On this International Women’s Day, we celebrate the strength and resilience of women worldwide yet, amidst the hustle and bustle of their daily lives, women often overlook a crucial aspect of their health: the gut. Recent research has unveiled a fascinating connection between gut health and bone density, especially among women. With women at a greater risk of developing osteoporosis than men, understanding how a healthy gut can be a game-changer for women’s bone health is important.
In an interview with Zarafshan Shiraz of HT Lifestyle, Dr Debojyoti Dhar, Co-Founder and Director at Leucine Rich Bio, shared, “The gut is home to trillions of microorganisms, collectively known as the gut microbiota. This complex ecosystem plays a pivotal role in various physiological functions, including immune regulation, nutrient absorption, and even bone health. Recent studies have shed light on the intricate relationship between gut health and bone density, particularly in women. Several studies have shown that gut microbiota play an important role on bone metabolism (the intricate balance between bone formation and bone dissolution).”
Talking about Gut Dysbiosis and the role of Short-Chain Fatty Acids, she said, “Disbalance in the microbiota profile in the gut is called dysbiosis. Research has shown that dysbiosis in the gut can lead to loss of bone density. One of the key mechanisms through which the gut microbiota influences bone health is the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). SCFAs are byproducts of the fermentation of dietary fiber by gut bacteria. These compounds have been shown to enhance calcium absorption, reduce inflammation, and promote bone formation. Research indicates that higher levels of SCFAs are associated with increased bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal women. This underscores the importance of maintaining a healthy gut microbiota to support optimal bone health.”
Revealing why bone density is important, Dr Debojyoti Dhar said, “BMD is a measure of the amount of minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus, present in bone tissue. Higher BMD indicates greater bone strength and density, reducing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis. Maintaining a healthy BMD is crucial for overall bone health and mobility, especially as women age and face hormonal changes that can affect bone density.”
Did you know menopause affects bone health? Dr Debojyoti Dhar informed, “Menopause is a critical period in a woman’s life when hormonal changes can significantly affect bone health. Estrogen, a hormone that declines during menopause, plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density. As estrogen levels decrease, women become more susceptible to bone loss and osteoporosis. However, emerging evidence suggests that the gut microbiota may modulate estrogen metabolism, potentially influencing bone health during menopause.”
Talking about gut microbiome profiling, she said, “Given the profound impact of gut health on bone density, knowing one’s gut microbiota offers scope for the management of bone-related issues. One way to gain insights into the composition and diversity of the gut microbiota is through gut microbiome profiling tests like BugSpeaks. These tests analyse the genetic material of gut microbes, providing valuable information about the overall health of the gut microbiota. By identifying any imbalances or deficiencies in the gut microbiota, women can take proactive steps to improve their gut health and, in turn, support their bone density. This may include dietary modifications, probiotic supplementation, and lifestyle changes that promote a healthy gut environment.”
On this Women’s Day, let’s recognise the significant impact of gut health on women’s bone density and overall well-being. By taking charge of gut health, understanding their gut microbiome through profiling and adopting gut-friendly habits, women can maintain strong bones throughout their lives. Source: HT
How gut health helps in improving bone density among women
