The fight to maintain a healthy metabolism is a tough one. From food accessibility issues to a lack of proper education surrounding nutrition, the battle seems ruthless. However, many notice that even regular exercise and a consistently healthy diet no longer work to keep weight off, and resort to investigating other factors such as hormones and gut health. Fortunately, research surrounding the impact of our microbiome on our metabolism is increasing.
Can probiotics impact metabolism?
Probiotics significantly impact metabolism by influencing the composition and function of the gut microbiota. These beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species, help maintain gut barrier integrity, reduce inflammation, and modulate the production of gut hormones involved in appetite and glucose regulation. By enhancing the diversity of gut microbes and promoting the growth of beneficial strains like Akkermansia muciniphila, probiotics can improve metabolic outcomes such as insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism, and lipid profiles. Additionally, probiotics may contribute to weight management by influencing energy extraction from food and reducing fat storage. Their role in promoting a healthy gut environment underscores their potential as a supportive therapy in managing metabolic disorders and maintaining overall metabolic health.
The importance of Akkermansia muciniphila
Akkermansia muciniphila, a gut bacterium increasingly studied for its metabolic benefits, plays a crucial role in human health. Research suggests that Akkermansia helps regulate metabolism by promoting gut barrier function and reducing inflammation. By enhancing the integrity of the intestinal lining, it prevents harmful substances from leaking into the bloodstream, thereby mitigating metabolic endotoxemia—a condition linked to insulin resistance and obesity. Moreover, Akkermansia is associated with improved glucose metabolism, potentially aiding in the management of diabetes.
Its ability to increase levels of gut hormones like glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) may further contribute to its positive metabolic effects by enhancing insulin sensitivity and promoting satiety.
The research suggests that individuals with an abundance of this strain typically have a leaner body composition, suggesting a correlative relationship between Akkermansia and weight loss. Thus, fostering a healthy population of Akkermansia through diet or probiotic supplementation could offer promising therapeutic strategies for metabolic disorders and overall metabolic health.
Recommended Probiotic Strains
Interestingly, multiple studies showed that Western high-fat diet in as short as 4 weeks significantly reduced the abundance of A. muciniphila, so we must always remember that we cannot supplement our way out of a poor diet.
However, recent studies have explored the intriguing correlation between the production of Akkermansia muciniphila and the consumption of probiotic Bifidobacterium animalis subsp lactis 420 (B420).
B420 has shown significant potential in fostering a favorable gut environment by increasing the abundance of Akkermansia muciniphila. This symbiotic relationship is particularly beneficial for gut health, as Akkermansia muciniphila is known for its role in maintaining mucosal integrity and reducing inflammation. By promoting the growth of Akkermansia muciniphila, B420 helps to strengthen the gut barrier function and enhance metabolic health. The combined effects of these two probiotics may synergistically improve metabolic parameters, including glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, making them promising candidates for therapeutic interventions aimed at managing metabolic disorders and promoting overall health. Further research into their combined effects could elucidate deeper insights into their potential synergistic benefits and mechanisms of action in the gut microbiome.
Other Benefits
Although weight loss may be the primary reason for consuming this probiotic, increasing Akkermansia muciniphila in adults can also improve:
Improved Gut Barrier Function: Akkermansia muciniphila helps maintain the integrity of the gut lining, which can prevent the leakage of harmful substances into the bloodstream.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Akkermansia muciniphila has been shown to reduce systemic inflammation, which is linked to various chronic diseases.
Potential Role in Immune Regulation: There is emerging evidence suggesting that Akkermansia muciniphila may modulate immune responses and contribute to overall immune system balance.
Enhanced Gut Health: By residing in the mucosal layer of the intestines and promoting mucin degradation, Akkermansia muciniphila supports a healthy gut environment.
Promotion of Gut Hormone Production: It may increase the production of gut hormones like glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), which can improve insulin sensitivity and promote satiety.
How To Take It
There are many supplements available that contain both Akkermansia muciniphila and B420. You can take them orally with food. Experts recommend pairing these supplements with proper nutrition and exercise for optimal results.
However, while losing weight often starts by healing your gut and taking probiotic strain B420 is a great starting point, many other factors mustn’t be overlooked. Beginning with a full series of blood work to rule out other metabolic factors is a must.
Naturopathic Care can help you investigate all factors impacting your metabolism, and get to the root cause of why weight loss may be challenging. To learn more about natural support for your metabolism, or preventative strategies to optimize your gut health, contact Dr. Courtney Holmberg, Toronto Naturopathic Doctor at (647) 351-7282, or visit us online here.
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