The gut microbiome: a key component of digestive health and overall wellbeing

What is gut health?

The gut refers to the larger digestive system that functions to break down, digest, and assimilate nutrients while also eliminating harmful wastes. The digestive system consists of the necessary digestive organs along with the gut microbiome - a community of bacteria and yeasts and their components that can impact digestive and metabolic functions.² Gut health refers to both organ function and the balance of the microbiome within your digestive system.⁴

When this intricate system is out of balance, it may lead to symptoms such as excessive gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, digestive pain, or cramping.

What body systems are impacted by gut health?

The health of the gut can impact overall health in many ways. A healthy gut can support healthy digestion, absorption and assimilation of nutrients – key functions for human health.² But the gut also has far-reaching effects on other body systems:

• Immune function: there is constant communication between the gut and the immune system to influence immune defence mechanisms. Maintaining a healthy gut can directly help to ensure a strong immune system.⁴
• Brain health: the gut-brain axis is a two-way communication system within the body through a network of nerves and chemicals. When gut health is impaired, this communication may be impacted, resulting in symptoms such as brain fog, headaches, poor concentration, memory issues, fatigue, sleep problems, stress and anxiety.²
• Cardiovascular health: recent advances have helped to increase our understanding of the relationship between gut health and factors of CVD. Specifically, increased evidence has shown changes in the specific bacteria and microbial-dependent metabolite imbalances can play a role in the development of CVD.^1,5
• Skin health: research has also shown that the health of our skin – the largest organ of the body – is connected to the health of our gut microbiome. Impaired gut health can lead to skin disorders such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, rosacea, etc.³

What practices benefit gut health?

There are important practices that can impact gut health,^{4, 6} including:

• A nutritious diet: a diet rich in prebiotic fibres, which can be obtained from fruits, vegetables, and grains, as well as certain supplements
• Hydration & exercise: daily physical exercise and movement and adequate hydration
• Stress management: managing stress levels can positively impact gut function

Conversely, poor dietary choices, excessive alcohol consumption, and long-term use of certain medications, can negatively affect gut health.^{4, 6}

How can producers support consumer gut health?

Consumers understand the importance of dietary fibre for gut health, but often struggle to incorporate sufficient amounts in their diet. Natural fibre ingredients such as Arrabina-P™ and  OatWell™ can help fill the gap:

• Arrabina-P™: derived from upcycled wheat, Arrabina-P™ promotes microbial diversity and is low FODMAP
• OatWell™: backed by extensive clinical research, OatWell™ is rich in beta-glucans, which supports gut and heart health.

Both ingredients are sustainably sourced, contributing to healthier diets and a lower environmental impact.

Caring for gut health is vital for overall well-being. Ensuring a healthful diet, minimizing stress, maintaining hydration can all play a role in supporting a healthy gut.  By incorporating ingredients like Arrabina-P™ and OatWell™ into functional foods, manufacturers can help consumers achieve their health goals while enjoying delicious food experiences. As science advances, understanding the gut microbiome's role in health continues to grow, paving the way for innovative solutions.