Nicolette: 0:01

Welcome to the Health Pulse, your go-to source for quick, actionable insights on health, wellness and diagnostics. Whether you're looking to optimize your well-being or stay informed about the latest in medical testing, we've got you covered. Join us as we break down key health topics in just minutes. Let's dive in.

Mark: 0:23

All right, so we've got this quote right and it's a pretty old one, like way back ancient wisdom type stuff. All disease begins in the gut, hippocrates thousands of years ago. And it's wild because it seems like now science is like hey, he might have been onto something.

Rachel: 0:39

It is amazing, right? You look at that and think, wow, they had an intuition about these things so long ago. And now we're really starting to understand the gut. It's not just about, you know, digesting food. This is like mission control for so much in our bodies the immune system, hormones, even how much inflammation we're dealing with. It all ties back to the gut.

Mark: 0:58

Totally. And that kind of brings us to what we're digging into today. It's this hormone, glucagon-like peptide 1, or GLP-1. Now, some people they might have heard about this, you know, in relation to blood sugar, but GLP-1, it does way more than that, especially when it comes to our gut working right and our immune system not going haywire.

Rachel: 1:16

And the thing is, if this GLP-1 signaling gets messed up which can happen from I don't know a bad diet, too much stress, food sensitivities even it can really throw things off. I mean, you could be looking at constant bloating, inflammation, going through the roof, feeling wiped out all the time and down the line it can even mess with how your body uses energy.

Mark: 1:37

Not good. So for everyone listening, here's the roadmap for today's deep dive. We're going to break down exactly how GLP-1 impacts your digestion, how it plays a role in inflammation and how it talks to your immune system. We're also going to look at food sensitivities and how they can wreak havoc on your gut. Plus, we'll explore some advanced lab tests that can give you a peek behind the curtain of what's happening in there and, of course, some totally doable natural ways to get your gut back on track and feeling awesome overall.

Rachel: 2:05

This is all about. You know, whether you're battling the bloat monster every day or you're just curious about how your gut and immune system are like best friends, forever understanding how food, hormones and all those tiny little microbes in your gut work together. It's powerful stuff.

Mark: 2:19

So let's get back to basics for a sec. What exactly is this GLP-1 we keep talking about?

Rachel: 2:26

Right. So GLP-1, it's a hormone made by these special cells called L-cells. And where do they hang out? Lining of your small intestine. The cool part is, when you eat, especially carbs and fats, it's like a signal to these L-cells Time to release the GLP-1.

Mark: 2:39

So we eat L-cells, get the memo GLP-1 is released. What happens next? What does it actually do?

Rachel: 2:45

Okay. So GLP-1, it's a multitasker big time. First off, it's a blood sugar hero. It boosts insulin secretion, and insulin that's the key to getting glucose out of your blood and keeping those blood sugar levels in check. But it's not just about increasing insulin. Glp-1 also dials down glucagon, and glucagon and glucagon that's the hormone that actually raises blood sugar.

Mark: 3:04

So you see, it's a two-pronged approach to keeping things balanced, gotcha. So it's like a blood sugar seesaw and GLP-1 is making sure it doesn't go too high or too low.

Rachel: 3:13

Exactly Now. Have you ever noticed how, after a meal, you just feel satisfied like you've had enough? Well, glp-1 plays a big role in that too. It slows down something called gastric emptying. Basically, it controls how fast food moves from your stomach to your small intestine.

Mark: 3:30

Like a traffic controller for digestion.

Rachel: 3:32

I like that. Yeah, it's like a traffic controller. By slowing things down, you stay full longer and that naturally helps with appetite control. But it goes even further. Glp-1 actually sends signals to your brain. It's like, hey, we're good down here, you can stop feeling hungry now.

Mark: 3:47

So it's a direct line from gut to brain, saying we're all fueled up.

Rachel: 3:51

Right, and this back and forth between the gut and the brain is super important. It's actually a big part of what's called the incretin effect. It's this whole system that coordinates how your body digests food and manages your metabolism, all based on what you're eating.

Mark: 4:05

It's incredible how interconnected our bodies are Now. Earlier you mentioned that GLP-1, it wears many hats Beyond blood sugar and appetite. What else does it do?

