From human to superhuman: the impact of the microbiome on physiology

The complex microbial community residing in the human gut has long been understood to regulate gastrointestinal physiology and to participate in digestive diseases, but its extraintestinal actions and influences are increasingly recognized. This article discusses bidirectional interactions between the gut microbiome and athletic performance, metabolism, longevity and the ability of the gut–brain axis to influence cognitive function and mental health. (Figure presented.).