The importance of the gut microbiome in lowering high cholesterol – the link between gut and heart health

The gut microbiome, which is the totality of microorganisms living in the intestines, plays a central role in maintaining overall health. In recent years, research has confirmed that the microbiome affects not only digestion and the immune system but also cardiovascular health. One of the most important findings is the connection between the microbiome and blood cholesterol levels. In this article, we will explore how gut health can impact LDL cholesterol.

The gut microbiome consists of trillions of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microorganisms that live in the intestines. This ecosystem directly influences digestion, nutrient absorption, and the body's immune defense.A healthy microbiome is diverse and balanced, which means that beneficial bacteria dominate the number of harmful microbes.

When the gut microbiome is imbalanced (dysbiosis), it can lead to metabolic disorders, inflammatory conditions, and even the development of cardiovascular diseases. Recent studies have shown that there is a strong connection between gut health and cholesterol regulation.

Cholesterol is a fatty substance that is essential for cell membranes, hormone production, and many biological processes.However, high LDL cholesterol ("bad" cholesterol) levels can lead to atherosclerosis and the development of cardiovascular diseases.

The gut microbiome influences cholesterol level management in various ways:

• Cholesterol is used to form bile acids in the liver.

• Beneficial gut bacteria can modify bile acids, preventing them from being reabsorbed into the bloodstream and instead allowing them to be excreted with feces. This forces the liver to use more cholesterol to produce new bile acids, which lowers LDL cholesterol.

• Intestinal bacteria break down soluble fibers, such as beta-glucan, and produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), such as butyrate, acetate, and propionate.

•  Propionate can directly reduce cholesterol production in the liver, leading to a decrease in LDL cholesterol.

• Butyrate reduces low-grade inflammation, which can promote the development of heart disease.

• Chronic low-grade inflammation is associated with high cholesterol levels and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.

• A healthy gut microbiome reduces inflammation by improving the integrity of the intestinal mucosa and preventing the entry of harmful substances, such as LPS endotoxins, into the bloodstream.

• Less inflammation means lower oxidized LDL cholesterol, which reduces plaque buildup in the arteries.
  

• Certain gut bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species, can break down cholesterol or bind it in the gut, reducing its absorption back into the bloodstream.

• This helps keep LDL cholesterol levels in check and promotes overall heart health.

Beta-glucan is a soluble dietary fiber found particularly in oats and barley. Its significance for the well-being of the gut microbiota and cholesterol reduction is undeniable.

• Beta-glucan acts as a prebiotic, meaning it feeds the beneficial bacteria living in the gut.

• It increases the number of bacteria that produce butyrate and propionate, which improves gut health and reduces inflammation.

• Promotes the growth of Akkermansia muciniphila bacteria, which strengthens the intestinal mucosa and reduces the entry of harmful substances into the bloodstream.

  
  

•  It reduces LDL cholesterol by binding bile acids and promoting their excretion from the body.

•  It improves the integrity of the intestinal mucosa, which reduces low-grade inflammation and prevents the oxidation of LDL.

•  It increases the production of short-chain fatty acids, which affect cholesterol metabolism and reduce its synthesis in the liver.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has approved the health claim that at least 3 g of beta-glucan per day can lower blood LDL cholesterol.This confirms its position as an effective nutrient in supporting heart and vascular health.

A healthy gut microbiome influences blood cholesterol levels in many ways. It regulates bile acid metabolism, produces short-chain fatty acids, reduces inflammation, and may prevent cholesterol absorption. An imbalanced gut microbiome, on the other hand, can increase cholesterol oxidation and promote inflammation, which raises the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Beta-glucan is one of the most effective natural ways to support the gut microbiome while lowering LDL cholesterol. Its daily intake supports gut health, reduces inflammation, and helps manage cholesterol levels naturally.

Do you want to improve your heart health naturally? Invest in the well-being of your gut and ensure adequate intake of beta-glucan – it is one of the most effective ways to promote overall wellness.