Rachel: 4:14

Okay, this is where it gets super interesting. Research is showing that GLP-1 is a big deal for gut health. It helps maintain what we call the gut barrier. Think of it like a wall protecting your insides. Glp-1 makes sure the connections between the cells in this wall stay nice and tight. That's key for stopping things that don't belong, like toxins and undigested food, from leaking out into your system.

Mark: 4:37

Yeah, leaky gut, we hear about that all the time. So GLP-1 is like the sealant, keeping that barrier strong.

Rachel: 4:43

Right on. But that's not all. It also plays a part in immune signaling within the gut. It helps your gut's own little immune system function properly, and it even helps keep inflammation in check. All of this points to this crucial link Food, gut health and your immune system. They're all intertwined.

Mark: 5:00

So it's like a guardian of the gut, making sure everything runs smoothly.

Rachel: 5:03

And get this Research from the National Institutes of Health. The NIH suggests that GLP-1 might be helpful in treating more than just diabetes and obesity, which we already knew. It could even help with conditions linked to gut issues and low-grade inflammation throughout the body.

Mark: 5:17

Wow, so we're talking potentially helping with things like brain fog, irritable bowel syndrome, all that.

Rachel: 5:28

That's huge.

Mark: 5:28

It's a really exciting area of research and it underscores how important this hormone is for our overall health. So we've established GLP-1 is a rock star. Now let's zoom in on how it impacts our gut function and immune response right there in the digestive system.

Rachel: 5:38

Absolutely so. We know GLP-1 manages blood sugar and appetite, but its effects on gut health and immunity, those are becoming more and more clear. Because it's made right there in the lining of the intestines, GLP-1 is perfectly positioned to support the gut barrier, balance the immune system in the gut and keep inflammation under control, All essential for good digestion and, you know, feeling good in general.

Mark: 6:02

Okay, so how does it do all that? What's the behind-the-scenes action in the gut?

Rachel: 6:06

well, there are a few key ways glp-1 works its magic. One of the most important is by strengthening the gut barrier. Remember we talked about leaky gut? Well, glp-1 helps make sure those tiny junctions between the cells and your gut lining stay tight so nothing sneaks through.

Mark: 6:21

That shouldn't so it's like reinforcing the walls of the gut fortress.

Rachel: 6:24

Exactly, and that's important because it keeps things like toxins and undigested food particles from getting into your bloodstream and causing trouble. Then there's cut motility that's basically how fast food travels through your digestive tract. Glt-1 actually helps slow down that process.

Mark: 6:42

Slower digestion. That makes me think of like really savoring your food and getting all the good stuff out of it.

Rachel: 6:47

That's a great way to think about it, and that's exactly what happens. The slower transit time means better digestion and absorption of nutrients. But wait, there's more. Glp-1 also supports this really cool part of your immune system called GALT.

Mark: 7:01

GALT. That sounds like something out of Star Wars.

Rachel: 7:03

It kind of does right. But GALT stands for gut-associated lymphoid tissue. Think of it as your gut's own personal immune system right there in the lining of your intestines and GLP-1, it interacts with the immune cells in GALT, helping to regulate the release of these things called cytokines.

Mark: 7:19

Cytokines, those are.

Rachel: 7:22

They're like little messengers that can, so GLP-1 helps make sure they're sending the right signals, and probably one of its most important jobs is reducing those signals that trigger inflammation. It's been shown to suppress the release of some key inflammatory players like TNF-alpha and IL-6. And guess what? Those are often elevated in chronic diseases that are linked to gut issues.

Mark: 7:45

So it's not just keeping the bad stuff out, it's actively calming things down in the gut. That's impressive.

Rachel: 7:50

Right, and there's research in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, summarized by the NIH, that suggests this GLP-1 receptor activity could be beneficial for conditions that involve chronic, low-grade inflammation. We're talking irritable bowel syndrome, metabolic syndrome, even inflammation in the brain. It really highlights just how far-reaching GLP-1's effects are.

Mark: 8:10

It's amazing to think that one hormone can do so much. Now let's talk about something that can really throw a wrench in the works Food sensitivities. They're kind of like the sneaky saboteurs of gut health.

Rachel: 8:21

Food sensitivities are a big deal and unfortunately they're often misunderstood. They might not cause those immediate oh my gosh, I need an EpiPen reactions like a food allergy, but they can definitely contribute to ongoing digestive issues, inflammation and even trigger your immune system.

