**Santa Fe Soil: Adobe Dust Crashing Gut Biome?**

By Franklin Everett Shaw

February 23, 2026

Have you noticed more friends in Santa Fe complaining about bloating, gas, and general digestive discomfort lately? It’s not just the green chile. There’s a growing murmur about increased cases of SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) in our high-desert community. Could something unique to Santa Fe be contributing to this gut health crisis? I believe the answer lies, at least partially, in the very ground beneath our feet: adobe dust.

Adobe, the traditional building material of Santa Fe, is beautiful and iconic. But its constant erosion releases fine dust particles into the air, which we inevitably inhale and ingest. This dust isn’t just inert dirt; it’s a complex mixture of minerals and potentially, a breeding ground for specific microbes that could be wreaking havoc on our gut biomes.

The mineral composition of adobe in the Santa Fe area is unique. It’s rich in silica, calcium carbonate, and various trace elements depending on the specific source of the clay. While some of these minerals are harmless, others, particularly in high concentrations, could disrupt the delicate balance of our gut flora. For example, excessive silica intake has been linked to inflammation in some studies.

Furthermore, adobe dust can harbor microorganisms. Damp adobe walls can become breeding grounds for molds and bacteria. When the adobe dries and crumbles, these organisms become airborne. While not all of these microbes are harmful, some could contribute to dysbiosis – an imbalance in the gut microbiome – potentially triggering SIBO or IBS symptoms.

Think of your gut as a carefully cultivated garden. The “good” bacteria help you digest food, absorb nutrients, and even regulate your immune system. When foreign invaders, like those potentially found in adobe dust, enter the garden, they can disrupt the ecosystem, allowing “bad” bacteria to flourish and causing digestive problems.

So, what can Santa Fe residents do to protect their gut health from the potential impact of adobe dust? Here’s a practical, three-pronged approach:

1. Minimize Adobe Dust Exposure: This is about proactive prevention.

• Air Filtration is Key: Invest in a high-quality air purifier with a HEPA filter, especially for your bedroom and living areas. Look for models specifically designed to capture fine dust particles. I recommend the Blueair HealthProtect 7470i, though it’s an investment, it’s worth it for long-term health.
• Regular Cleaning is Essential: Dust your home frequently with a damp cloth to avoid stirring up dust particles. Vacuum with a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner. Consider professional cleaning services, especially if you have extensive adobe features in your home.
• Seal Cracks and Gaps: Inspect your adobe walls for cracks and gaps and seal them properly to prevent dust from entering your home. Use a flexible sealant specifically designed for adobe.
• Landscaping Matters: Plant vegetation around your home to act as a natural barrier against dust. Native plants like chamisa and Apache plume are excellent choices.
• Mask Up When Necessary: When engaging in activities that generate dust, such as gardening or construction, wear a NIOSH-approved N95 respirator mask.

2. Support Gut Health Through Diet and Targeted Supplementation: This is about strengthening your internal defenses.

• Embrace a Gut-Friendly Diet: Focus on whole, unprocessed foods, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, and fiber. Limit processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats, which can feed harmful bacteria in the gut.
• Consider the Low-FODMAP Diet: If you suspect SIBO or IBS, the low-FODMAP diet can help reduce symptoms by limiting fermentable carbohydrates that feed bacteria in the small intestine. Consult with a registered dietitian to implement this diet safely and effectively.
• Probiotics are Your Allies: Supplement with a high-quality probiotic containing a diverse range of beneficial bacteria strains. Look for probiotics that contain Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species. I recommend seeking out spore-based probiotics, as they are more resilient to stomach acid.
• Prebiotics Feed the Good Guys: Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that feed beneficial bacteria in the gut. Good sources of prebiotics include garlic, onions, asparagus, and bananas. You can also supplement with prebiotic powders like inulin or acacia fiber.
• Consider Digestive Enzymes: Digestive enzymes can help break down food more efficiently, reducing the burden on your digestive system and preventing undigested food from feeding bacteria in the small intestine.
• Butyrate for Gut Lining Support: Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid that nourishes the cells lining the colon. It can help improve gut barrier function and reduce inflammation. You can supplement with butyrate or increase your intake of butyrate-producing foods like resistant starch.

3. Find Local Healthcare Practitioners Specializing in Gut Microbiome Restoration: This is about seeking expert guidance.

• Functional Medicine Doctors: Functional medicine doctors take a holistic approach to health, focusing on identifying and addressing the root causes of illness. They are often well-versed in gut health and can help you develop a personalized treatment plan. In Santa Fe, Dr. Mark Hyman’s UltraWellness Center is a great resource, though potentially expensive.
• Naturopathic Doctors: Naturopathic doctors use natural therapies to support the body’s healing process. They can provide guidance on diet, supplementation, and lifestyle changes to improve gut health.
• Registered Dietitians: Registered dietitians can help you develop a personalized meal plan that supports gut health and addresses any specific dietary needs or restrictions. Look for dietitians specializing in SIBO or IBS.
• Gastroenterologists: While conventional gastroenterologists may not always focus on the microbiome, some are becoming more aware of its importance in digestive health. Seek out a gastroenterologist who is open to exploring alternative therapies and testing options.
• Consider a Comprehensive Stool Test: A comprehensive stool test can provide valuable information about the composition of your gut microbiome, including the presence of harmful bacteria, yeast, or parasites. This information can help guide your treatment plan. Doctor’s Data and Genova Diagnostics are reputable labs.

The challenges in addressing this potential adobe dust-gut health connection are multifaceted. Firstly, there’s a lack of specific research on the impact of Santa Fe adobe dust on the gut microbiome. More studies are needed to confirm the link and identify the specific microbes and minerals involved. Secondly, gut health is complex and influenced by many factors, including genetics, diet, lifestyle, and stress. It’s difficult to isolate the impact of adobe dust alone.

A common pitfall is self-treating without proper diagnosis. SIBO and IBS can have overlapping symptoms, and it’s important to get an accurate diagnosis before starting any treatment plan. Another mistake is relying solely on supplements without addressing underlying dietary and lifestyle factors. Supplements are helpful, but they are not a substitute for a healthy diet and lifestyle.

The rise in SIBO and IBS cases in Santa Fe may be a complex issue with multiple contributing factors. However, the potential impact of airborne adobe dust on the gut microbiome should not be overlooked. By taking proactive steps to minimize exposure, support gut health through diet and supplementation, and seek expert guidance, Santa Fe residents can protect their digestive health and thrive in our unique high-desert environment. It’s time we address this dusty elephant in the room and prioritize the well-being of our guts.