05/08/2026
Your gut is home to roughly 38 trillion microbes — more than the number of cells in your entire body. 🧬
New research is shining a light on something fascinating: it's not just which bacteria live there. It's what they produce that seems to matter most for healthy aging.
Swipe through for the science → 👉
Some of what stood out to us:
🔹 Centenarians across multiple countries share a distinctive, more diverse gut microbiome compared to younger adults
🔹 Short-chain fatty acids (acetate, propionate, butyrate) — made when your gut bacteria ferment fibre — fuel your colon cells and support a healthy gut barrier
🔹 Butyrate alone can provide up to ~80% of your colon cells' energy needs
🔹 Even fermentation gases like hydrogen act as antioxidants, helping neutralise free radicals
The through-line? A fibre-rich, whole-food diet feeds the microbes that make these beneficial compounds. Ultra-processed foods do the opposite.
It's a good reminder that supporting your gut isn't about chasing one "hero" ingredient — it's about consistently feeding the ecosystem that's quietly working for you every day. 🌱
Save this for your next grocery run, and share with someone who'd find this as fascinating as we did 💛
What's one gut-friendly habit you're consistent with? Tell us below 👇