Pesticides and common household chemicals can harm beneficial bacteria living in the human gut, a new study indicates. Scientists discovered that a range of chemicals, including pesticides used in farms and backyards, flame retardants, and plastics may damage your body’s microbiome. Your microbiome is made up of trillions of beneficial microbes that live in harmony with your digestive system. This symbiotic relationship is vital to a strong immune system and your overall health. Damage to the microbiome can lead to a variety of health problems such as obesity, gastrointestinal dysfunction, immune system problems and mental health issues.
The study also found that exposure to these chemicals may cause harmful bacteria to develop antibiotic resistance. As a result of these harmful bacteria trying to overcome these chemicals, some bacteria can become resistant to the antibiotic ciprofloxacin. This makes it harder to treat certain infectious diseases.
Full Story: HealthDay
