Enjoying processed and fast foods today, but they may impact gut health tomorrow.
ISSUES related to gut health have surged in Malaysia and it’s primarily due to the modern lifestyle and reliance on processed foods.
However, scientists have begun to pay closer attention to the microorganisms in the gut and their impact on overall health, paving the way for new solutions to improve gut health and prevent disease.
As researchers gain a better understanding of the importance of gut microbes and the vital role they play in preventing diseases, gut health warrants immediate attention and action.
Without urgent intervention, the consequences for public health could be severe and far-reaching.
Monash University Malaysia School of Pharmacy deputy head (research) Assoc Prof Dr Chong Chun Wie shares his insights on the growing gut health crisis in Malaysia.
Stomach pain is often the first indicator that something is amiss in the gut.
Microbiome matters
“Health issues like diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol are on a stark rise in the country, and a growing body of evidence points to a possible link to gut health,” says Dr Chong.
According to some health experts, good health has a lot to do with a “well-balanced microbiome”, which refers to the collection of beneficial bacteria and other microorganisms in the digestive system. When the microbiome balance is disrupted, it can lead to a host of health issues, ranging from increased stress levels to chronic diseases.
“Addressing gut health is then essential for preventing these chronic conditions and improving the overall quality of life,” Dr Chong explains.
Common symptoms like bloating, diarrhoea, nausea and stomach pains are the first indicators that something is amiss in the gut. These indicators might suggest that the gut microbiome is out of balance, a condition known as dysbiosis.
While minor imbalances can sometimes correct themselves with time and proper care, persistent symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying issue that requires medical attention.
Research has linked an unhealthy gut to the development of metabolic disorders like obesity and type-2 diabetes. Additionally, chronic gastrointestinal conditions associated such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and leaky gut syndrome can cause long-term damage if not properly managed.
“An unhealthy gut doesn't just affect the normal functions of your internal organs — it can also significantly impact your skin and weight.
“Studies have shown that what’s in the gut can contribute to fat accumulation, making it more difficult to lose weight.
“Meanwhile, a gut with a higher composition of pro-inflammatory microbes may lead to skin issues like acne, eczema and premature ageing,” says Dr Chong.
An imbalanced gut could also affect how your body handles stress. The gut and brain are closely linked and often referred to as the “gut-brain axis”. An unhealthy gut can disrupt this connection, leading to heightened stress responses, poor sleep quality and an increased risk of stress-related disorders.
A fiber-rich diet boosts gut health and overall well-being.
Listen to your gut
To support a healthy microbiome, the focus should be on proper nutrition, including a diet rich in fibre, probiotics and prebiotics that targets gut health and also supports overall wellbeing. Reducing the intake of processed foods, food additives, sugars and unhealthy fats is also essential.
Taking these proactive steps not only fosters a healthy gut but also enhances overall well-being. The benefits extend far beyond digestion — improving skin health, aiding weight management, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases, ultimately leading to a healthier and more vibrant life.
