Our microbiome – the complex ecosystem of bacteria, viruses and other microbes inside us – is critically important to our health and wellbeing. It is given to us by our mothers at birth, adapts with us as we age, influences our mood and appetites, determines how fast we run and even affects who we choose as a partner.

In this ground-breaking book, expert on the microbiome James Kinross, takes us on a guided tour of our extraordinary inner universe, showing how our relationship with microbes may hold the key to why we are increasingly succumbing to diseases such as Alzheimer’s, cancer and autoimmune conditions. He highlights the disastrous consequences of our war on germs, the effects of globalisation and our addiction to antibiotics, showing how it is only now, as we are beginning to discover the microbiome’s enormous potential, that we are realising it is in grave danger.

Drawing on cutting-edge research and years of clinical experience, Kinross shows us how to protect this vital inner world before it’s too late – providing practical tips on how to optimise the microbiome to protect your health, boost your immunity and safeguard your mental wellbeing. His illuminating, urgent book shows that if we work with, not against our microbes, we can live better, healthier lives.