Many people don’t realize how much the gut microbiome—our community of beneficial bacteria—controls various aspects of our health, including bone mass regulation. The microbiome not only influences gut health but also impacts critical hormones like estrogen, parathyroid hormone, and stress hormones called glucocorticoids, all of which play a significant role in bone health.
Gut bacteria communicate with the body through a complex network of signals. These bacteria bind to nerves, produce chemical messengers, and influence proteins secreted by organs like the liver. These interactions affect bone density and overall bone health. One key compound produced by gut bacteria is butyrate, which plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy bones.
As we age, the health of our bones can deteriorate, to osteopenia or outright osteoporosis. Studies show that individuals with osteoporosis often have a less diverse and less healthy microbiome. Without a healthy microbiome calcium and vitamin D will not work properly to insure bone health. These unhealthy bacteria disrupt bone-building signals and increase bone loss signals, making bone density issues worse.
Antibiotics can disturb this delicate balance. By selectively killing off certain bacteria, antibiotics negatively impact the diversity and health of the microbiome, which in turn can harm bone health. This is why it’s essential to repopulate the microbiome after antibiotic use to mitigate these effects.
Probiotics have been shown in multiple studies to improve bone health, especially when taken alongside antibiotics. By reintroducing beneficial bacteria, probiotics help restore balance in the gut and counteract the bone-damaging effects of antibiotics. While the best type of probiotic is still debated, experts recommend aiming for at least 20 billion CFUs per day to support bone health and overall microbiome recovery.
For extra health benefits, consider making your own yogurt. Rebuilding your microbiome is crucial not just for gut health, but for your entire body’s well-being—especially your bones.
