How Maternal Microbiomes Charge Immune Health

Episode #219: How maternal microbiomes charge immune health 

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Exploring the Impact of Maternal Microbiomes on Immune System Function and Overall Health

In my previous episode, I emphasized how a mother’s health lays the groundwork for her children's well-being. Unfortunately, we often overlook the importance of preparing our bodies to ensure robust health for future generations. Today, I want to connect some vital themes that have surfaced recently, highlighting the necessity of prioritizing our microbiome health—even amidst our busy and stressful lives. This issue can no longer be placed on the back burner.

A staggering statistic shared at a recent event caught my attention: 80% of autoimmune diseases occur in women. While this figure pertains to diagnosed autoimmune conditions, many women remain undiagnosed. They may exhibit symptoms indicating they are on the path to developing autoimmune issues but are not receiving the appropriate care to address the underlying immune connections to their chronic health challenges. This gap in care prevents us from effectively prioritizing prevention and repair.

If you are experiencing chronic immune-related issues as a woman, you don’t need a formal diagnosis to recognize that your internal environment requires attention. Trust me, it does.

I spent much of my life grappling with chronic symptoms linked to a dysbiotic gut, which also affected my children. Thankfully, I was able to help them early on, sparing them from the struggles I faced. However, I wish I had understood this connection sooner.

In the fall of 2020, I had an enlightening conversation with Kiran Krishnan, a brilliant microbiologist from Microbiome Labs. He discussed the crucial link between microbiome health and immune function, particularly during the Covid pandemic. If you haven't yet listened to that episode, I highly recommend it—it’s packed with valuable insights. This information is especially relevant for those experiencing 'long Covid,' as it highlights the mitochondrial issues directly tied to the health of your microbiome.

The Crucial Role of a Mother’s Microbiome in Shaping Child Health

A mother’s microbiome plays a vital role in influencing her child's health right from birth. During vaginal delivery, infants are exposed to their mother’s microbiota, laying the groundwork for their own gut microbiome. This initial microbial exposure is essential for developing the child's immune system and overall well-being. Furthermore, breastfeeding enriches the infant's microbiome with beneficial bacteria and prebiotics, which support digestion and immune function.

However, a depleted or imbalanced maternal microbiome can lead to significant health challenges for the child. An unhealthy microbiome can impair immune development, increasing the risk of allergies, asthma, and autoimmune diseases. Digestive issues like colic and constipation may also arise from an imbalanced microbiota. Additionally, a disrupted maternal microbiome can affect the child’s metabolism, raising the likelihood of obesity and metabolic disorders later in life. The repercussions extend to mental health, with potential links to anxiety and behavioral problems. Ultimately, a mother’s microbiome is foundational, influencing her child's health in multiple dimensions and contributing to the rising prevalence of health issues in society today.

In my last podcast episode, I discussed how understanding a mother’s health can provide insights into her children’s well-being. I shared personal experiences with my two kids, illustrating how my health directly correlated with their health challenges.

If I had known what I know now, I would have taken steps to prepare my body better, establishing a solid foundation for my children. Instead, I've been working to remodel their microbiomes to help them avoid these complications, and we’re still on that journey.

Think of it like maintaining a healthy ecosystem. Just as fertile land can be disrupted by monocropping and chemical fertilizers, our microbiomes can become imbalanced. We cannot assume our microbiome is functioning optimally in today's world, which means our children may not be thriving either.

The Importance of Your Microbiome in Energy Management

Last week, my car wouldn’t start. While a quick jump start was an option, I noticed my battery was nearly six years old and unable to hold a charge. Instead of opting for a temporary fix, I chose to replace it—a decision that may seem obvious, but stick with me for a moment.

Just like cars, humans need to maintain their energy levels, or their “charge.” We have multiple "battery packs" within us that work together to keep us functioning smoothly. When one starts to drain, it often borrows energy from another. If this goes unnoticed, we can feel exhausted, lose motivation, and develop chronic symptoms.

The challenge is that we often focus on superficial symptoms, seeking quick fixes that don’t address the root of our energy issues. You can’t simply hack your way back to health; you need to elevate your overall energy levels. Without fully charged "batteries," you risk stalling out.

As I’ve emphasized before, the root causes of our health issues aren’t just about a diagnosis or a malfunctioning part of the body. They stem from an environment that hasn’t supported your core needs and energy requirements.

In my podcast episode, "What is Body Voltage? And Why Does It Matter?", I delve into the importance of maintaining the electrical integrity of your entire system for overall health and vitality.

The Microbiome's Role in Energy Systems

The microbiome is crucial for supporting the body’s energy systems and overall health. Here’s how it contributes:

1. Cell Membranes: These act as capacitors, storing and maintaining voltage across the membrane. Healthy cell membranes help manage energy, allowing cells to communicate and function effectively. Strong membranes control nutrient entry and waste exit, essential for cellular efficiency.

   • The microbiome helps maintain the integrity of cell membranes by producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) through the fermentation of dietary fibers. These SCFAs enhance cellular energy efficiency and support membrane health.

2. Mitochondria: Often referred to as the powerhouses of the cell, mitochondria generate ATP (adenosine triphosphate), crucial for energy transfer in cells. Certain gut bacteria can influence mitochondrial function by producing metabolites that support ATP production.

   • A healthy microbiome enhances mitochondrial efficiency and helps reduce oxidative stress, which is vital for energy production. Oxidative stress occurs when there’s an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants, leading to cellular damage.

