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The Gut-Brain Axis: Understanding the Microbiome (S6:E47)

The gut microbiome is a fascinating area of human health that we have just started to better understand in the last two decades. With the arrival of PCR sequencing and advanced PCR techniques, we’ve been able to characterize the microbiome by looking at what organisms live there, how they vary by location and diet and how things like exposure to antibiotics influence the microbiome. We’re beginning to understand the relationship between the microbiome and health, from how these bacteria affect human metabolism and immune system development to their association with autoimmune diseases.

Listen to a discussion on the microbiome

In this episode, Jaime Belkind-Gerson, MD, joins us to explore the extent of our understanding of our microbiome, including the relationship between our nervous system and the bacteria in our gut. 

Dr. Belkind-Gerson is a pediatric gastroenterologist at Children’s Hospital Colorado, an expert in neurogastroenterology and gastrointestinal motility and an associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. 

In this episode, our expert discusses:

  • Understanding the gut as a sensory organ 
  • Stimulus pathways and neuroimmune interactions between the gut and brain
  • Relationships between the microbiome and disease outcomes 
  • The effect of diet on the microbiome
  • The relevance of prebiotics and probiotics
  • The importance of diversity in the microbiome
  • Consequences of antibiotics on the gut

Listen here or on your podcast platform of choice, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts.

Digestive Health at Children’s Colorado

At Children's Hospital Colorado, we're committed to helping all healthcare professionals improve the quality of life for children with digestive health conditions. Get the latest in gastroenterology and GI surgery information to better your practice. 

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