Unlocking the secrets of your gut: why your microbiome matters
The gut microbiome has become a buzzword in health circles, and for good reason. To get the scoop on what’s happening in our guts and why it matters, we chatted with Dr. Jared Sninsky, a Baylor Medicine gastroenterologist and assistant professor of medicine. Here’s what we learned about gut health, its connection to diseases like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and how we can all support a healthier gut.
What exactly is the gut microbiome?
Think of your gut microbiome as a bustling community of bacteria, fungi and viruses living in your digestive tract. This ecosystem plays a huge role in our health, but it’s complicated. Sninsky broke it down: “The microbiome includes billions of bacteria, but also fungi and viruses. It’s a very complex entity that can be a little bit slippery to get your mind around.” Because it’s so diverse, nailing down how it works and changes over time is a real challenge.
The gut microbiome and IBD
Scientists are interested in how the gut microbiome relates to IBD. Could changes in the microbiome cause IBD, or is it the other way around? “There have been a handful of studies on microbiome stool fecal transplant for IBD, but results have been pretty inconclusive so far,” Sninsky said. Despite these challenges, there’s hope that new treatments targeting the microbiome could be only a few years away.
Gut health and your immune system
A healthy gut microbiome often means a stronger immune system. However, this relationship is a bit of a puzzle, according to Sninsky: “We know a more diverse microbiome is probably associated with what we call a healthier microbiome.” Yet, figuring out what makes a microbiome healthy is still tricky. It’s like asking which came first, the chicken or the egg: does a healthy microbiome lead to better health, or does good health lead to a more diverse microbiome?
Lifestyle choices for a healthier gut
Taking care of your gut involves more than just thinking about bacteria. “What’s good for your heart is good for your gut and your mental health,” Sninsky emphasized. Here are some lifestyle tips to keep your gut in top shape:
- Diet: The Mediterranean diet is a winner for gut health. It’s rich in plant-based foods and lean meats and low in processed foods. Sninsky suggests, “Shop around the edges of the grocery store, focusing on whole foods and avoiding processed red meat and salted foods.”
- Fiber Intake: Eating a variety of fibers can help your gut bacteria thrive. Prebiotics, which feed the good bacteria in your gut, are particularly effective.
- Exercise: While there aren’t many direct studies on exercise and the microbiome, we know that physical activity benefits overall health, including gut health.
The scoop on supplements
With gut health in the spotlight, many people turn to supplements such as greens and powders. However, their effectiveness is still up for debate. “I get a little bit reticent recommending certain supplements to patients when they aren’t FDA approved,” Sninsky warned. Instead of relying on supplements, he suggested a focus on a balanced diet.
Know what’s normal and when to seek help
Understanding what’s normal for your gut and knowing when to seek medical advice is vital. “There is a wide spectrum of what can be considered normal stool.” However, there are certain red flags, such as dark, tarry stools or rectal bleeding, that should prompt a medical evaluation.
If you have a family history of colon cancer or symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, sweats or persistent diarrhea, it’s important to get a comprehensive medical checkup. Screening for colon cancer is recommended starting at age 45, but earlier if you have a family history or symptoms.
The bottom line
As we continue to learn more about the gut microbiome, one thing is clear: maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for gut health. By focusing on a balanced diet, regular exercise and staying informed about your health, you can support a robust microbiome and overall well-being. Sninsky summed it up perfectly: “Usually, what’s healthy for the body as a whole is healthy for the microbiome, the brain and other organs.”
Promoting gut health isn’t just about jumping on the latest trend. It’s about understanding and supporting the intricate ecosystem inside us. As science advances, our ability to harness the power of the microbiome for better health will only improve.
Learn more about Baylor Medicine Gastroenterology and Digestive Health.
By Cole Helmcamp, intern in the Margaret M. and Albert B. Alkek Department of Medicine
Very good article.