UK scientists tested more than 1,000 chemicals on gut bacteria samples in a lab, and identified 168 that appear harmful.

Dozens of common chemicals are toxic to gut bacteria and may be harmful for human health, a new analysis suggests.

It also contributes significantly to disability, early retirement, and absenteeism, which lowers quality of life and reduces life expectancy.

In laboratory tests, researchers in the United Kingdom identified 168 chemicals that prevent healthy gut bacteria from growing, potentially throwing the gut microbiome out of balance.

The gut microbiome is made up of thousands of types of bacteria and other tiny organisms that live in our digestive tracts – and it has been linked to a wide range of health issues, such as cancer, insomnia, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and preterm birth.