Mark: 8:37

So how do food sensitivities differ from allergies? It can be hard to keep them straight, good question.

Rachel: 8:43

With food allergies, you have an immediate immune response driven by these things called IgE antibodies. It happens fast and it can be serious Food sensitivities. Though those are delayed Symptoms might not show up for hours or even days after you've eaten the culprit and they're not typically IgE mediated. This makes them way harder to figure out.

Mark: 9:03

So they're like the undercover agents of the food world.

Rachel: 9:06

Exactly Now. Food intolerances, those are different. They're usually about not having the right enzyme to break down a certain food component, not so much a full-blown immune response. Lactose intolerance is a good example.

Mark: 9:18

Okay, that makes sense. So what are some common foods that trigger these sensitivities?

Rachel: 9:22

The usual suspects are gluten, which is found in wheat, barley and rye. Then you've got dairy, especially casein and whey, eggs, soy, corn and even some food additives and preservatives can also be problematic for some people.

Mark: 9:36

And what happens when someone with a sensitivity keeps eating these foods?

Rachel: 9:39

Well, imagine your gut lining is getting irritated over and over again. That's what happens. This ongoing exposure can lead to low-grade inflammation in the gut, and that can mess with digestion, nutrient absorption and bring on a whole host of symptoms.

Mark: 9:54

Like what? What kind of symptoms are we talking about?

Rachel: 9:56

Oh, you know the usual suspects Bloating gas, brain fog, fatigue. Some people even get skin issues like eczema or acne, joint pain and even mood swings.

Mark: 10:06

So it's not just digestive woes. It can affect you in a lot of ways and even mood swings. So it's not just digestive woes.

Rachel: 10:10

It can affect you in a lot of ways. Absolutely, and unlike those intolerances we mentioned, sensitivities often involve the immune system. Specifically, both the innate and adaptive immune responses in your gut can get activated and over time this can make that leaky gut situation worse and even mess with GLP-1 signaling feeding the inflammation cycle.

Mark: 10:28

So it's this whole domino effect food sensitivities, leaky gut, glp-1 getting thrown off.

Rachel: 10:33

Precisely, and according to Harvard Health Publishing, food sensitivities can also change the makeup of your gut microbiota that's the trillions of microorganisms living in your gut, and if those get out of whack it can make digestive symptoms even worse and throw your immune system off balance.

Mark: 10:49

So figuring out and eliminating those trigger foods is key.

Rachel: 10:53

It can make a huge difference. Things like elimination diets, where you temporarily remove suspect foods and then reintroduce them carefully, or doing some lab testing to pinpoint specific sensitivities those can be really helpful in restoring gut harmony and reducing that underlying inflammation.

Mark: 11:09

We've mentioned the gut microbiota a few times now. It's like this whole hidden universe inside of us. Let's dive into that world and how it connects to inflammation.

Rachel: 11:17

The gut microbiome is fascinating. It's this massive community of microorganisms in your digestive tract. We're talking bacteria, fungi, viruses, the whole gang, gang and they play a huge role in so many things, from how we digest food to how our immune system works and even how much inflammation we have throughout our bodies so what happens when this little world inside us gets out of balance?

Rachel: 11:41

when that balance gets disrupted it's called dysbiosis and that's when problems can start popping up. We're talking poor nutrient absorption, chronic inflammation, metabolic. It really highlights how much our overall health relies on a happy gut microbiome.

Mark: 11:56

So what are some things that can throw off this microbial balance?

Rachel: 11:59

You know, a lot of it boils down to modern life a diet full of refined carbs, sugar, processed foods. That's like junk food for your gut. Bacteria Antibiotics, while sometimes necessary, can also wreak havoc on the balance, wiping out both good and bad bacteria. And then there's stress, environmental toxins and those food sensitivities we talked about. All of these can contribute to dysbiosis.

Mark: 12:19

So it's a combination of things, and how does this imbalance connect back to GLP-1?

Rachel: 12:23

Well, when your gut microbiome is out of whack, it can actually mess with both the production and signaling of GLP-1. On the flip side, when your gut microbiome is thriving, it helps produce these beneficial compounds called short-chain fatty acids or SCFAs. One of the most important SCFAs is butyrate.

Mark: 12:40

Butyrate, that sounds familiar.

