How Your Gut Microbiome Can Mimic Ozempic*

In the intricate realm of our gut microbiome, two influential factors—Akkermansia Muciniphila and short chain fatty acids (SCFAs)—stand out as potent contributors to glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) production, mirroring the mechanism of action of pharmaceutical GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic.

Research published in Cell Host & Microbe (Everard et al., 2013) demonstrated the symbiotic relationship between A. Muciniphila and GLP-1 secretion. Elevated levels of A. Muciniphila were linked with increased GLP-1 production, similar to the effects of GLP-1 agonists such as Ozempic. This enhancement in GLP-1 levels not only improved glucose metabolism but also mitigated inflammation and supported gut barrier function, crucial aspects of metabolic health.

Further reinforcing these findings, a study in Nature Medicine (Dao et al., 2016) showcased the therapeutic potential of A. Muciniphila in combatting obesity and type 2 diabetes. Administration of A. Muciniphila led to heightened GLP-1 levels, similar to the action of GLP-1 agonists, thereby improving glucose tolerance and reducing fat mass in experimental models.

Yet, these effects extend beyond A. Muciniphila alone. SCFAs, like acetate, propionate, and butyrate, created by select gut bacteria through fibre fermentation and ghee or grass fed butter, also wield considerable influence over GLP-1 regulation. Research outlined in Nature Communications (Tolhurst et al., 2012) demonstrated the direct stimulation of GLP-1 secretion by SCFAs, culminating in enhanced glucose tolerance and heightened insulin sensitivity—benefits mirroring the pharmaceutical GLP-1 agonists such as Victoza and Ozempic.

By encouraging a diverse gut microbiome teeming with SCFA-producing bacteria, individuals can amplify GLP-1 production, echoing the effects of pharmaceutical interventions. This underscores the significance of a polyphenol and fibre-rich diet, which serves as fuel for SCFA synthesis by gut bacteria.

In essence, the intricate interplay between A. Muciniphila, SCFAs, and GLP-1 production presents a promising path for optimising metabolic health. Through dietary interventions and targeted probiotic strategies, individuals can tap into their internal ecosystem's potential, mirroring the effects of pharmaceutical GLP-1 agonists to promote holistic well-being.

*Please be aware, this article has been published for education purposes. Please consult with your physician before modifying any medications (such as those mentioned).

In health and love

Deena

References:

- Everard, A., Belzer, C., Geurts, L., Ouwerkerk, J. P., Druart, C., Bindels, L. B., ... & Cani, P. D. (2013). Cross-talk between Akkermansia muciniphila and intestinal epithelium controls diet-induced obesity. Cell host & microbe, 14(5), 661-672.

- Dao, M. C., Everard, A., Aron-Wisnewsky, J., Sokolovska, N., Prifti, E., Verger, E. O., ... & Clement, K. (2016). Akkermansia muciniphila and improved metabolic health during a dietary intervention in obesity: relationship with gut microbiome richness and ecology. Nature medicine, 22(11), 1096-1103.

- Tolhurst, G., Heffron, H., Lam, Y. S., Parker, H. E., Habib, A. M., Diakogiannaki, E., ... & Gribble, F. M. (2012). Short-chain fatty acids stimulate glucagon-like peptide-1 secretion via the G-protein-coupled receptor FFAR2. Nature communications, 3(1), 1-6.