern diets—often high in processed foods—can lack the variety needed to feed our microbes.
Scientists call this the “malnourished microbiome.” When our gut bacteria are starved, they can’t produce the rich blend of postbiotic metabolites your body needs. This can, in turn, challenge the gut lining and affect the balance of the entire ecosystem.
A Comprehensive Approach with Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotics
In addition to focusing on a healthy, plant-rich diet, another way to support your gut is by introducing postbiotic metabolites directly.
Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotics offer a unique approach. They are produced through a multi-year fermentation process using whole foods, including fruits, mushrooms, and seaweeds. This careful process results in a complete formula that delivers:
- PREbiotics: The food to nourish beneficial bacteria.
- PRObiotics: Live, active strains to support microbial balance.
- POSTbiotic Metabolites: The key compounds produced by the bacteria, providing comprehensive support for your gut environment.
The postbiotic metabolites in Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotics help nourish the gut and support a balanced microbiome. This three-in-one approach is why Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotics has gained a worldwide reputation as a trusted, comprehensive supplement for supporting gastrointestinal health.*
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
