The human digestive system contains trillions of microorganisms, mostly beneficial bacteria, known as the gut microbiome. These bacteria live in a delicate balance with the body and play essential roles in digestion, immunity, and even mental health. ✳️ The Importance of Beneficial Bacteria: 1. Aiding Digestion: Some types of bacteria break down complex dietary fibers and convert them into short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which benefit the intestinal lining. 2. Producing Certain Vitamins: Such as vitamin K and some B vitamins, like B12 and B7. 3. Strengthening the Immune System: Beneficial bacteria stimulate the immune system to recognize foreign substances and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria by competing for nutrients and space. 4. Regulating Bacterial Balance: Beneficial bacteria prevent the spread of pathogenic germs by secreting inhibitory substances or by occupying receptors on the intestinal walls. 5. Influencing Mental Health: Recent studies indicate a gut-brain axis, where bacteria influence the release of serotonin and other neurotransmitters. ✳️ Causes of Microbial Imbalance: Excessive use of antibiotics. A diet low in fiber and high in sugars and fats. Chronic stress. Certain medical conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or Crohn's disease. ✳️ Ways to Support Microbial Imbalance: 1. Consume dietary fiber (such as vegetables, oats, and whole grains). 2. Eat fermented foods such as yogurt, kimchi, and natural pickles. 3. Use probiotics (supplements containing beneficial bacteria). 4. Reduce antibiotic use to only when necessary. 5. Maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Beneficial bacteria play a pivotal role in human health, and maintaining their balance through a healthy diet and lifestyle is essential. Any disruption to this balance can lead to serious long-term health problems. Therefore, microbiome care has become a priority in modern medicine. Al-Mustaqbal University, the leading university in Iraq.