How Gut Health Leads to Good Health

A healthy microbiome is directly linked to a healthy body, studies now show. This affect is thought to be lifelong. Alterations to the gut microbiota may start at the earliest stages of life; disruption of the developing microbiota in infancy can contribute to the risk of immune and metabolic disease as an adult. At the other end of the age spectrum, in a large study of the elderly, reduction of microbial diversity is associated with a shift toward a monotonous diet; this in turn leads to increased markers of inflammation and frailty.

The human gastrointestinal microbiome is considered to be a "microbial organ" within the gastrointestinal tract. It can have as many as 1,000 species of anaerobic bacteria and its collective genomes are estimated to contain 100 times more genes than our own human genome. The microbes in our gut affect metabolism, local mucosal homeostasis, inflammation, and immunity. Supporting a healthy microbiome is an important cornerstone for immune health and response to infections, as well as overall resilience.

The good news is that the intestinal microbiome may be modified by long-term dietary interventions.

Throughout life, a range of healthy lifestyle factors, including a diversified diet, limited use of processed foods, avoidance of prolonged restricted diets, and consumption of adequate dietary fiber, all promote a healthy microbiome. Research suggests that gut microbiota alterations due to unhealthy lifestyle factors and inadequate nutrition may contribute to a broad spectrum of diseases such as obesity, diabetes mellitus, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, colorectal cancer, cardiovascular disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.

The good news is that the intestinal microbiome may be modified by long-term dietary interventions, according to a 2015 study of patients with obesity. Although the exact mechanisms of action are not yet fully understood, a variety of recent hypotheses have been explored in the medical literature to explain the potential benefits of the Mediterranean diet on the gut microbiota. A 2020 study of 612 elderly people suggests that adherence to a Mediterranean diet leads to lower levels of frailty and better cognitive function. This was mainly due to the ingestion of fiber, certain vitamins (C, B6, B9), and various minerals.

Taking steps at any stage of life to restore a healthy, diverse microbiome through lifestyle factors like diet is possible. Functional medicine interventions can address gastrointestinal imbalances and improve overall wellness.