Exploring Women & the Microbiome
Research has shown that male and female microbiota differ at the phyla, genus and species level, with greater diversity in females. Further, there is new work focused on the microgenderome—the interaction between microbiota, sex hormones and immune system, as well as the impact on the gut-brain axis and how that could contribute to certain neurological conditions with greater incidence in one or the other gender. What is the opportunity to integrate this perspective into the work that will shape the future of the broader -biotics industry?
In the closing session of the Future of the Microbiome summit last week, I had the opportunity to discuss with Tiffany Weir PhD, Colorado State University; and Kristina Campbell author and educator, multiple considerations around women and the microbiome. From the maternal involvement in delivering our own microbiota, through hormonal and dietary shifts, and into the considerations of researchers, our conversation explored the need for more research as well as personalized solutions.
Starting from the pre-natal period, both Kristina and Tiffany emphasized the opportunity to optimize the maternal microbiome to deliver optimal health for the child, and the need for more research on potential interventions. Kristina encouraged a focus on areas where there is a lack of solutions, such as pre-term birth and the potential of the microbiome to play a role. Tiffany concurred, adding that ‘moving in that direction where we have evidence not just of efficacy but safety in that population will be important for adoption for the medical community.’
As with multiple other sessions during the Winter 2024 summit, the speakers honed in on personalization and precision health as the key to a path forward. In microbiome studies, focusing on responders and non-responders could offer more insights to chart a path forward, according to Tiffany, while also exploring the phases of life linked to hormonal fluctuations in women, from pre-partum through post-menopause. Further, Kristina commented, ‘One of the foremost promises in the microbiome area is how it will lead us to more personalized products [and] it is happening behind the scenes.’
领英推荐
In addition, Kristina and Tiffany talked about the opportunity to educate nutritionists and dietitians, as well as consumers, about the positive impact of diet on microbiome health, and using that as a first-line approach toward wellness. ‘There is so much about our health that we don’t have control over, but we can intervene in this,’ Tiffany commented, adding that in her work with nutrition students at CSU, they see the opportunity for empowering consumers, and this is a great place to grasp onto the science. Kristina agreed, encouraging industry professionals and formulators to think about developing products that feed the microbiome, remembering ‘evidence is so important and will separate empty marketing from products that have real value.’
Interested in hearing more? The Future of the Microbiome Summit is now available on demand; click here to explore and learn more.
It's exciting to see your insights on the #microbiome and its impact on women's health ??. As Marie Curie once said, "Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood." Expanding our understanding in these areas opens up vast opportunities for better health outcomes. You might also find interest in how we're embracing nature's impact through our upcoming sponsorship opportunity for the Guinness World Record of Tree Planting, a venture that aligns with nurturing and growth. Discover more: https://bit.ly/TreeGuinnessWorldRecord ???