#375 How Microbes and Bacteria Make You Age Faster - Michael Lustgarten PhD
Sep 7, 2023
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Discover how microbes and bacteria can accelerate aging, from leaky gut to oral microbiome's impact on Alzheimer's, skin health, and more. Learn about foods that cause leaky gut, benefits of fermented foods, and the importance of oral hygiene. Explore the role of probiotics, fermented foods, and dietary variations in optimizing gut health for overall well-being.
Microbial burden of aging affects gut barrier function and can lead to age-related diseases like Alzheimer's.
Consuming soluble fiber can acidify the colon, enhance gut barrier function, and protect against the negative effects of aging.
Optimizing the oral microbiome through diet and practices like tongue cleaning can reduce the risk of oral microbes contributing to age-related diseases.
Deep dives
Impact of Microbes on Aging
The accumulation of microbes and microbial products in places they shouldn't be is known as the microbial burden of aging. This burden can affect various aspects of health, such as gut barrier function, muscle mass and function, and even contribute to age-related diseases like Alzheimer's. The gut microbiome plays a significant role in influencing overall health, including muscle mass and function. It can also impact other systems in the body, such as the brain and kidneys. Additionally, the skin and oral microbiomes also undergo changes with age. These microbial imbalances can have far-reaching effects on systemic health and contribute to the aging process.
Gut Barrier Function and Aging
As we age, the gut barrier function can worsen, allowing microbial products to leak into the bloodstream, leading to immune activation, which can negatively impact overall health. Translocation of microbes and microbial products from the gut to other parts of the body can contribute to inflammation, chronic diseases, and age-related conditions. Acidifying the colon by consuming high levels of soluble fiber, like that found in vegetables, can help improve gut barrier function and prevent the translocation of harmful microbes. There is evidence that short-chain fatty acids produced during the breakdown of dietary fiber can enhance gut barrier function and protect against the negative effects of aging.
Oral Microbiome and Age-Related Diseases
The oral microbiome can play a role in age-related diseases like Alzheimer's. Studies have shown an increased prevalence of bacteria, fungi, and viruses in the brains of Alzheimer's patients compared to healthy controls. The oral microbiome is a potential source of these microorganisms, particularly those like Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis). While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, there is evidence suggesting a link between oral microbes and the development of Alzheimer's. Tracking and managing the oral microbiome, through practices like tongue cleaning and using mouthwashes containing antimicrobial agents, may offer potential strategies to reduce the risk of oral microbes contributing to age-related diseases.
Impaired gut barrier and immune compensation
The Western diet, characterized by high fat, high sugar, and low fiber, can lead to bacterial dysbiosis and negatively impact muscle health. The diet reduces short chain fatty acid producing bacteria in the gut, increases harmful bacteria like E.coli, and impairs immune function. Fat cells can potentially compensate for weakened immune systems and reduced gut barrier function in some individuals. However, staying lean and maintaining a healthy immune system is ideal.
The oral microbiome and skin health
The oral microbiome and its optimization are often overlooked, but it plays a significant role in overall health. Nitrates found in vegetable-based foods can act as prebiotics, favoring the growth of beneficial bacteria and reducing pathogenic ones. Optimizing the oral microbiome through diet and avoiding antiseptic mouthwashes can support skin health and improve blood pressure. However, the field of skincare products optimizing the skin microbiome is still emerging, and more research is needed in this area.
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