Did you know that your intestine houses more than 100 trillion microorganisms? This gut microbiome — also called intestinal flora — weighs up to 1.5 kg and constitutes a true organ in its own right, at the heart of your digestion, immunity, metabolism... and even your mood.
What is it composed of?
The gut microbiome is a complex ecosystem made up of:
- Bacteria (e.g., Bacteroides, Lactobacillus, Clostridium, Ruminococcus)
- Viruses
- Non-pathogenic fungi
- Commensal parasites
These microorganisms live mainly in the colon, where the density is maximum. Their distribution varies according to the areas of the digestive tract.
The fragile balance: the 10% threshold
| Bacteria Category | Ideal Percentage | Main Role |
|---|---|---|
| Neutral | ~70% | Passive presence |
| Beneficial (probiotics) | ~20% | Protection, digestion, immunity |
| Pathogenic (bad) | <10% | Inflammation, diseases if proliferation |
Above 10% pathogenic bacteria, the risk of dysbiosis increases.
Below 10% pathogenic bacteria, your microbiome remains protective and
functional.
The consequences of imbalance
When bad bacteria exceed the critical threshold, they can:
- Trigger silent chronic inflammation
- Disrupt the intestinal barrier
- Release toxins and harmful metabolites
- Affect the brain via the gut-brain axis
This promotes the appearance of diseases such as:
- Alzheimer's, Parkinson's
- Type 2 diabetes
- Digestive cancers
- Autoimmune diseases
- Metabolic and cardiovascular disorders
How to know if you are above 10%?
Here are the warning signs of an unbalanced microbiome:
- Bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea
- Acid reflux or slow digestion
- Joint or muscle pain
- Frequent headaches
- Chronic fatigue or sleep disorders
- Irritability, anxiety, decreased concentration
👉 These symptoms often indicate a rate of bad bacteria close to 20%.
How to rebalance your microbiome?
At Family Clinic, we offer an integrated approach:
- Digestive assessment
- Personalized nutritional protocols
- Patient education
- Follow-up and health coaching
Key takeaways
- The microbiome is an invisible but vital organ
- The 10% threshold of pathogenic bacteria is a key indicator
- Digestive or joint symptoms can signal an imbalance
- It is possible to naturally rebalance your intestinal flora
Your gut microbiome plays a fundamental role in your overall health. By maintaining the balance below that critical 10% threshold, you're investing in your long-term wellness and preventing numerous health complications.
Warm regards, Dr. Said-Alaoui Moulay Abdellah and the Family Clinic Team