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The Superhero of Gut Bacteria
Today we're going to be talking about a gut bacteria that is kind of the Kim Kardashian or maybe the superwoman of your gut bacteria. And the reason why I'm talking about the specific gut bacteria is because I've been noticing in some of the testing that it's been low in several of my patients.
We're also going to talk about another issue that I've noticed on the test. Now remember, there's over 80 markers. We're only talking about two markers today. But one is called steatocrit. And I've been noticing that being too high on a lot of the reports.
But the good news is There are supplements, probiotics, that can help with these issues. So, we are getting to the root cause of the problem.
Again, I say test, don't guess, to determine exactly what food, drinks and supplements you should or should not be consuming. And remember, not only am I a practitioner, I was also a patient. Schedule your free call with me today.
After years and years of struggling and suffering with my own GI issues. calling in sick to work, canceling social events, just not feeling good, being wired and tired. I finally, after my fourth GI surgery, decided that conventional medicine was not going to do what I needed. So not only did I reach into my pocketbook.
But I also reached out to a functional nutritionist who basically saved my life.
Natural Regulators of GLP-1 Uptake
When it comes to regulating GLP-1 uptake naturally, gut health plays a critical role. One of the "superheroes" in this realm is our gut bacteria. Today, we will delve into two key markers: fecal steatocrit and gut microbiota composition, both of which are revealed through comprehensive stool testing. While these are just two of over 80 markers we evaluate, they are especially worth our attention due to their profound impact on health.
Imagine resolving your gastrointestinal (GI) distress—no more rushing to the bathroom, bloating, constipation, or gas. Such improvements could drastically enhance your quality of life. GI health also influences conditions like reflux, GERD, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), and even weight loss resistance. Your gut’s health significantly determines your ability to lose weight. If your doctor’s advice is limited to "eat less, exercise more," it’s time for a more modern approach.
Many medical professionals lack training in nutrition, the microbiome, and food sensitivities. This is where functional medicine steps in. Through advanced lab testing, I help patients resolve root causes of digestive issues and address weight loss resistance, joint pain, skin issues, and more. Using telemedicine, we design personalized therapeutic plans based on your test results, moving beyond guesswork to precision care.
Faecalibacterium Prausnitzii: The Gut’s Superhero
A standout among gut bacteria is Faecalibacterium prausnitzii (FP), a key player in gut health. This bacterium supports weight management, reduces GI distress, and produces butyrate, a crucial short-chain fatty acid. Butyrate provides energy to colon cells, reduces inflammation, and helps maintain the intestinal barrier, preventing leaky gut syndrome.
Low levels of FP have been linked to conditions like IBS, IBD, chronic constipation, and even mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. FP-derived butyrate influences the gut-brain axis by reducing neuroinflammation and promoting neuroplasticity, highlighting the connection between gut health and mental well-being.
Improving FP Levels and Gut Health
To boost FP levels, I recommend targeted probiotics and functional foods. One effective option includes products containing concentrated functional foods like New Zealand gold kiwifruit. Such precision-based interventions can enhance immunity, reduce oxidative stress, and support overall GI health. For those with low FP, personalized supplements are often part of the first or second steps in a structured treatment plan.
Understanding Malabsorption Syndrome
Malabsorption syndrome, often revealed through elevated fecal steatocrit levels, hinders nutrient absorption and can lead to deficiencies in fat-soluble vitamins. Symptoms often include bloating, gas, and low energy. Diagnosing and managing these conditions requires assessing factors like enzyme levels and bile acid production. Functional testing identifies deficiencies and guides the use of targeted supplements to address specific needs, avoiding expensive, generic enzyme treatments.
The Role of Enzymes and Nutraceuticals
Digestive enzymes play a vital role in breaking down fats into absorbable molecules. Functional testing helps pinpoint which enzymes may be deficient, enabling personalized supplementation. This approach avoids the
high costs associated with conventional enzyme treatments, providing a tailored and cost-effective solution.
The Path to Healing: A Stepwise Approach
Healing the gut is a marathon, not a sprint. Initial steps often involve eliminating harmful overgrowths like Candida or SIBO, followed by replenishing the gut with specific prebiotics and probiotics tailored to your unique microbiome. Generic over-the-counter probiotics may not address your specific needs, underscoring the importance of individualized care.
The Victory Against Red Dye No. 3
Today, I also want to mention the FDA’s recent decision to ban red dye No. 3 from food and dietary supplements is a step forward for consumer health. This dye, linked to cancer in animals, has been used in a wide range of products, from candies to medicines. Its removal is a win for public health, reducing unnecessary exposure to harmful chemicals.
Advocating for Your Health
Healthcare should be proactive, not reactive. If conventional medicine isn’t meeting your expectations, it’s time to take charge. At Harmony with Food, we aim to empower patients with the knowledge and tools to optimize their health through functional medicine. Schedule a free consultation to begin your journey to better health today.
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