An allergy is an excessive reaction of the immune system to substances that are normally harmless, such as pollen, dust mites, pet hair or certain foods. Complaints can manifest themselves as a runny nose, watery eyes, itching, shortness of breath or intestinal complaints.

The immune system is largely influenced by the intestine. Therefore, the gut microbiome is seen as an important factor in allergic diseases. Research shows that changes in the composition of the microbiome may affect the way the body responds to allergens.

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that can lead to shortness of breath, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Some people with asthma also experience intestinal complaints.

Research shows that both the gut microbiome and the respiratory microbiome can differ from that of healthy individuals. The so-called gut-lung axis is central to this: the interaction between gut health and lung health. Although this field of research is still under development, there is increasing evidence that the gut microbiome plays a role in asthma.

Psoriasis is a chronic condition in which skin cells renew themselves faster than normal. This often causes red, scaly patches on the skin. Although psoriasis is visible on the skin, it is considered a condition in which the immune system plays an important role.

The intestine has an important function in the regulation of the immune system. Therefore, interest in the relationship between the gut microbiome and psoriasis is growing. Research shows that changes in the microbiome may contribute to inflammatory processes involved in skin complaints.

COPD is a chronic lung disease in which the airways and lungs are damaged. This makes breathing more difficult and can cause complaints such as shortness of breath, fatigue and reduced fitness.

It is striking that people with COPD also have intestinal complaints relatively often. In addition, various studies show that there is a relationship between gut health and lung health. As with asthma, this is referred to as the gut-lung axis. These findings indicate that the gut microbiome may play a role in the development and progression of COPD.