An Overview of the Microbiome and the Effects of Antibiotics

The human microbiome is a complex and ecologically active community that plays an integral role in health and disease. This review provides a basic introduction of what the microbiome is and how it plays a role in obesity, gastrointestinal, immune, and mental health, including a brief mention of implications for the pediatric population. It also explores the negative effects of antibiotics on the microbiome and discusses inappropriate antibiotic practices in the United States. Lastly, it analyzes varying approaches to maintain and/or achieve a healthy microbiome through diet, probiotics, and fecal microbiota transplants.