The Benefits of Akkermansia for Gut Health

Akkermansia is a species of bacteria found in the gut, particularly Akkermansia muciniphila, which is the most studied species. It is a gram negative (thin-walled) gut microbe that resides in the mucous layer (mucosa) of the gut lining (muciniphila meaning mucous loving) and directly interacts with intestinal cells which line the gut and form a crucial barrier.

Here are 6 potential benefits associated with Akkermansia:

1. Improved Gut Health: Akkermansia may help to maintain the integrity of the gut lining by breaking down mucus, which is a vital component of the gut’s protective barrier. This process can improve gut health and reduce the risk of gut-related issues such as increased intestinal permeability (aka leaky gut) or inflammation.

2. Support the production of short chain fatty acids: While Akkermansia is known for helping to maintain the gut’s mucous layer, it also contributes to the production of short chain fatty acids (SCFA). SCFA are important metabolites produced by the fermentation of dietary fibres by gut bacteria. SCFAs have numerous beneficial effects on gut health and overall wellbeing. They are used as an energy source by colonocytes (cells lining the colon), help maintain the integrity of the gut lining, reduce inflammation and more.

3. May support for Metabolic Health: Some studies suggest that Akkermansia may play a role in improving metabolism and combating obesity. Akkermansia is thought to stimulate GLP-1 secretions, a hormone that is produced when we eat, helping to regulate blood sugar, promoting the release of insulin, and suppressing the appetite. This may be beneficial for conditions like obesity, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes. However, it's important to note that diet and lifestyle plays an essential role in reducing the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.

4. May have Anti-inflammatory Effects: Akkermansia may help modulate the immune system, potentially leading to reduced chronic low-grade inflammation, which is often associated with a variety of diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and more.

5. May Improve Immune System Function: We know that the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in regulating immune responses, and Akkermansia is believed to help maintain a balanced immune function. This may be due to the fact that it resides and thrives in the mucous layer of the gut wall where it helps to protect against toxins, bacteria and food particles from the gut entering the bloodstream and activating an immune response, which is linked to inflammation, autoimmune diseases and more.

6. May support the Gut-Brain Axis: There's growing interest in the gut-brain connection, and Akkermansia might influence mood and cognitive function through the gut-brain axis. This is still an area of ongoing research, but some studies suggest a potential role for Akkermansia in reducing stress and improving cognitive health.

How to increase Akkermansia

A stool test such as the GI360 assesses a wide range of bacteria including Akkermansia Mucinaphilia. Certain symptoms such as recurring infections, inflammation and increased intestinal permeability (leaky gut) may indicate that your mucus layer needs support. While there aren’t specific foods that contain akkermansia, there are some foods that may encourage its growth:

● Polyphenols: Polyphenols are a group of naturally occurring plant compounds that act as powerful antioxidants and may support the mucus layer and reduce inflammation. Sources of polyphenols include berries, fresh herbs, pomegranate, green tea, curcumin etc.

● Prebiotics: Dietary fibre serves as a prebiotic which provides a source of nutrients for beneficial bacteria which may also support akkermansia. Sources include fruits, vegetables, legumes etc.

● Healthy fats: Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, can positively influence the gut microbiome, potentially increasing the levels of beneficial bacteria like Akkermansia muciniphila. Sources of healthy fats include oily fish, flaxseeds, walnuts etc

Supplements are also available to support gut health by nurturing the microbiome with Akkermansia muciniphila. Buy Akkermansia Supplement HERE

Further testing at Body Fabulous

GI360 Stool Test - If you are interested in assessing your Akkermansia Mucinipholia levels our GI360 stool test includes this marker as well as an overall assessment of your gut microbiome, parasites, harmful bacteria and more.

Book a General Advice Call - Speak with our clinical team who can advise on the right testing to help you identify the right tests or supplements based on your symptoms.