Gut microbes are fascinating entities that play a pivotal role in how energy is produced and used in our bodies. These tiny organisms produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are crucial in influencing our metabolic function.
For example, SCFAs such as acetate and propionate have a significant impact on glucose production and fat storage. They are not just passive bystanders — they actively shape the metabolic processes of their host. But have you ever wondered how the gut microbiome works for our primate companions?
Interestingly, each primate species exhibit variations in their gut microbiota composition, which are instrumental in supporting their brain evolution. Larger-brained primates, for instance, have gut microbiota that promotes energy use, while smaller-brained primates have microbiota that favors energy storage. This variation in gut microbiota composition is a key factor in understanding how energy is allocated in primates.1
The underlying metabolic differences in each species’ microbiota are rooted in their respective abilities to produce SCFAs, which are produced through the fermentation of dietary fibers and carbohydrates. Once synthesized, they influence various metabolic processes, including appetite regulation, fat synthesis and glucose metabolism. By modulating these processes, SCFAs help determine whether energy is used for immediate needs or stored for future use.
A Look Into the Gut Microbiota of Primates
A study published in Microbial Genomics investigated how gut microbiota across different primate species influences their metabolism. Specifically, the researchers focused on the relationship between brain size and energy requirements.2 The study utilized germ-free mice inoculated with gut microbiota from three primate species — macaques, squirrel monkeys and humans.
The three primates were selected based on their relative brain sizes and distinct metabolic traits, providing a comparative framework to explore how each gut microbiota affects the host’s metabolism. The researchers demonstrated that “the primate gut microbiota contributes to interspecific differences in host metabolism” and that the microbiota “of larger-brained primates shifts host metabolism towards energy use and production.”3
The findings reveal that microbiota from larger-brained primates exhibit significant metabolic differences. Specifically, the researchers noted that “High-EQ (encephalization quotient) primate-inoculated mice had significantly lower per cent body fat” and “appeared to have heightened energy production.”4
Additional testing shows increased fasting blood glucose levels and altered liver enzyme concentrations, indicating a shift towards enhanced energy utilization. There was also a notable increase in triglycerides and a decrease in cholesterol levels among the test subjects.5
The study identified SCFAs, particularly acetate and propionate, as key metabolites produced in greater concentrations by the gut microbiota of high-EQ primates. “The GMs (gut microbiota) of high-EQ primates produce increased concentrations of SCFAs, particularly acetate and propionate,” which play a crucial role in supporting energy metabolism.6
For example, propionate is important for optimal brain function among humans. As noted by the editors of Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience:7
“It plays an important role in maintaining the health and proper functioning of the brain and in protecting against neuroinflammation and neurodegenerative diseases (NDD), such as Alzheimer’s disease. These roles of propionate are potentially mediated by endocrine, immune, vagal, and humoral pathways …
In addition to the microbiota, other potential sources of propionate include the diet, where it is used as a food preservative, and in medical treatments, such as valproic acid. Propionate and propionate-enhancing pre/probiotics, diet, and fecal transplantation can be effective treatments for NDD, but measures should also be taken to prevent propionate toxicity.”
