Quick answer: Microbial diversity is the variety and abundance of microbes in your gut, and higher diversity is generally linked with better health. Dysbiosis is an imbalance, with too many harmful microbes or too few beneficial ones. A low-fiber, high-sugar diet and antibiotics are common causes. Dysbiosis can lead to inflammation, increased gut permeability and poor nutrient absorption.
Microbial diversity
Diversity refers to the variety of microorganisms living in the gut, mainly the colon. A diverse community is more resilient. See what your gut bacteria do.
What is dysbiosis?
Dysbiosis is an imbalance of the gut microbiome: an overgrowth of harmful microbes, a loss of beneficial ones, or reduced diversity.
Causes of dysbiosis
Poor diet
Diets high in processed foods and sugar and low in fiber starve beneficial bacteria and favor harmful ones.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics can be lifesaving, but they kill helpful bacteria too, and changes can last for months.
Consequences of dysbiosis
- Inflammation: harmful microbes release toxins that trigger immune responses
- Increased permeability: inflammatory signals loosen tight junctions (see leaky gut overview)
- Nutrient malabsorption: digestion and vitamin production suffer
Microbial diversity and healthy aging
Microbial diversity tends to decline with age, and dysbiosis is linked with inflammaging and frailty. Feeding a diverse microbiome is one of the simplest long-term health habits.
How to support diversity
- Eat a wide variety of plants each week
- Include fermented foods if tolerated
- Use antibiotics only when needed, and support your gut afterward
- Follow Phase 3 of the protocol (see Flora Fix)
When to see a naturopathic doctor
- Ongoing bloating, gas, diarrhea or constipation
- Food reactions that seem to be multiplying
- Fatigue, skin flares or joint aches alongside gut symptoms
- You want a personalized gut plan instead of guessing
See a medical provider promptly for blood in your stool, black stools, unexplained weight loss, persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, fever, or trouble swallowing.
Want help finding the root of your gut symptoms?
A free 15-minute consultation with Dr. Kneessi. No cost, no obligation. In-office in Odenton, MD or by telehealth.
Frequently asked questions
What is dysbiosis?
An imbalance in the gut microbiome.
What causes dysbiosis?
Low-fiber, high-sugar diets, antibiotics, stress and infections are common causes.
How do I increase gut diversity?
Eat a wide variety of fiber-rich plants and fermented foods.
Can antibiotics cause dysbiosis?
Yes, sometimes for months. Take them when needed and support your gut afterward.
Sources
This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It does not replace an individual evaluation. Talk with your healthcare provider before starting supplements or changing medications, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or managing a health condition.
Free: The 28-Day Longevity Reset
A simple day-by-day email guide to sleep, movement, food, and daily habits that support healthy aging. It’s free, and you can unsubscribe anytime.
Get the free guide
