What is the effect of insufficient endemic, commensal microbes in the gut?

Insufficient endemic, commensal microbes in the gut can lead to pathogenic infections as the balance of gut microbiota is crucial for maintaining gut health and immune function. Commensal microbes play a protective role by outcompeting pathogenic bacteria for resources and by supporting the immune system. When there is a deficiency in these beneficial microbes, the intestinal barrier can become compromised. This allows for pathogens to take hold, potentially leading to various infections or intestinal diseases. In addition, the disruption of healthy microbial communities can impair the gut’s ability to respond effectively to pathogens, leaving the host more susceptible to infections.

While chronic constipation and maldigestion can also result from an imbalance of gut microbiota, they are not the primary direct effect as seen with pathogenic infections. Increased bile production does not typically correlate with insufficient commensal microbes and is more related to dietary factors and liver function. Therefore, the increase in pathogenic infections is a direct and significant consequence of insufficient endemic, commensal microbes in the gut.