We always share information around the microbiome and its impact on reproductive function. Recently there was a newly published study looking at the connection between a specific digestive disorders and recurrent pregnancy loss.
Impaired intestinal barrier integrity, commonly referred to as 'leaky gut', has been found to cause a chronic inflammatory response and may contribute to the risk of various disorders. Leaky gut can increase the absorption of bacterial endotoxins from pathogenic gut microbes and heavy metals (i.e. lead). Both of these products are potential risk factors for the risk of miscarriages.
Improving Intestinal Barrier Integrity
A newly published randomized clinical trial found that administering a prebiotic formula (not probiotics) to the treatment group improved intestinal barrier integrity and saw a decline in the concentration of lead as well as an improvement in additional markers of intestinal barrier dysfunction in the blood samples from Patients treated with the prebiotic formula compared to the control group.
The researchers hypothesized that the prebiotics helped improve the gut microbiome by promoting the growth of beneficial gut microbes.
Limitations of the Study
The study did not evaluate for changes in the miscarriage risk after treatment. It only assessed for changes in the risk factors mentioned above. Further research evaluating for risk reduction for spontaneous miscarriage is still needed.
This article is being shared as educational content and is in no way a replacement for medical advice or medical care, it is advised that anyone concerned about their Health should speak with their Naturopathic Doctor. Please discuss with your healthcare provider and only make changes to your medications regimen if recommended by your doctor and under their guidance and supervision.
Reference:
Tian, Y., Pan, Z., Lan, L., Chang, Y., Zhao, T., Fu, Z., Wu, S., Deng, T., Cao, M., Wang, W., Bi, Y., Yang, R., Yang Lee, B. J., & Liu, Q. (2023). Amelioration of intestinal barrier function and reduction of blood lead level in adult women with recurrent spontaneous abortion by a novel product of dietary fiber mixture, holofood. Journal of Health, Population and Nutrition, 42(1).
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