Genetics – An individual’s gut microbiota is partly determined by genetics and may impact the influence of diets.
Diet – Dietary habits modify the composition of the gut microbiota but effects vary depending on the type, length, quality, and diversity of the diet.
Antibiotics – Antibiotic treatment impacts both pathogenic and beneficial microbiota in our gut which impacts the diversity and composition.
Natural environment – Exposure to microbial diversity in urban v. rural settings, outdoors, parks/green areas, air, home.
Early life – Exposure to microbiota during the perinatal period and early infancy has important effects on the developing immune system and health later in life.
Delivery mode
Lactation/weaning period
Feedings
Environment
Later life – Diet, general environment, and lifestyle can influence the microbiota and health throughout life.