Dysbiosis can result from numerous factors, such as antibiotic use, dietary changes, infections, and environmental exposures. In toxicology, chemical exposure is a critical factor. Many chemicals, including pesticides, heavy metals, and food additives, can disrupt the delicate balance of the gut microbiota, leading to dysbiosis. For instance, exposure to antibiotics not only targets pathogenic bacteria but can also harm beneficial gut flora, allowing opportunistic pathogens to flourish.