Rachel: 12:42

It might. Butyrate is like a superfood for the cells lining your colon. It helps keep them healthy and functioning properly, but it does more than that. Butyrate actually stimulates the release of GLP-1 and helps maintain the strength of the gut barrier.

Mark: 12:57

It's like a win-win-win. So the good bacteria help us make more GLP-1. That's awesome.

Rachel: 13:00

It is, and without those helpful signals from a healthy microbiome, the gut can become more permeable, leading to leaky gut and allowing toxins and inflammatory compounds to escape into the bloodstream.

Mark: 13:12

That can lead to inflammation throughout the body.

Rachel: 13:14

Right and an imbalanced gut can also overstimulate the immune system. Your gut's immune system is constantly on patrol, keeping an eye on those microbes. When there's an overgrowth of harmful bacteria or not enough of the beneficial ones, it can trigger a chronic low-grade inflammatory state, and that's been linked to all sorts of issues like insulin resistance, autoimmune conditions, even mood disorders.

Mark: 13:38

It's incredible how much power our gut has over our well-being.

Rachel: 13:41

It really is, and a 2021 review in Frontiers in Endocrinology highlighted how the microbiome influences GLP-1 production and function, especially in cases of obesity, inflammation and metabolic disease. So keeping that microbiome balanced is crucial for both digestive and hormonal health.

Mark: 13:59

So let's say, someone's having digestive problems that just won't quit. What are some ways to peek inside and see what's happening in the gut?

Rachel: 14:05

When you've tried diet and lifestyle changes and you're still having issues. That's when advanced lab testing can be really helpful. These tests go deeper than your typical blood work and can uncover hidden imbalances in things like gut permeability, immune activation, inflammation and the specific makeup of your microbiome, all of which, as we've discussed, can affect GLP-1.

Mark: 14:27

That makes sense. What kind of tests are we talking about?

Rachel: 14:30

Two of the most widely used are the GI map, which stands for Gastrointestinal Microbial Asset Plus by Diagnostic Solutions, and the GI effects. Comprehensive stool profile by Genova Diagnostics. These are stool tests that give a detailed snapshot of what's going on in your gut.

Mark: 14:46

And what are some of the key things these tests look for?

Rachel: 14:53

They analyze a bunch of different markers. One is zonulin. That's a protein that regulates the tight junctions between cells in your gut lining. High levels of zonulin usually mean you've got leaky gut. Then there's fecal calprotectin. This is a marker of inflammation in the gut. Elevated levels often point to inflammatory bowel conditions.

Mark: 15:06

So those are pretty direct indicators of gut health. What else do they look at?

Rachel: 15:09

They also measure secretory IgA or SESE. This reflects your gut's first line of immune defense. Abnormal levels can indicate chronic stress, food sensitivities or general immune dysregulation in the gut.

Mark: 15:23

So like is your gut's immune system on high alert.

Rachel: 15:25

Exactly. And then there's microbiome mapping. This involves DNA sequencing of your stool sample to see what kinds of bacteria are living in your gut and how much of each type. This can reveal imbalances like dysbiosis or an overgrowth of harmful bacteria.

Mark: 15:40

That's like taking a microbial census.

Rachel: 15:42

You got it. Finally, they often look at things like beta-glucuronidase, an enzyme involved in detoxification, and those short-chain fatty acids we talked about. These give us info about the metabolic activity of your gut bacteria, which can impact hormone balance and inflammation.

Mark: 15:57

So they painted a pretty comprehensive picture. How does all this information help with treatment?

Rachel: 16:01

These advanced tests give us such detailed information about your individual gut environment, immune activity and inflammation levels that healthcare providers can use it to create a personalized treatment plan. For instance, elevated zonulin and low short-chain fatty acids might explain why someone's GLP-1 signaling isn't working right, even if they don't have a diagnosed digestive disorder.

Mark: 16:24

It's like getting a customized roadmap for your gut health.

Rachel: 16:26

Exactly, and at-home collection kits available through services like QuickLab Mobile are making this kind of testing more accessible than ever.

Mark: 16:34

That's great news. So if we want to support our gut health and boost our GLP-1 naturally, what are some things we can do?

Rachel: 16:40

The good news is, you don't always need medication. There are lots of natural strategies to help bring your gut back into balance, reduce inflammation and support healthy GLP-1 production and regulation.

