Gut dysbiosis is a state of imbalance within the intestinal microbial community, characterized by a shift in the composition and functional diversity of the microbiota away from a healthy, eubiotic state. This disruption can involve an overgrowth of potentially pathogenic species, a loss of beneficial bacteria, or a reduction in overall microbial richness. Clinically, it is associated with a range of local and systemic health issues, including altered nutrient absorption, chronic inflammation, and disruption of the gut-hormone axis. Addressing dysbiosis is a critical step in restoring comprehensive metabolic and endocrine wellness.
Origin
The term combines “gut,” referring to the gastrointestinal tract, and “dysbiosis,” from the Greek words dys (bad) and biosis (living). It emerged with the increasing recognition of the gut microbiome’s profound influence on human physiology, moving beyond its traditional role solely in digestion. Modern sequencing technologies have allowed for the precise, objective quantification of this microbial imbalance.
Mechanism
Dysbiosis impairs the gut barrier function, potentially leading to increased intestinal permeability, commonly referred to as “leaky gut.” This allows bacterial products, such as lipopolysaccharides (LPS), to translocate into the systemic circulation, triggering a low-grade, chronic inflammatory response. Furthermore, an altered microbiota can interfere with the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and the metabolism of hormones, including estrogens and androgens, thus directly influencing endocrine health.
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