The Gut bacteria Akkermansia - how does it impact your health

Akkermansia, a genus of bacteria, particularly Akkermansia muciniphila. This gut microbe has gained a lot of attention in recent years due to its potential health benefits.

When we conduct a complete microbiome test we can see whether this bacteria is low, normal or even high within the gut to assess your overall gut health.

First discovered in 2004, this microbe is naturally found in the human intestines and plays a key role in maintaining gut barrier function, metabolism, and immune health.

What role does it play in health ?

• It plays a key role in gut health by breaking down mucus in the intestinal lining, which helps regulate the gut barrier and immune responses.

• It has been linked to improved metabolism, reduced inflammation, and better insulin sensitivity.

• Some studies suggest it may help with obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders, such as insulin resistance.

• It is also being explored for its role in mental health and immune function.

How to Increase Akkermansia Levels Naturally

1. 🥑 Eat Prebiotic-Rich Foods ( Feeds good bacteria )

   • Polyphenol-rich foods: Berries, grapes, green tea, dark chocolate

   • High-fiber foods: Onions, leeks, garlic, asparagus, bananas

   • Omega-3 fatty acids: Fish, flaxseeds, walnuts

2. 🥛 Consume Fermented Foods (which support gut bacteria)

   • Yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir

3. 🥶 Try Cold Exposure

   • Some research suggests that cold exposure (like cold showers or ice baths) may help boost Akkermansia levels. More research needed but cold exposure like ice baths are beneficial for many areas of health so why not.

4. 🍎 Limit Processed Foods & Artificial Sweeteners

   • Ultra-processed foods and artificial sweeteners can disrupt gut bacteria balance.

5. Consider intermittent fasting: Some studies suggest that intermittent fasting may increase Akkermansia levels. 

6. 💊 Akkermansia Supplements?

   • Researchers are developing Akkermansia muciniphila as a probiotic supplement to improve gut and metabolic health. This is not the first point of call always check gut bacteria level as elevated levels can be just as bad as low levels.

   • Supplement such as inulin can help Akkermansia grow. found in some prebiotic combinations.

     
     

7. Limit antibiotic use - Antibiotic can affect gut microbiome and should be limited to only when absolutely necessary. If having to use alway back up with probiotic and prebiotics

High levels often caused by parasites can cause leaky gut syndrome as it weakens the gut lining, can lead to inflammatory bowl conditions.

Some studies suggest that high Akkermansia muciniphila levels might be associated with colorectal cancer.

Akkermansia muciniphila is one of the most exciting discoveries in microbiome science. While it's not a magic bullet, increasing its levels naturally through diet and lifestyle may support overall health. Using it as a supplement if tested and low by imporved insulin resistance, mental health and immune system

 For any ongoing chronic condition, it is important to be assessed or examined by your healthcare professional or specialist. Always seek medical advice in emergencies. The information displayed in this post is to be used as information only, always seek professional advice before starting any medication.