The Link Between Your Gut and Heart
February marks the start of American Heart Month– a perfect time to explain the link between your gut and heart. In the past, we have focused our attention on the gut-brain connection and the latest studies linking gastrointestinal health with mental wellbeing. While most people are aware of the importance of our heart for our overall health, not as many realize the impact our gut health has on our body, and even fewer people are aware of the relationship between our gut and heart.
Your Gut and Your Overall Health
Many people believe that gut health is solely linked to gastrointestinal health. But, there is evidence to suggest that the gut microbiome is actually involved in numerous systems of the body. Overall human health, and virtually all diseases are connected to gut health in one way or another. This is partly because seventy percent of the body’s inflammatory cells are housed in the gut-associated tissue, which means that gut bacteria have a significant role in the inflammatory response of the entire body. Many of these bacteria are considered “gut bacteria” that help aid in the digestive system’s normal functions and work to defend your body from more harmful organisms. There is still much left to discover about the impact your gut health has on your overall health. Still, initial research has identified substantial links between the microbes in our intestines and most of the systems of the body, including the vascular, nervous, endocrine, and immune systems.
Your Gut and Your Heart Health
One of the areas of research that has been gaining momentum over the last few years is the connection between gut health and cardiovascular health. Many studies measure trimethylamine‐N‐oxide (TMAO) levels, a substance produced by certain unhealthy gut bacteria. Elevated levels of TMAO have also been associated with cardiovascular problems. In a series of studies, researchers found that high levels of TMAO were associated with a 62 percent higher risk of major cardiovascular events, including heart attack and stroke, and a 63 percent higher risk of death from all causes. Aside from TMAO, there are even more elements of gut health that connect to cardiovascular health. According to research, nearly a quarter of the American population is estimated to have small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, but for those with IBS, this can be as high as 78 percent. In a 2018 study reviewed in Digestive Disease and Sciences, researchers found that patients with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth had an 80 percent higher chance of having heart disease.
How to Maintain a Healthy Gut and Heart
Fortunately, certain lifestyle changes can benefit both the gut and heart, leading to an improvement in your overall health. Starting with a healthy diet that avoids processed food, refined carbohydrates, and excess fat and sugar can help keep your gut balanced and your heart healthy. Replacing these unhealthy foods with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will benefit your entire body. Regular exercise and daily stress-relieving activities have also been known to benefit your gut and heart health.
Contact Birmingham Gastroenterology
A gastroenterologist is best equipped to diagnose the underlying cause of any possible gastrointestinal condition. If you are looking for ways to improve your gut health, or if you have questions about the relationship between your gut and heart health, Birmingham Gastroenterology can help. We have decades of experience treating diseases and disorders in all parts of the digestive system. To make an appointment to discuss your symptoms and treatment options or ask questions about activities that help aid digestion, call us at (205) 271-8000.