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Understanding your gut microbiome can lead to better overall health. BY A . MICHAEL LUSTBERG , M .D.
THOUSANDS OF YEARS AGO, ancient cultures took advantage of the process of fermentation to preserve food and enhance taste. In the 1800s, Dr. Louis Pasteur’s research showed that the growth of microorganisms was responsible for spoiling beverages such as milk. From this observation, he developed pasteurization, the process of gently heating certain foods and beverages to destroy harmful bacteria. In the early 1900s, Bulgarian physician Dr. Stamen Grigorov noted that the consumption of fermented foods, such as yogurt, seemed to be associated with longevity; his work led to the discovery of the bacteria Lactobacillus. But it wasn’t until the early 2000s that science truly turned its attention to the human gut microbiome. “Microbiome” refers to the numerous microorganisms (including bacteria and fungi) that populate the small intestine and colon,
known together as the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) or gut. The typical adult small intestine, nearly 1 feet in length, contains finger-like projections called villi, which increase surface area and help absorb nutrients. This is also where fermentation occurs, which results in gas and bloating. The colon, which is typically three to four feet long, absorbs the remaining water, calcium and potassium from the small intestine. The gut microbiome can promote a healthy intestinal lining and can affect food digestion, drug metabolism and immunologic processes (such as expelling germs and battling disease).
BALANCE IS KEY
Intestinal dysbiosis — a persistent imbalance of the gut’s normal ora or bacteria is likely responsible at least in part for insulin resistance which, in turn, results in elevated
blood sugar levels. This is mediated by a gut hormone called glucagon-like peptide (GLP1). GLP is released in response to food intake and helps regulate appetite, especially after eating. It also helps enhance the production of insulin. When the gut bacteria are out of balance, the production of GLP may be reduced. ytokines, which are pro-in ammatory substances secreted by white blood cells, are also secreted in higher amounts when the gut is out of balance. These changes can lead to a whole host of health issues, including weight gain (particularly around the waist), elevated blood sugar levels and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels. Heart disease, stroke, diabetes and fatty liver can result. Increased in ammation can also lead to autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
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