Mark: 16:50

Okay, so let's start with food. What are some key dietary strategies?

Rachel: 16:54

A nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory diet is the foundation. Lots of high-fiber foods, especially soluble fiber found in oats, flax seeds, legumes and root vegetables. Those fibers feed the good bacteria in your gut and can help boost GLP-1 secretion. Also, pile on those colorful fruits and veggies. They're full of polyphenols and antioxidants that support a healthy microbiome and immune system. Choosing low-glycemic carbs is also a good idea. They help prevent those big spikes in insulin, which can contribute to more stable GLP-1 activity. And finally, consider an elimination diet. Temporarily removing common trigger foods like gluten, dairy or soy and then reintroducing them carefully can help you pinpoint sensitivities, reduce inflammation and basically hit the reset button on your digestive system.

Mark: 17:39

Great dietary tips. What about the supplements? Anything that can be particularly helpful?

Rachel: 17:43

Absolutely, probiotics, and prebiotics are fantastic for promoting a diverse gut microbiome and boosting short-chain fatty acid production, which, as we know, stimulates GLP-1 release. Digestive enzymes can be helpful for breaking down food and easing the burden on your gut lining. Berberine, a plant compound, has been shown to support insulin sensitivity and GLP-1 receptor activity. Inulin and resistant starches are types of fiber that specifically feed those short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria and, for those dealing with leaky gut, l-glutamine can help support gut lining integrity.

Mark: 18:16

So strategic diet and supplements can make a real difference. What about lifestyle factors like stress and sleep?

Rachel: 18:21

Those are crucial too. Chronic stress can disrupt the gut-brain axis and interfere with GLP-1 activity. Incorporating stress-reducing practices like deep breathing, yoga or mindfulness can really help your gut. Sleep is also essential. Poor sleep can lead to lower insulin sensitivity and reduce GLP-1 production. Aim for 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep every night. Some people also find that intermittent fasting, done correctly, can be beneficial. Those periods without food might increase the body's own GLP-1 production and give the gut a chance to repair itself.

Mark: 18:55

It seems like a holistic approach is really the way to go.

Rachel: 18:58

I agree, A personalized approach that combines diet supplements and lifestyle changes is often the most effective way to address gut issues and support GLP-1. And, as we mentioned, QuickLab Mobile offers access to those advanced gut tests, like the GI map and Genova GIFX, for anyone who wants to delve deeper into their gut health.

Mark: 19:15

This has been super informative. To wrap things up, what's the main takeaway you want listeners to remember?

Rachel: 19:20

The biggest thing to remember is GLP-1 is not just about metabolism. It's a key player in gut health, immunity and controlling inflammation throughout the body.

Mark: 19:30

And our gut health impacts all of those things.

Rachel: 19:32

Exactly when your gut is struggling, whether it's from a bad diet, stress or food sensitivities, GLP-1 signaling can take a hit, and that can lead to all sorts of problems Digestive issues, fatigue, even more serious health concerns.

Mark: 19:48

So understanding this connection is the first step towards feeling better.

Rachel: 19:56

Right. When you understand how GLP-1, food sensitivities and the microbiome all work together, you can start making changes that will improve your digestion, reduce inflammation and restore balance to your body.

Mark: 20:02

And there are so many options available, from advanced testing to diet and lifestyle changes.

Rachel: 20:06

Yes, a personalized approach can help you uncover the root cause of your symptoms and create a plan for lasting gut health.

Mark: 20:12

So here's a final thought for everyone listening. If you've been dealing with bloating, brain fog or digestive issues that just won't quit, maybe it's time to investigate your gut health and how your GLP-1 is functioning. It could be the missing piece of the puzzle.

Rachel: 20:26

It's definitely worth considering and for those who want to learn more about advanced gut testing, including the GI map and Genova GI effects, check out Quick Lab Mobile. You can also find more resources and info on the lab report.

Mark: 20:39

Your gut might be trying to tell you something. Info on the lab report. Your gut might be trying to tell you something.

Nicolette: 20:45

Thanks for tuning into the Health Pulse. If you found this episode helpful, don't forget to subscribe and share it with someone who might benefit. For more health insights and diagnostics, visit us online at wwwquicklabmobilecom. No-transcript.