Dark Matter: The New Science of the Microbiome

From a world-leading microbiome scientist and surgeon comes Dark Matter, a pioneering guide to hacking your microbiome for a healthier life.

Our microbiome – the complex ecosystem of bacteria, viruses and other microbes inside us – is vital for our health and wellbeing. An invisible powerhouse whose potential we’re only just beginning to understand, it influences our mood and appetite, determines how fast we run and even who we choose as a partner.

In this ground-breaking book, microbiome expert Dr James Kinross takes us on a guided tour of our extraordinary inner universe and highlights the damage we inflict when we don’t protect it. Showing through cutting-edge research and years of clinical experience, the practical steps we can all take to optimise the microbiome to live better, healthier lives.

Now with a new, eye-opening afterword on the rise of home microbiome tests, IBS and FMTs.

Review

Important and devastating ― The Times

This book is really, really interesting ... Nothing more important in your life than your microbiome ... this will change your life ― Chris Evans

I've long been interested in the microbiome, and have been eagerly awaiting a book that might uncover some of its mysteries. This is that book ― Heston Blumenthal

A totally addictive and illuminating read. Compelling from beginning to end ― Dr Saliha Mahmood Ahmed, gastroenterologist and bestselling author of The Kitchen Prescription

A fountain of knowledge and sense in an overwhelming world of science ― Rhiannon Lambert, Registered Nutritionist and Sunday Times Bestselling Author

Engaging ... [Dark Matter] stands out in revealing the microbiome through the eyes of a clinician who sees each patient not just as a human, but as a human entwined with a complex, dynamic ecosystem ― New Scientist

A spellbinding explanation of microbiology that will help you get to the bottom of health and happiness ― John Vincent, Co-Founder of Leon

About the Author

Dr James Kinross is a senior lecturer in colorectal surgery and consultant surgeon at Imperial College London and a visiting professor at the Royal College of Surgeons of Ireland. He leads a research team defining how the microbiome causes cancer and other chronic diseases of the gut. Dark Matter is his first book.