Common Medications & Lifestyle Choices Wrecking Your Gut Health: Microbiome Disruptors (Part 2)
In my last blog and video, I talked about how the western diet is a major disruptor of our microbiome, leading to dysbiosis—a condition where harmful microbes outnumber beneficial bacteria, resulting in leaky gut and inflammation.
Today, I want to explore other key disruptors, including medications, lifestyle, environmental factors, and genetics.
Medications and Drugs: A Hidden Threat to Gut Health
One of the biggest disruptors of the microbiome is medication, with the worst being antibiotics since they wipe out the bad and the good bacteria in our guts. Yes, antibiotics are essential and life-saving in some cases, but too often we choose to use them when our own immune system is fit for the job.
I experienced this firsthand when I was prescribed an antibiotic before delivering my first child due to a strep infection. After birth, my baby suffered from colic and thrush. As she grew, she had frequent ear infections and was repeatedly given antibiotics. Only after studying the microbiome did I realize she had developed leaky gut and food intolerances.
Beyond antibiotics, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)—used for acid reflux—are another concern. They reduce stomach acid, which is necessary for digestion, and can lead to Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO). Other medications, such as aspirin, antidepressants, and laxatives, can also disrupt gut bacteria.
Alcohol, Smoking, and Lifestyle Factors
Alcohol is another common disruptor, as it is fermented by yeast, which can overgrow and crowd out good bacteria. Smoking and vaping contribute to harmful bacterial growth in the mouth, which can travel to the intestines.
Stress is a major microbiome disruptor on its own, leading to inflammation and conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Lack of sleep is also problematic because gut bacteria follow a circadian rhythm, just like we do. Sleep deprivation can disrupt digestion and cause discomfort.
Infections from food poisoning or travel exposures can also throw off the microbiome, with long-term effects if not corrected. We’ve seen this with long COVID, where people experience chronic gut issues and weakened immune systems.
Environmental Factors: Are We Too Clean?
Everyday antimicrobial products, such as sprays, gels, and soaps, can negatively impact the microbiome. Over-sanitization prevents small but essential microbial exposures that help develop a strong immune system. The CDC’s “Hygiene Hypothesis” suggests that excessive cleanliness contributes to the rise of allergies in children.
Small exposures are especially important for children, yet I followed the fear with my first born and used antimicrobial gels often. I even recall an elementary teacher that pumped antimicrobial gel into the hands of each student as they came in from the playground. She had good intentions, but you don't know what you don't know. Unless you are working in a hospital system, washing with warm water and natural soap is best.
Additionally, spending too much time indoors limits our exposure to beneficial microbes found in nature. Research shows that children raised in rural environments or on farms have fewer allergies and asthma cases, thanks to healthier gut microbiomes.
Genetics: How Our DNA Impacts Gut Health
Genetics can also play a role in microbiome health. Some people inherit genes that make it harder for their body to clear out harmful bacteria, leading to frequent gut imbalances. Others may have genetic variations linked to mental health conditions like anxiety, which directly impact gut health due to the gut-brain connection.
While genetics can predispose someone to gut issues, maintaining a balanced microbiome is still possible through diet and lifestyle choices.
The Key Takeaway: Balance is Possible
With so many factors influencing our microbiome, it can feel overwhelming. The good news is that our gut microbiome is resilient—it can recover! The real issue arises when we continually overwhelm our gut, leading to chronic health problems.
In my next video and blog, I’ll share how to restore gut balance and improve overall health. Until then, be well!
About the Author: Norma Flood, Integrative & Functional Nutritionist
Norma Flood is a busy mom, wife, friend, and Registered Dietician Nutritionist guiding adults and teens to better brain balance and gut health. Holding a Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences, she is recognized as one of San Diego’s top Integrative and Functional Nutritionists. With a deep commitment to holistic well-being, Norma provides personalized health counseling and applies functional nutrition therapy to effectively support digestive health, mental health, and eating disorder recovery. She offers both in-person and group counseling as well as online education. Follow Norma Flood on YouTube as she shares small, easy steps that you can take each day to support better gut health and mental health using an integrative and functional approach.