Why Your Microbiome Matters More Than You Think
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The human microbiome is widely misunderstood. Some experts estimate that microbial cells may actually outnumber human ones in our body — making this ecosystem an essential part of who we are. While most of these cells are bacteria, they aren’t foreign invaders. In fact, they’re created by our DNA, which is why taking the right approach to gut health is so important.
You Aren’t What You Eat — At Least Not When It Comes to Bacteria
We’ve long been taught that the gut microbiome is shaped by the foods we consume during our first two years of life. But this idea falls apart when you look at the science.
Our food only contains a small fraction of the ~10,000 bacterial strains found in the human gut. And when you consider that the skin microbiome fully repopulates within days after a deep peel or laser — without any of those strains being present in skincare — it becomes clear: the body knows exactly what it’s doing.
Why does that matter? Because if your DNA is in charge of selecting and maintaining your microbiome, then trying to “repopulate” it using random bacteria from a bottle makes little sense. You’re not giving the body what it wants — you’re giving it what’s in stock.
The Problem with Probiotics
Many people believe probiotics will help restore balance in the gut. But studies show otherwise. In fact, people who take probiotics after antibiotics actually recover more slowly.
Even more concerning is the rise of H. pylori infections as an unintended consequence of probiotic use. I’ve seen this trend repeatedly: someone starts probiotics and soon develops digestive discomfort and redness around the nose — a skin zone that corresponds with the stomach. It’s not just theory. This is happening, and it’s becoming more common.
The root of the issue? Probiotics introduce strains not selected by your DNA, which can create epigenetic shifts and disrupt the natural balance.
Prebiotics Done Right (and Wrong)
Prebiotics differ from probiotics in that they don’t contain bacteria — they simply feed the microbiome. But not all prebiotics are helpful. Fermented foods like yogurt, kombucha, and sauerkraut are often promoted for gut health, but I’ve found they can be irritating and even cause visible skin changes like enlarged pores.
Some prebiotics are overly selective, encouraging overgrowth of certain strains while leaving others under-supported.
The exception? Sea buckthorn oil, especially when it includes the seed, fruit, and pulp. This whole-plant approach supports the entire microbial ecosystem. It’s been shown to improve microbiome health and also offers benefits for ulcers, gut inflammation, and skin clarity.
One Solution, Many Benefits
At Osmosis, we’ve developed supplements that go beyond temporary digestive relief. By addressing viral, yeast, and bacterial overgrowth simultaneously, we’re seeing powerful improvements in clients struggling with issues like:
- IBS
- Crohn’s
- Ulcerative colitis
- Celiac
- H. pylori-related inflammation
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And rosacea tied to gut imbalance
When the microbiome is supported the way the body wants it — not through guesswork, but through DNA-aligned nourishment — the skin often clears on its own.