Basic profile intestine | Microbiome & Leaky Gut & Histamine & Akkermansia + F.prausni

The gut microbiome/intestinal flora, often simply referred to as the microbiome, encompasses all microorganisms living in the human gut. These microorganisms consist primarily of bacteria, but also include viruses, fungi, and archaea. Here are some important aspects of the gut microbiome:
Composition and function of the intestinal microbiome
Bacteria:
Number and diversity: Approximately 100 trillion bacterial cells live in the human gut, making the microbiome one of the largest microbial communities in the body.
Main groups: The most important bacterial phyla in the intestine are Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria.
Other microorganisms:
Viruses: A smaller but significant group of microorganisms in the gut, including bacteriophages (viruses that infect bacteria).
Fungi: Candida species are examples of fungi that can be found in the intestines.
Archaea: These lesser-known microorganisms are also part of the microbiome and play a role in methane metabolism.
Functions of the intestinal microbiome
Digestion and nutrient absorption:
Fermentation: Bacteria ferment indigestible food components (such as fiber) and produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as butyrate, acetate, and propionate, which serve as an energy source for the intestinal mucosa and other tissues.
Synthesis of vitamins: Some bacteria in the intestine are able to synthesize vitamins such as vitamin K and some B vitamins.
Immune system:
Immune system modulation: The microbiome plays an important role in the development and function of the immune system. It helps defend against pathogens and regulates inflammatory processes.
Barrier function: The microorganisms support the integrity of the intestinal barrier and prevent the penetration of harmful substances.
Metabolism and weight control:
Metabolism: The microbiome influences metabolism, including energy production from food and body weight regulation.
Hormone production: Some gut bacteria produce hormones and neurotransmitters that can affect appetite and metabolism.
Protection against pathogens:
Competition: The microbiome competes with pathogenic microorganisms for nutrients and attachment sites in the intestine, making colonization by pathogens more difficult.
Production of antimicrobial substances: Some bacteria produce substances that kill pathogens or inhibit their growth.
Factors that influence the microbiome
Nutrition:
High-fiber diet: Promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria that ferment fiber.
Sugar and fat: A diet rich in sugar and fat can lead to dysbiosis (imbalance of microflora).
Antibiotics:
Antibiotic use: Can significantly alter the microbiome and deplete beneficial bacteria, leading to temporary or long-term dysbiosis.
Lifestyle and environment:
Stress: Chronic stress can negatively impact the microbiome.
Hygiene: Excessive hygiene and disinfection can reduce exposure to beneficial microbes.
Importance of the microbiome for health
A healthy gut microbiome is crucial for overall well-being. Disturbances in the microbiome are associated with a variety of health problems, including:
Digestive disorders: Such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Metabolic diseases: Such as obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Mental health: There is evidence that the microbiome influences brain function and mood (gut-brain axis).
Microbiome research is a dynamic field that continues to provide new insights into the complex interactions between microorganisms and human health.

A healthy gut contributes significantly to overall well-being and manifests itself through a range of positive signs and symptoms. Here are some ways you can test whether your gut is healthy and how to recognize a healthy gut:
1. Signs of a healthy gut
Regular bowel movements: One to three times a day, without discomfort.
Formed stool: The stool should be firm but not hard and easy to pass (Bristol Stool Form Scale Type 3-4).
No constipation: Regular bowel movements without effort.
Flat stomach: No persistent feeling of fullness or bloating.
Minimal flatulence: A small amount of flatulence that is not uncomfortable or painful.
No discomfort after eating: No discomfort, bloating or pain after eating food.
2. Self-observation
Keep a food diary: Record what you eat and how your body reacts to it. Pay attention to patterns and recurring symptoms.
Stool monitoring: Pay attention to the frequency, shape, color, and consistency of your stool. The Bristol Stool Scale can be helpful.
3. Stool test
A stool test can provide detailed information about intestinal health. You can request this through your doctor or have it performed at specialized laboratories. The analysis includes:
Microbiome analysis: Investigation of bacterial diversity and the balance of the intestinal flora.
Inflammatory markers: Measurement of calprotectin and other markers that indicate inflammation.
Pathogen detection: Checking for harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
pH and digestive residues: indications of the intestinal environment and digestive efficiency.
4. Medical examination
Doctor's visit: If symptoms persist or if you have any concerns, you should consult a gastroenterologist. The doctor can perform a comprehensive examination and order further tests, such as a colonoscopy, to rule out structural problems in the intestine.
Blood tests: These can provide evidence of systemic inflammation or nutrient deficiencies that could indicate impaired bowel function.
5. Lifestyle and nutritional factors
High-fiber diet: A balanced diet with sufficient fiber promotes intestinal health.
Probiotics and prebiotics: Consumption of foods containing probiotic cultures (e.g. yogurt, kefir) and prebiotic fiber (e.g. chicory, onions).
Sufficient fluids: Drinking plenty of water supports digestion and stool passage.
Exercise: Regular physical activity promotes intestinal motility.
Conclusion
You can recognize a healthy gut by regular, problem-free digestion, a flat stomach, and the absence of discomfort after eating. Self-monitoring of your diet and digestion can provide initial clues. If you have any concerns or persistent problems, it is advisable to seek medical help.