3. Nervous System: The microbiome plays a significant role in the gut-brain axis. Beneficial bacteria produce neurotransmitters (like serotonin) and metabolites that support neuronal health and communication, enhancing electrical signaling in the nervous system.

4. Muscles: Muscle tissues store and release energy during contraction and relaxation. The microbiome influences muscle metabolism and recovery. Specific gut bacteria can produce compounds that affect muscle growth, repair, and energy availability during physical activity.

Overall, a balanced and diverse microbiome is essential for the optimal functioning of our energy-related systems, promoting health and vitality. By nurturing our microbiome, we can ensure our “batteries” are fully charged, enabling us to lead energetic, fulfilling lives.

Simply put, if we don't maintain the necessary charge or energy within ourselves, we can't operate at our best.

Quick fixes often miss this essential truth. Relying on temporary solutions is akin to repeatedly jump-starting a car battery when what we really need is a battery that can hold a charge.

If you've ever sought out quick fixes from various practitioners, it’s crucial to reflect on how our understanding of health has evolved over the past century. The term "doctor" actually stems from the Latin word "docere," meaning "to teach." Historically, doctors were educators, guiding us in the care of our bodies, nutrition, and disease prevention.

Unfortunately, this foundational concept has been overshadowed by a medical system that prioritizes "sick care" over wellness. This shift has negatively impacted our collective health. It’s essential for us to seek out practitioners who prioritize teaching and understanding the nuances of health outside the confines of a capitalistic system.

Empowering ourselves with knowledge about our bodies is key to reclaiming our health. We must resist the notion that we need a guru or authority to guide us. Curiosity and self-education are powerful tools in our wellness journey.

This neglect for our bodies extends to our food supply as well. During a recent conference, I noticed a concerning trend: an emphasis on supplements over real food. While supplements have their place, we must not forget the importance of food sourcing and quality. The intersection of agriculture and pharmaceuticals has led to an agenda that often overlooks true human health.

Our microbiomes are suffering as a result. One of the best steps we can take is to educate ourselves about food sourcing. Connecting with local farmers, visiting their farms, and asking questions can significantly improve our food quality. Personally, I’ve integrated this into my lifestyle by building relationships with local farms, growing my own food, and supporting initiatives like the Bionutrient Food Association.

Antioxidants play a crucial role in our health, particularly in combating free radicals. For instance, while blueberries are known for their antioxidant properties, not all blueberries are created equal.

Understanding that we may not always have access to the most nutrient-dense foods, we must strive to support our microbiome in various ways. For more insights, check out my previous episodes on the seven pillars of health: sun, water, air/breathing, movement, connection/love, and purpose.

Prioritizing Women's Mental Health: Simple Tips for Well-Being

This past week, I conducted polls on my Instagram stories regarding women's health issues, and the overwhelming responses highlighted concerns around mental health and mood. It's clear that many of us could benefit from simple, actionable tips to enhance our well-being. After all, we all deserve to embrace the mantra: "It’s a Joy To Be Me."

One key insight is the crucial role our gut plays in neurotransmitter production. Key microbes in our microbiome help synthesize GABA, a neurotransmitter that contributes to mood regulation. Many women reported experiencing mood swings, anxiety, and a diminished enjoyment of activities they once loved—signs that their microbiome may be struggling.

During the health event I recently attended, I was reminded about the powerful hormone oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone" or "bonding hormone." Produced in the brain, oxytocin fosters feelings of connection and affection. It is released during moments of intimacy, such as hugging, cuddling, childbirth, and breastfeeding. This hormone strengthens emotional bonds and encourages trust, helping to reduce stress.

Dr. Anna Cabeca aptly described oxytocin as the "mother of all hormones" and the "QUEEN BEE." In a world heavily influenced by excess cortisol due to chronic stress, it’s no wonder that professional cuddlers have emerged to help people reconnect through physical touch.

Interestingly, Pitocin, a synthetic form of oxytocin, is commonly used in medical settings to induce or strengthen labor during childbirth. While Pitocin mimics natural oxytocin, it is specifically manufactured for clinical use.

In light of this, who doesn’t crave more quality hugs? Instead of reaching for a glass of wine or other stress relievers at the end of a long day, consider embracing the power of long, heartfelt hugs. These moments of connection can significantly enhance your mood and well-being.

Another simple yet effective tip involves understanding anxiety and its connection to oxygen levels in our cells. Chronic stress triggers our fight-or-flight response, leading to shallow breathing and muscle tension around the chest and diaphragm. This results in reduced oxygen intake, affecting our cells' functionality and contributing to feelings of fatigue and anxiety.

The microbiome plays a pivotal role in our stress response and mood regulation. A healthy microbiome can help manage stress and promote well-being, while an unhealthy one may contribute to anxiety and mood disorders. Therefore, when you feel anxious, check in with your breath. Learning proper breathing techniques can enhance oxygen intake, benefiting both your cells and overall mood. If you struggle with breathing issues, such as mouth breathing or nasal congestion, addressing these concerns is essential for improving your overall health.

By nurturing your breath and microbiome, you can cultivate a balanced state of well-being, leading to a happier, healthier life.

I hope you found this episode insightful in understanding your body and identifying areas for personal growth. Taking charge of your health from the ground up is crucial for long-term wellness.

If you're seeking deeper support for your health challenges and resonate with the concepts shared today, I invite you to explore how you can work with me. The microbiome is central to my approach, alongside mineral balancing, as we uncover the connections that impact your well-being.

Investing in high-level support can clarify your wellness journey and help you focus on what truly matters. If you're ready to commit to your health, learn more HERE. 

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