Valerie Daude

Department: Social Design
Website: www.valeriedaude.com

Microbial Self

What: A mask with an integrated breath test that measures, analyses and visualises our physical and mental health with every breath.

Why: Each human body hosts trillions of microorganisms. Their composition and diversity influence our health, balance our immune system, protect us against disease, and influence our behaviour and mood. Understanding how these organisms interact with their human host could explain different aspects of many complex diseases and help to achieve better physical and mental well-being.


How: Valerie Daude developed a mask that creates a dialogue between host and microbes. The integrated breath test measures the diversity of our gut microbes. The result is displayed on the mask through a colour code called the Microbiome Diversity Index.

"Our healthcare system is designed to fight symptoms instead of preventing disease"