The Role of SCFAs in Energy Production
Mechanistically, the increased production of acetate and propionate by the gut microbiota influences liver gene expression, leading to enhanced energy production and utilization. In the words of the researchers, “These host metabolic differences are associated with changes in liver gene expression,” indicating a direct link between microbial activity and host metabolic pathways.8
Furthermore, SCFAs cross the blood-brain barrier, functioning either as an immediate energy source for the brain or as signaling molecules that regulate metabolic processes.9
The study also observed that “mice with the GMs from the two distantly related primate species with relatively high-EQ had a metabolic phenotype consistent with higher host energy use and production.” This means that the gut microbiota not only affects fat storage but also enhances the body’s ability to generate and utilize energy more efficiently.10
Consequently, “High-EQ primate-inoculated mice exhibited increased blood concentrations of ALP and ALT,” which are enzymes related to liver function, further supporting the metabolic shifts induced by the microbiota.11
Moreover, the research highlighted that “the glucose produced via this pathway could be a valuable energy source for the brain,” emphasizing the importance of gut-derived metabolites in supporting brain function.12
By fostering an environment where energy is readily available, the gut microbiota facilitates the maintenance and development of larger brains in primates. This symbiotic relationship underscores the pivotal role of gut microbes in evolutionary adaptations related to brain size and cognitive abilities.13
Four Ways to Support Optimal Gut-Brain Health
As shown in the published research, your gut microbiome plays a vital role in brain function and energy metabolism. By optimizing your gut health, you’ll be able to enhance your cognitive function and overall well-being. Here are four practical steps to nurture this connection:
1. Nourish beneficial bacteria with healthy carbohydrates — Incorporate healthy carbohydrates daily, adjusting based on your microbiome and activity level. Focus on whole fruits with pulp and gradually introduce fiber-rich foods as your gut health improves. But what if your gut is severely compromised and can’t tolerate complex carbohydrates? Don’t worry — I’ll give you tips on how to repair your gut in the last section.
2. Nurture a carbon dioxide-rich environment and eliminate harmful foods — Minimize oxygen by ensuring adequate cellular energy production through proper nutrition and stress management.
Avoid high-intensity exercise immediately after meals, as it can disrupt this delicate balance by redirecting blood flow away from digestion. Additionally, eliminate vegetable oils, processed foods and nuts from your diet to protect your gut and overall health.
3. Optimize SCFA production while protecting the gut barrier — Enhance the production of SCFAs, essential for both gut and brain health, by consuming appropriate carbohydrate sources. Introduce fiber gradually and monitor your body’s response to avoid increasing endotoxin levels. SCFAs help maintain the integrity of the blood-brain barrier, supporting overall well-being.
4. Protect mitochondrial function with healthy fats — Vegetable oils are one of the most pernicious toxins in the modern Western diet. Instead, cook homemade meals using natural fats like grass fed butter, tallow or ghee. These healthy fats support mitochondrial energy production and the maintenance of beneficial gut bacteria.
Additional Strategies to Support Gut Microbiome Function
Is your gut severely compromised? If it is, you need to slowly repair it until you’re able to digest healthy carbs regularly. In my interview with Dr. Vincent Pedre, an internist focusing on functional medicine and gut health, he recommends beginning with low-carb and carnivore-like diets, as this creates an environment that limits the fuel sources of pathogenic bacteria.
While it will bring results, I recommend against long-term implementation because you will eventually need carbohydrates. If you don’t have enough carbohydrate intake, your muscles will eventually waste away, and cortisol will elevate.
In my newest book, “Cellular Health,” I propose dextrose water as a way to help severely ill people to increase their carbohydrate intake without severe side effects. Unlike complex carbohydrates from fruits and vegetables, dextrose is absorbed in your small intestine and will not feed bacteria in the large intestine, thus preventing the production of endotoxin.
Certain foods will also help naturally strengthen your gut. For example, pomegranate extract and citrus bioflavonoids contain protective properties that will help rebuild the mucus layer in your gut. Moreover, these are effective in supporting the growth of probiotics without causing side effects such as gas and bloating, unlike other prebiotics.
Consider practicing stress management techniques as well, as stress puts plenty of strain on your gut microbiome. This is especially the case if you’re still building your gut back up to tolerate healthy carbohydrates. Techniques such as proper breathing and meditation will put your body in a relaxed state conducive for healing.
Note, however, that traditional meditation — especially when improperly practiced — sometimes leads to overbreathing and reducing your carbon dioxide levels. This isn’t the ideal environment for healing your gut. Remember, carbon dioxide is important to support your gut microbiome. To mitigate this issue, I recommend you practice slow breathing techniques that will allow carbon dioxide levels to rise, enhancing oxygen delivery to your tissues instead.
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