Final answer:
The human body hosts more microbes than human cells, with recent studies suggesting a ratio closer to 1:1. These microbes, especially bacteria, are critical to our health and are found in abundance on the skin, in the gut, and other parts of the body.
Step-by-step explanation:
Yes, you indeed have more microbes in and around your body than eukaryotic cells. Studies have shown that prokaryotes, like bacteria, are incredibly abundant on and within us. Initially, it was thought that bacteria outnumbered human cells by a ratio of 10:1. More recent research suggests the ratio may be closer to 1:1. Despite this update, it's clear that an enormous number of bacterial cells coexist with human cells. These bacteria are particularly abundant in the mouth, gastrointestinal tract, and skin.
The human gut alone is estimated to harbor around 100 trillion bacteria, outnumbering human cells and highlighting the significance of the gut's microbiome. This microbiome is so integral to our physiology that it's often referred to as a 'forgotten organ' due to its size and complexity, similar to that of the liver. While some bacteria can be pathogenic, the majority of them play a beneficial role in human health. They help with the production of vitamin K and are involved in various symbiotic relationships, supporting digestion and other body functions. Thus, our bodies are indeed walking ecosystems with a high microbial population that is vital to our well-being.