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In the last ten years, medical science has discovered a really interesting relationship between two systems of the body which at first glance would appear unrelated, the gut and the heart. The connection between the gut and the heart revolves specifically around the microbiome, the trillions of bacteria that live in our intestines. These microbes not only help us digest food, but they also impact immunity, metabolism and even how cholesterol is handled in the body.

In a conversation with The Daily Jagran, Dr. Vikram Jeet Singh, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Aakash Healthcare explained the connection between gut health and heart health.

Link Between Gut Bacteria And Cholesterol

When we think of heart health, cholesterol comes to the forefront. Elevated levels of "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and decreased levels of "good" cholesterol (HDL) are correlated with increased odds for atherosclerosis and heart disease. Recent studies indicate that the gut bacteria balance is important in regulating cholesterol levels. Some gut bacteria can produce valuable products, like short-chain fatty acids which reduce LDL levels and promote vascular health. Alternatively, gut bacteria imbalance, or dysbiosis, can induce inflammation and produce bad byproducts like trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) that has been repeatedly found to contribute to atherosclerosis.

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Diet plays a crucial role in driving this gut-heart axis. High-fibre, fruit, vegetable and fermented food diets support a healthy microbiome, which promotes cholesterol regulation. High red meat, processed foods, and added sugars diets encourage bacterial populations that enhance TMAO and negative lipids. In short, choices made in one's life have a noticeable effect on the gut ecosystem and, overall, cardiac health.

The next important point relates to inflammation. A healthy microbiome supports the immune system's health and maintains inflammation. The condition of chronic inflammation underlies plaque build-up within the arteries, suggesting gut health is not as well recognized yet profound influence on heart disease prevention.

Although still evolving, enough research has emerged for cardiologists to begin incorporating gut health into heart health conversations. In addition to cholesterol-reducing medications, a more comprehensive, holistic approach includes food changes, probiotics or prebiotics and lifestyle changes focused on improving the balance of the gut.

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In short, the gut is a hidden partner of cardiovascular health. We promote gut health by mindfully eating, engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding antibiotics as much as possible. Caring for the gut supports both the digestive system and the heart. In the future, perhaps physicians will assess person-specific microbiomes to help assess and prevent heart disease as part of personalised medicine.