THE GUT MICROBIOTA IN HEALTH AND DISEASE AN ACCESSIBLE OVERVIEW OF THE VARIED MICROORGANISMS OF THE GUT The human gut contains an extraordinary array of microorganisms existing in intricate symbiosis with the body. The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in maintaining overall gut health and warding off disease. With up to 15% of the global population suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) caused by improper composition of gut microbiota, understanding these organisms and their vital contribution to human health has never been more important. _The Gut Microbiota in Health and Disease_ provides a concise, accessible introduction to gut microbiota and their contribution to human health. It offers not only an overview of the relevant microorganisms and their roles in the body, but also extended discussion of diseases caused by gut dysbiosis. It presents a crucial window into this growing body of research into a critical area of overall human health. _The Gut Microbiota in Health and Disease_, readers will also find: * Detailed analysis of dysbiotic health conditions including obesity, diabetes, and more * Thorough treatment of molecular techniques for the analysis gut microbial composition * Discussion of the lowering diversity of bacteria in the gut and the corresponding impact on global health _The Gut Microbiota in Health and Disease_ is essential for researchers and clinicians working in immunology, gastroenterology, clinical microbiology, and related fields, as well as for clinical dieticians and postgraduate or medical students studying in these areas.