Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Akkermansia muciniphila is a commensal bacterium found in the human gut, notable for its ability to degrade mucin in the intestinal mucus layer. In recent years, scientific interest has grown regarding its potential therapeutic roles in various diseases, including Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Several animal studies and some early-phase human research suggest that A. muciniphila abundance is associated with improved gut barrier function, reduced inflammation, and modulation of the immune response. In mouse models of colitis, supplementation with live A. muciniphila or its pasteurized form has been shown to reduce disease severity, decrease inflammatory markers, and enhance mucus production, all of which are beneficial in IBD. Some human studies have observed that IBD patients tend to have a reduced abundance of A. muciniphila compared to healthy controls, supporting the hypothesis that restoring its levels may be beneficial. However, robust, large-scale randomized controlled trials in humans are still lacking, and the current evidence is primarily preclinical or from small pilot studies. As a result, while the scientific rationale for using A. muciniphila in IBD is promising, the strength of evidence is moderate at best (3 out of 5). Further well-designed clinical trials are needed to establish its efficacy and safety before it can be widely recommended as a treatment or adjunct for IBD.

More about Akkermansia muciniphila
More about Inflammatory Bowel Disorders

Other ingredients used for Inflammatory Bowel Disorders

Other health conditions supported by Akkermansia muciniphila

Products containing Akkermansia muciniphila

Metagenics Akkermansia Co.™ Healthy Weight with Glucose Control
Metagenics UltraFlora Triplebiotic