When it comes to gut health, Akkermansia muciniphila is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about bacteria in the microbiome world. Discovered relatively recently, this unique strain thrives in the mucus lining of the intestinal wall and has shown impressive potential in supporting metabolic health and even aiding with weight management.
What is Akkermansia muciniphila?
Akkermansia muciniphila is a naturally occurring bacterium found in the human gut. It plays an essential role in maintaining the integrity of the gut lining by feeding on mucin the mucus produced by the gut wall. While this might sound counterproductive, it actually stimulates the body to produce more mucus, helping to strengthen the gut barrier.
Why Is It Gaining So Much Attention?
Recent research has linked higher levels of Akkermansia to a variety of health benefits, particularly in metabolic conditions. Individuals with obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, fatty liver disease, and even irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) tend to have lower levels of Akkermansia muciniphila.
On the other hand, those with higher levels often show better metabolic profiles, including:
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Improved insulin sensitivity
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Reduced fat mass
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Increased energy expenditure
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Enhanced gut barrier function
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Lower markers of inflammation
Animal studies, especially in mice, have consistently shown that Akkermansia supplementation helps reduce body weight gain, improve glucose tolerance, and regulate appetite by modulating hunger hormones. It also boosts the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like acetate and propionate which are key compounds that support gut health, reduce inflammation, and regulate energy metabolism.
What About Human Studies?
One of the most notable human trials was conducted by Depommier et al. (2019). In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, participants with metabolic syndrome were given Akkermansia muciniphila supplements for three months. The group taking the supplement experienced:
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An average weight loss of 2.27 kg
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Reduced liver inflammation
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Improved insulin sensitivity
Importantly, these benefits occurred without any changes to diet or physical activity, suggesting a direct role of the bacteria in metabolic regulation.
How to Support Akkermansia Naturally
While direct supplementation is available in some regions, there are natural ways to help your body support the growth of this beneficial bacterium:
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Eat more polyphenol-rich foods: Apples, berries, pomegranate, and grapes contain plant compounds that help nourish Akkermansia.
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Consume prebiotic fibre: Foods like flaxseed, chicory root, and inulin-rich vegetables can promote its growth.
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Limit processed foods: A whole-food, fibre-rich diet appears to create a more favourable environment for Akkermansia.
Some research also suggests that combining Akkermansia with fibre may help the strain colonize and thrive more effectively.
Is It Right for Everyone?
Despite the promising findings, Akkermansia muciniphila isn't ideal for every gut. Since it's a mucin-degrading bacterium, it may not be beneficial for individuals with compromised gut lining such as those with active inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including colitis or severe IBS. In such cases, the delicate gut barrier may not tolerate increased mucin degradation.
Additionally, studies involving bariatric surgery patients did not show significant benefits, suggesting that the severity of obesity and existing gut dysbiosis could influence the effectiveness of supplementation.
Final Thoughts
While human research on Akkermansia muciniphila is still emerging, the early results are encouraging. Its role in weight regulation, metabolic health, gut barrier integrity, and inflammation reduction makes it a compelling candidate for further study and a potential ally in your gut health toolbox.
However, as with any supplement or intervention, it's important to work with a healthcare provider to assess whether it's the right fit for your individual health needs, especially if you’re managing complex gut or metabolic conditions.
Reference:
Depommier C, Everard A, Druart C, Plovier H, Van Hul M, Vieira-Silva S, Falony G, Raes J, Maiter D, Delzenne NM, de Barsy M, Loumaye A, Hermans MP, Thissen JP, de Vos WM, Cani PD. Supplementation with Akkermansia muciniphila in overweight and obese human volunteers: a proof-of-concept exploratory study. Nat Med. 2019 Jul;25(7):1096-1103. doi: 10.1038/s41591-019-0495-2. Epub 2019 Jul 1. PMID: 31263284; PMCID: PMC6699990.
About the author:
Hi, I’m Abinaa, a fourth-year naturopathic medical student at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine with a deep-rooted passion for natural healing, inspired by my South Asian upbringing. Through this blog, I hope to share my journey, explore topics in holistic health and wellness, and offer simple, thoughtful insights that support a more balanced and mindful way of living.
