The microbiome consists of up to 1000 different species of bacteria that reside primarily in our gastrointestinal tract but also populate other mucosal membranes such as the oral cavity, vagina and urethra. Lifestyle, stress, certain medications and dietary factors can upset the delicate balance between beneficial and harmful strains of bacteria and reduce microbial diversity. Imbalanced gut bacteria is often associated with a compromised gut lining and digestive complaints such as bloating, discomfort, cramps and irregular bowel movements; general symptoms including fatigue, poor cognition and low mood can also be symptomatic of gut dysbiosis.