About a hundred trillion microbes live
Within our bodies, but until recently their collective
Impact on our well-being was unknown
Now an increasing number of studies have shown
How minuscule organisms a big punch pack
Based on which ones are abundant and which ones we lack
Different disease manifestations we face
In health and sickness, microbes have an important place
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Like all communities, our microbiomes flourish
In diversity and balance, as we nourish
Our bodies, we keep them alive
In turn they keep us healthy and let us thrive
This balance is delicate, and prone to disruption
By the increasing and indiscriminate consumption
Of ultra processed foods, antibiotics and such
Our microbial partners have unwittingly been abused much
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Allow me to mention here the ancient practice of Ayurveda rooted in my culture
Ayurveda suggests that in order to nurture
Good health, one must start by treating the gut right
Feeding the right foods allows one to fight
All kinds of ailments- now we know it to be true
Feeding our microbiome right helps keep chronic diseases at bay too
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The discovery of microbiomes and their importance
To our health is yet another instance
Of humankind being humbled by the realization
That we have not succeeded on this planet in isolation
We contain multitudes, that need
Careful nurturing on our part indeed
Passion...unbridled 