The intestinal microbiota in adults comprises a wide variety of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, archaea, protists and viruses. More than a hundred trillion bacteria symbiotically inhabit the intestines. Microbiome functions: production of vitamins including K, B and folate, absorption of vitamin D, aid in digestion in starch degradation, production of secondary bile acids, non-digestible substrate fermentation, energy source for colonocytes, production of chain fatty acids short (butyrate). Determinants of the intestinal microbiome: birth: vaginal delivery - colonization by Lactobacillus and others (vagina), breastfeeding - colonization by Bifidobacterium, physical activity: production of anti-inflammatory metabolites and mediators that promote lower intestinal permeability, preservation of mucosal thickness and less bacterial translocation rate; genetics: anatomical development; use of antibiotics, chemotherapy and radiotherapy: selective pressure; social interaction: contact with health professionals being the first factor associated with colonization by multi-resistant microorganisms; ingestion of animal meat: excessive use of antibiotics in the veterinarian, possibility of transfer of bacteria through the food chain. It is essential to seek a healthy lifestyle, seeking a balance in metabolism, avoiding the development of inflammatory and immunological diseases. This gear that involves all aspects of human daily life can strongly influence the quality of the intestinal microbiota. Thus, it is important to consider the natural delivery route, long-term breastfeeding, a rational search for healthy eating, stress management, adequate circadian rhythm, physical activity, rational use of medication, avoiding the indiscriminate use of antibiotics, anti-inflammatories and proton pump inhibitors, moderate use of alcohol, no smoking and reduced use of xenobiotics. In the intention of a broader treatment, a multiprofessional follow-up is suggested, including physician, nutritionist, therapist, physical education professional.

 

Keywords: Intestinal microbiome, Women´s health, Multidisciplinary work