In short, yes, hugging does impact your microbiome. As we often discuss, microbial diversity is paramount to optimal gut health, and being close to your friends, family, and community can help shift your gut flora towards that diversity.

"It is important to get out and interact with many people. With repeated exposure to many different microbial fingerprints, shifts in the balance of your gut may start to take place and diversity gently increases overtime."

Personal interaction such as hugging or touching can help inoculate you with the other's microbial imprint. So soak up all the hugs this holiday season. Your microbiome will thank you!

Protect Your Gut - Brain Connection