11/03/2025
How is your Gut Health linked to cholesterol levels?
Cholesterol is broken down into bile acids in the liver (yes, the liver has an important part to play too!) and released into the gut to help digest fats. Certain gut bacteria help to convert bile acids which regulates cholesterol absorption. Imbalanced gut bacteria (dysbiosis) can lead to poor bile metabolism, increasing cholesterol levels in the bloodstream.
Addressing gut imbalances is not only important for cholesterol levels but has an important part to play in nearly every system in the body, from hormone imbalances to the immune system, inflammation, metabolism, and mental health. Working on signs and symptoms or using Functional stool testing for a comprehensive analysis of your gut microbes can help address the root cause.
To keep your gut happy, below are some simple steps:
✅ Increase Prebiotic Fiber:
It supports beneficial gut bacteria and short chain fatty acid production.
◾ Eat flaxseeds, chia seeds, oats, onions, garlic, asparagus, and green bananas.
✅ Consume Fermented Foods & Probiotics:
It helps restore healthy gut flora.
◾ Eat sauerkraut, kimchi, yogurt, kefir, and take probiotic supplements (especially L. reuteri).
✅ Support Bile Acid Metabolism:
It helps in cholesterol elimination.
◾ Take digestive bitters, artichoke extract, and beetroot.
✅ Reduce Processed Foods & Sugar:
It may help to prevent inflammation and gut imbalances (dysbiosis).
◾ Avoid refined carbohydrates, artificial sweeteners, and trans fats.
✅ Manage Stress & Sleep:
It may help support gut integrity and cholesterol balance.
Practice breathwork, meditation, and get 7-9 hours of sleep.
Are you suffering from digestive- or skin issues, hormononal imbalances, high cholesterol or any other health challenges? Want to find out more? DM 🍏
Recent research in mice has uncovered an intricate host-microbiota partnership in regulating bile acid production, helping to prevent excessive accumulation and maintain metabolic balance.
