PROPER GUT CARE MIGHT JUST PUT YOU OFF HYPERTENSION

Research has found exactly how low dietary fiber causes a leaky gut, allowing microbes to pass into the body and increase inflammation.

WHAT ARE DIETARY FIBERS ANYWAY?

Dietary fibers are non-digestible carbohydrates found mostly in plant foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. They pass relatively intact through our digestive system and into the colon, where they serve as food for beneficial gut bacteria. These bacteria ferment the fiber, producing short-chain fatty acids that nourish colon cells and help maintain gut barrier function.

It promotes gut health in several ways: it adds bulk to stool, helping prevent constipation; it feeds beneficial bacteria, supporting a diverse and balanced gut microbiome; it slows digestion, which helps regulate blood sugar; and it binds to cholesterol and toxins, assisting their removal from the body. Regular fiber intake is associated with reduced risk of digestive disorders, colorectal cancer, heart disease, and improved overall immune function.

HOW IT HELPS GUT HEALTH AND STOPS HTN

A recent study at Monash University has enhanced our understanding of the connection between gut health and hypertension. Researchers discovered that two intestinal cell receptors (GPR41 and GPR43) are critical to this relationship. When activated by dietary fiber, these receptors trigger anti-inflammatory processes. Inversely, a little amount of dietary fiber can cause gut cells to become permeable, resulting in widespread inflammation.

According to lead researcher Dr. Rikeish Muralitharan, these findings suggest that systemic inflammation, which contributes to numerous disease processes, may begin in the gut. “GPR41 and 43 are at least partially responsible for the blood pressure-lowering and cardio-protective effects of a high fiber diet,” he explained.

The study demonstrates that inadequate activation of these receptors—mimicking a low-fiber diet—increases gut permeability, allowing microbial components to enter the bloodstream. This triggers inflammation in key blood pressure-regulating organs like the kidneys, ultimately leading to hypertension.

Researchers suggest these discoveries could lead to innovative pharmaceutical treatments, expanding the options available to GPs for managing hypertension. Clinical trials exploring medications based on this research have already begun. Although early identification and lifestyle changes continue to be the foundation of high blood pressure management, prescribed medications remain an essential component of treatment.

RACGP (The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners) Specific Interests Obesity Management Chair Dr. Terri-Lynne South explained that GPs often encounter a perceived conflict between medication and non-medication approaches, but this research demonstrates the value of combining both strategies. “Looking at this research, I think ‘excellent, we need to implement both approaches immediately,'” she told newsGP.

Dr. South expressed enthusiasm on two fronts: “First, there’s an indication of a potential mechanism for developing future hypertension medications. Second, I’m pleased to see confirmation of the link between non-medication interventions—specifically increasing dietary fiber intake—not just for improving gut health, but directly for addressing hypertension.”

TO read more, open the link below: