Are Biofilms Making You Sick

Did you try and fix your gut, but you didn’t get any results, or were the results short lived? That could be because you have biofilms in your GI tract.

What is a Biofilm and are they making you sick?

A Biofilm is an extracellular polymorphic matrix of gel-like consistency that some bacteria/fungi can produce. It provides protection and a perfect inhabitable environment for bacteria and fungus. Biofilms make the infectious bacteria, antibiotic or antimicrobial resistant to treatments.

The world of dentistry first recognized Biofilms. The development of a thin film on your teeth after missed brushing of teeth is an example of a biofilm forming. It is now recognized as the cause of oral infections in the mouth.

There are 5 Stages of Biofilm Formation:

1. Initial attachment

2. Irreversible attachment (firm anchoring)

3. Maturation I (forms micro colonies)

4. Maturation II (forms 3D mushroom like structure)

5. Dispersion (detachment and reseeding)

Biofilms impairs function of White Blood Cells immune defenses. They prevent phagocytosis from the neutrophils (WBC).

What causes biofilm formation?

It all starts with an opportunistic environment. Ultimately continuous healthy gut function prevents a biofilm formation. So, what causes an unhealthy gut function?

1. Smoking

2. Alcohol use

3. Antibiotic use

4. Sugars or simple carbs

5. Environmental toxicity

6. Processed foods

7. Food poisoning

What are some of the most common bacteria/fungi that form biofilms:

E. coli

• Urinary tract infections

Haemophilus influenzae

• Otolaryngologic disease

• (e.g., otitis media)

Staphylococcus aureus

• Catheter infections

• Endocarditis

• Infected joint prostheses

& heart valves

Pseudomonas aeruginosa

• Pneumonia

• Cystic fibrosis

Streptococcus mutans

• Dental plaque

Klebsiella pneumoniae

• Pneumonia

• Urinary tract infections

• GI dysbiosis

• Rheumatoid arthritis

Candida albicans

• Mucosal Linings (G.I., mouth, genitals)

• Skin Disorders

• Brain Fog

Make sure your functional medical doctor and functional program addresses these biofilms for long lasting results. If you struggle with IBS, bloating, or chronic digestive issues, schedule a consultation to uncover the root cause of your symptoms with our functional medicine clinic. You can call our office at 614-839-1044 to schedule your consultation or just ask some additional FM questions.