Could Missing Microbes Be Affecting Your Health & Metabolism?

In the 1990s, researchers discovered something intriguing—children raised on farms had lower rates of asthma and allergies. Dubbed the "Farm Effect," this phenomenon highlighted the role of microbes in shaping immune health. Now, new research suggests that missing microbes might also be influencing metabolism and weight regulation.

The Link Between Microbes & Metabolism

One such microbe, Mycobacterium vaccae, naturally found in soil, was once a regular part of human life. Historically, people inhaled it through dust, touched it while farming, or consumed it via homegrown produce. But as modern life has become more sanitized, exposure has dwindled—potentially affecting our ability to regulate weight.

The Research: Can a Microbe Prevent Weight Gain?

Scientists at the University of Colorado Boulder conducted a study using mice fed a Western-style diet high in fat and sugar. Typically, this diet leads to rapid weight gain. However, mice treated with M. vaccae maintained healthy weights despite eating the same unhealthy foods. They also avoided excessive fat accumulation around their organs—an indicator of metabolic health.

Interestingly, their gut microbiome was just as disrupted as untreated mice, suggesting the microbe wasn’t changing the gut bacteria but rather influencing how the body responded to metabolic stress.

How It Works: Fighting Inflammation & Preserving Metabolism

Instead of altering the microbiome, M. vaccae reduced inflammation, particularly in fat tissue and the brain. This helped maintain proper leptin signaling—a hormone that regulates hunger and metabolism. In contrast, untreated mice on the Western diet showed leptin resistance, a common precursor to obesity.

Reconnecting with Beneficial Microbes

While therapeutic use of M. vaccae is still being explored, we can naturally restore our microbial exposure by:
✔ Gardening – Handling soil and consuming homegrown produce.
✔ Spending time outdoors – Green spaces help support microbial diversity.
✔ Mindful food handling – Avoid over-sanitizing fresh, local produce.

By embracing these simple habits, we may rebuild our connection to the microbes our bodies evolved to rely on—potentially improving metabolism, immune function, and overall well-being.

Original study - https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S088915912400758X

Original write up - Newsletter #351 Human OS, Missing Microbes and Weight Gain