Gut Microbiome
The trillions of bacteria in your digestive system that influence metabolism, appetite, and weight regulation.
Plain English
Patient-Friendly Explanation
Your gut is home to trillions of bacteria, collectively known as the gut microbiome. These microbes help digest food, produce vitamins, and influence your metabolism. An imbalanced gut microbiome can contribute to weight gain and difficulty losing weight.
Medical
Clinical Definition
The gut microbiome refers to the diverse community of microorganisms residing in the gastrointestinal tract, comprising over 1,000 bacterial species. Research demonstrates that the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes phyla correlates with obesity, and microbial metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids modulate host energy harvest, insulin sensitivity, and inflammatory pathways.
Key Insight
Why It Matters
Emerging research links gut health to sustainable weight management. At Accord Medical Clinic, Dr. Joseph Wang considers gut health as part of a comprehensive weight management strategy, especially for patients who struggle despite conventional diet and exercise.
Sources
Reviewed against standard medical references.
Medically reviewed by
Family Physician & Registered Acupuncturist, Accord Medical Clinic. MBBS (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Acupuncture (Singapore College of TCM).
Last reviewed: August 2026
This page is general health education, not medical advice. Whether any treatment is appropriate for you is a decision made in consultation after assessment.
