Gut health is a hot topic lately — and for good reason! Scientists are constantly discovering new things about what's happening inside our bodies, like this tiny little helper in our intestines that might be the key to a happy gut. Meet Akkermansia muciniphila, the gut bacteria that's changing the way we think about digestion.

What is Akkermansia?

This friendly bacteria is kind of a big deal in the world of digestive health. While it was only discovered in 2004, it has since been featured in 3,000+ scientific publications, and scientists are already calling it a "keystone strain" because it's just that important for a balanced gut. And unlike some of the other bacteria in your gut, this one actually helps strengthen the lining of your intestines which is critical for overall health. 

Sadly, many of us don't have enough of it. Things like age, travel, stress, not eating enough fiber, and even those rounds of antibiotics we've taken can really knock down our levels.

How does Akkermansia support gut health?

One of the coolest aspects of Akkermansia is its unique relationship with your gut lining. Ever heard of "leaky gut"? It's a condition where the lining of your intestines becomes, well, a bit leaky. People with low levels of Akkermansia may have a thinner mucus layer in their gut, which could indicate a weakened gut barrier function.

This clever bacteria actually strengthens your gut lining by feeding on something called mucin—the "glue” that holds everything together in your gut. When you have enough Akkermansia, it encourages your body to make more of this protective mucin, keeping your gut strong and healthy.

A strong gut lining is crucial for overall digestive health. It acts as a barrier, preventing harmful substances from entering the bloodstream while allowing beneficial nutrients to pass through. When the gut lining is compromised, it can lead to various digestive issues and also potentially affect other areas of your health.

The benefits of taking a probiotic

While Akkermansia naturally occurs in the gut, some people may benefit from taking it as a probiotic supplement. And the benefits go beyond just a healthy gut. 

A stronger gut means a happier you.

A healthy gut lining means fewer digestive issues and better health overall.

Leaky gut? No problem!

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Akkermansia is an anaerobic strain naturally found in the GI tract and comprises up to 4% of intestinal bacteria in the healthy gut microbiome. However, many people are low in Akkermansia or don’t have it at all! The most direct way to get Akkermansia is as a daily live probiotic, available exclusively from Pendulum in the U.S.

Akkermansia can actually help seal those leaks in your gut lining, preventing unwanted substances from wreaking havoc on your health.

Trying to manage your weight?

Taking Akkermansia could be a great addition to your routine. Research suggests it can support healthy weight management when combined with a balanced diet and lifestyle. “Akkermansia increases GLP-1 production, which helps maintain a healthy weight,*” Colleen Cutcliffe, CEO and co-founder of Pendulum. *based on preclinical studies 

How can I increase my Akkermansia levels?

While many healthy habits are essential for overall gut health, they don't necessarily guarantee an increase in Akkermansia levels. That's where probiotic supplements come in. But keep in mind that not all probiotics are created equal. 

Boosting your levels is actually a bit tricky. This bacteria is super sensitive to oxygen, which makes it challenging to produce in supplement form.

Luckily, Pendulum has found a way to grow live Akkermansia in an oxygen-free environment so that you can get a direct dose of this gut-friendly bacteria, and they are the first to accomplish this. 

Consider probiotic supplements

If you're already eating a healthy diet and managing stress, adding a probiotic supplement, like Pendulum Akkermansia, can take your gut health to the next level.

Ways to take a holistic approach to your gut health

Everyone's body is different — so it's all about figuring out what makes your gut happy! In addition to exploring supplements, we’ve got some tips for proper gut care:

Feed your good bacteria

Prioritize eating a diverse diet. Load up on fruits, veggies, and whole grains. Don't be afraid to try new things and get adventurous in the kitchen! Your gut (and your taste buds) will thank you. Pendulum also offers a Polyphenol Booster that maximizes the benefits of their Akkermansia probiotic.

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Stay hydrated

Water keeps things moving smoothly in your digestive system and helps your gut bacteria thrive. Plus, it's fantastic for your skin!

Manage stress through relaxation or exercise

Stress can wreak havoc on your gut, so find more ways to relax. Prioritize "me time" and indulge in activities that bring you joy. Whether it's a hobby, spending time with loved ones, or simply doing nothing, give yourself permission to unwind and recharge.

Catch all those Zzz’s

Sleep is when your body repairs and restores itself, including your gut. Plus, a good night's sleep helps reduce stress, which is a major bonus for your gut health. So, make sleep a priority and create a relaxing bedtime routine.

Limit processed foods and alcohol

Instead of that greasy bag of chips, try some crunchy veggies with hummus. Craving something sweet? Reach for a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts. Try drinking less alcohol, or opt for a non-alcoholic beverage instead. Small changes can make a big difference! Pendulum Akkermansia also increases GLP-1 production, the hormone that sends a signal to your brain that you’re full, which can help reduce cravings and snacking.

Feeling inspired to give your gut some love? Fantastic! Take the first step by learning more about Akkermansia and talking to your doctor about whether it's right for you. Always listen to your body, and trust your gut. (Sorry, we had to.)

Blair Sharp is a freelance writer who lives in Minnesota with her husband and son. Her words have been published in various publications, including Parents, SheKnows, The Bump, and Insider. You can find her watching reality TV and sharing too many reels with her friends when she's not writing. To connect with Blair, find her on LinkedIn and Instagram, or head to her website www.blairsharp.com

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