Leaky gut syndrome, also known as "leaky gut," is a controversial diagnosis that states that the intestinal lining is more permeable than normal, allowing undigested food particles, toxins, and microbes to enter the bloodstream. There are various tests and methods to detect evidence of leaky gut syndrome:
1. Intestinal zonulin test
Zonulin levels in stool: Zonulin is a protein that regulates the permeability of the intestinal mucosa. Elevated zonulin levels in the blood can indicate increased intestinal permeability. A stool test can measure zonulin levels.
2. Stool test
Alpha-1 antitrypsin: This inflammatory marker can be measured in stool. An elevated level can indicate inflammatory processes and a compromised intestinal barrier.
3. Lactulose-Mannitol Test
Permeability test: This test measures the absorption of two sugar molecules, lactulose and mannitol, after oral ingestion. Increased excretion of lactulose in the urine may indicate increased intestinal permeability.
4. Inflammatory markers in the blood
C-reactive protein (CRP): A general marker of inflammation in the body that can also be elevated in intestinal inflammation.
Other specific markers: Depending on the suspicion and symptoms, other markers such as IL-6 or TNF-α can be examined.
5. Intestinal flora status
Microbiome analysis: An examination of the intestinal flora can provide clues to dysbiosis that could be associated with leaky gut syndrome.
6. History and symptoms
Symptoms and medical history: Your doctor will take a detailed medical history to evaluate symptoms such as chronic fatigue, digestive problems, skin problems, or autoimmune diseases that could indicate leaky gut syndrome.
Procedure for diagnosing leaky gut syndrome
Doctor visit: Make an appointment with a gastroenterologist or other specialist who has experience with leaky gut syndrome.
Symptom assessment: Discuss your symptoms and obtain a detailed medical history.
Blood and stool tests: Have zonulin levels measured in the blood and alpha-1 antitrypsin levels in the stool.
Lactulose-mannitol test: In some cases, this test may be performed additionally.
Microbiome analysis: If necessary, an analysis of the intestinal flora can be ordered.
Holistic assessment: Your doctor will evaluate the test results in combination with your symptoms to make a diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment.
It is important to emphasize that leaky gut syndrome is unfortunately still controversial in the scientific community and not all doctors and experts recognize this diagnosis.

Fungal infections in the body can manifest themselves in a variety of ways, depending on the affected area and the type of fungus. Here are some of the most common symptoms and signs of fungal infections in different parts of the body:
1. Skin fungus (dermatomycosis)
Symptoms: Itching, burning, redness, scaling and sometimes blistering.
Common sites: Feet (athlete's foot), groin area (groin fungus), hands, body (ringworm).
Appearance: Ring-shaped, scaly patches with a clear border may occur.
2. Nail fungus (onychomycosis)
Symptoms: Thickened, discolored (yellow, brown or white) nails, brittle or peeling nails, nail deformities.
Common sites: toenails and fingernails.
3. Oral thrush (oral candidiasis)
Symptoms: White, creamy patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, palate and sometimes throat, redness and pain.
Additional signs: difficulty swallowing, changes in taste, cracking in the corners of the mouth.
4. Vaginal fungus (vaginal candidiasis)
Symptoms: Severe itching, burning, redness and swelling in the vaginal area, thick, white, lumpy discharge (similar to cottage cheese).
Additional signs: Pain during urination and sexual intercourse.
5. Intestinal fungus (intestinal candidiasis)
Symptoms: Bloating, diarrhea or constipation, abdominal pain, fatigue, cravings for sugar and carbohydrates.
Additional signs: Often non-specific symptoms that can be confused with other digestive problems.
6. Systemic candidiasis
Symptoms: Fever, chills, general feeling of illness, in severe cases impairment of organs such as the liver, kidneys, lungs or brain.
Risk: Occurs mainly in immunocompromised individuals, such as patients with HIV/AIDS, after organ transplants or chemotherapy.
General information and risk factors
Immune deficiency: People with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to fungal infections.
Antibiotic use: Long-term or frequent use of antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of microflora and promote the growth of fungi.
Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can increase the risk of fungal infections.
Humidity and warmth: Tight clothing, humid environments and poor ventilation promote fungal growth.

Histamine intolerance (HIT) is an intolerance to histamine – a natural substance that acts as a messenger in the body, for example, in the immune system or in stomach acid production. In HIT, the body cannot adequately break down histamine, usually due to a deficiency of the enzyme diamine oxidase (DAO).

An excess of histamine in the intestines can lead to symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, heartburn, nausea, or cramps. Skin rashes, headaches, or circulatory problems are also possible. Histamine increases stomach acid, promotes inflammation, and can weaken the intestinal barrier—which, in the long term, puts strain on the entire organism.

Causes are often foods rich in or releasing histamine (e.g. cheese, red wine, tomatoes, chocolate), certain medications, chronic stress or a weakened intestinal flora.

To help relieve:
• Low-histamine diet
• DAO supplements before meals
• Antihistamines for acute symptoms
• Probiotics and prebiotics to strengthen the intestinal flora

A targeted intestinal test can help identify the cause and take individual countermeasures.