How a healthy gut microbiome could support heart health
A connection between certain microbes in the gut and positive effects on heart health has been discovered by researchers[1] in the US and published in Cell Host and Microbe.
It’s no secret that the gut microbiome plays an essential role in all aspects of our health. However, it has recently been discovered that certain microbes reduce levels of uric acid in the blood. If these build up, they form potentially damaging crystals in the blood that promote inflammation correlated to atherosclerosis of the arteries. This is a risk factor for cardiac events. Whilst more research is needed, finding a way to potentially prevent risk factors for cardiovascular disease could be very exciting.
Atherosclerosis is a common condition that develops when a sticky substance called plaque builds up inside the arteries, also creating inflammation.
Major study links low zinc intake to high blood pressure risk during pregnancy
The mineral zinc is key for growth and development in babies and children but also plays a key role in over 300 different enzyme reactions throughout the body. A new study[2] has connected low levels of zinc in pregnant women with pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) which in turn, increased the risk of low-birth-weight babies. The proposed mechanisms which contribute to the condition include oxidative stress, immune dysfunction, and blood vessel regulation.
The author’s found those most at risk were primarily consuming a plant-based, low zinc diet. Zinc is especially essential during the second half of pregnancy and insufficiency may be affecting the health of both mother and baby. Whilst zinc is found in some plant-based foods including legumes, seeds, and nuts, it’s rich in fish (oysters are especially high in zinc), red meat and dairy produce.
Low levels of vitamin D associated with symptoms of long COVID
A recent study[3] published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found a correlation between low levels of vitamin D and long COVID symptoms, six months after sufferers had been discharged from hospital. The study was particularly looking at neurocognitive symptoms. Many long covid sufferers have reported long term ‘brain fog’ and this study may provide further insights.
Vitamin D’s main role in the body is the regulation of calcium within the bones and teeth. However, it’s now been found to play an essential role in immune function supporting antiviral and antimicrobial immune responses.
Indeed, previous research studies have also found low levels of vitamin D were associated with poorer outcomes of Covid sufferers. In this study blood levels were found to be between 14.7 ng/mL and 20.6 ng/mL. Levels should ideally be over 60 ng/mL.
[1] Eric M Brown et al. Gut microbiome lipid metabolism and its impact on host physiology. Cell Host Microbe 2023 Feb 8;31(2):173-186
[2] Lesia O Kuriak et al. Alterations in antioxidant micronutrient concentrations in placental tissue, maternal blood and urine and the fetal circulation in pre-eclampsia. Int J Mol Sci 2023 Feb 10;24(4):3579
[3] Luigi di Filippo et al. Low vitamin D levels are associated with long COVID syndrome in COVID-19 survivors. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism published 13th April 2023
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