Figure 2.

Key factors influencing the composition and diversity of the gut microbiome. Many factors can influence the gut microbiota composition and diversity beginning with the birthing process and first feeding methods. Other factors such as diet, psychological and physiological stress, pharmaceutical exposure, geographic residence and traveling and exposures, are among several factors which influence the microbiome throughout the lifecycle. Reprinted with permission, Cleveland Clinic Center for Medical Art & Photography ©2015. All Rights Reserved.¹⁶³