Gut Microbiota + Health

Gut microbiota refers to the microscopic living organisms in our small and large intestine. What are these organisms?

• Bacteria and microflora

• Bacteria, fungi, virus

• Fungi, mould and virus

• Bacteria, enzymes and fungi

Our bodies have a symbiotic relationship with our gut microbiota. What does this mean?

Which of the following is not likely to have a positive effect on our gut microbiota?

• Consuming plenty of legumes such as chickpeas and lentils

• Avoiding antibiotics where possible

• A high fat, sugar diet

• Eating wholegrains

The relationship between our gut microbiota and how our brain and nervous system functions, describes:

Fill the gaps:

Gut microbiota assist in the digestion of fibre by __________ indigestible carbohydrates and resistant starches into __________.

• breaking down, energy

• dissolving, short-chain fatty acids

• fermenting, energy

• fermenting, short-chain fatty acids

Which of the following is not a type of short chain fatty acid?

• Butyrate

• Proprionate

• Insulin

• Acetate

Which one of the following is not a benefit of short-chain fatty acids?

• Suppress appetite assisting in the maintenance of a healthy weight

• Support immune system and improve resistance to infections by inhibiting growth of harmful microorganisms

• Assists digestion of carbohydrates and some proteins

• Assist in synthesis and absorption of B-group and vitamin C

Research shows that high levels of stress can reduce the diversity of gut microbiota which can allow harmful bacteria to thrive, suppressing our immune response and increasing likelihood of disease​

• True

• False

90% of serotonin (a chemical associated with happiness) is produced in our gut

• True

• False

Despite having large populations of microorganisms in our gut (mostly large intestine) why don't they make us sick and elicit an immune response?