On every channel, news outlet and in doctors’ offices, people talk about protecting against bacteria. Even influencers and celebrities are emphasizing protection against harmful bacteria.
The counterstatement has been made that some bacteria are beneficial. Similar to how cleaning the body is helpful but not to overdo it as it can scrape off natural flora.
A study conducted by the University of East Anglia found that close companions can influence the composition of the gut microbiomes also known as gut bacteria.
This study observed the day-to-day interactions of birds from Seychelles.
Harvard Nutrition defines microbiomes as a community of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses and fungi living in the gut, which can be beneficial or harmful depending on balance.
Harvard also simplifies this concept by treating microbiomes as an internal ecosystem for gut health. Microbiomes’ functions include digestive and immune system support, vitamin creation and protection.
Harvard Nutrition mentions the known determinants of how microbiomes are composed, which has to do with diet, environment, medications and childhood experiences allowing these microorganisms to coexist in balance.
This is why each person has their own unique composition of the gut microbiomes.
Generally, differences in microbiome composition can affect how these microorganisms’ function in digestion, immunity and overall health.
Since many lifestyle aspects influence gut bacteria composition and composition impacts the way these microorganisms behave, it is clear why the scientists at the University of East Anglia claimed their findings suggest similar patterns may occur in humans, though more research is needed.
The theory suggests that close social interactions can influence the composition and diversity of gut bacteria.
This notion is skewed toward the positive side, describing actions such as hugging, sharing meals, being close to one another and sharing households.
However, the study specifically states that it’s the social connection part of these actions that supports the theory.
As with every discovery and theory, there are benefits and drawbacks to this theory of close companions being able to change gut bacteria. Some benefits include potential transfer of beneficial microbes, strengthening gut ecosystems and increasing diversity in microbiomes so it can tackle more tasks.
With every advancement comes consequences, including spreading harmful microbes or promoting imbalanced microbiota.
Focusing on living situations and familial dynamics, the study indicates that the longer people live together, the more similar gut microbiomes tend to become over time.
Even when people live in a different arrangement, the change of routine with this cohabitation can gradually change a person’s gut bacteria.
Microbes can spread through close contact, shared environments and surfaces, though direct interaction increases the likelihood of transfer.
Although the effects are generally positive, there are also negative effects that should be considered; the study focuses on household dynamics and social connections, and not everyone has positive connections.
Negative or stressful social environments may also impact internal health, including gut microbiome balance.
