Nutrition expert Dr. Long Hung’s guide to cultivating your gut health

Dr. Long Hung graduated from Zhejiang University, China, with a Ph.D. in Nutrition. He currently serves as the Director of the Microecology and Nutrition Health Laboratory at the Institute of Food Science, Zhejiang Provincial Academy of Agricultural Sciences. He is a Standing Committee Member of the Prebiotics and Health Branch of the Chinese Nutrition Society. With over a decade of dedicated research in the field of probiotics, he has contributed to breakthroughs in human gut health.

Why is gut health so important?

In the professional field, we often refer to the gut and digestive system as the body’s “second brain.” It possesses a complex nervous system independent of the brain, the enteric nervous system. The gut and brain engage in close, bidirectional communication via the “gut-brain axis.” Simultaneously, the gut produces a vast array of neurotransmitters. Approximately 90 per cent of the body’s serotonin and about 50 per cent of its dopamine are synthesized in the intestines. This directly explains why gastrointestinal discomfort often coexists with emotional issues such as anxiety and depression. Furthermore, the gut serves as the “cornerstone” and “control center” for our overall health. About 70 per cent to 80 per cent of the body’s immune cells reside in the gut. The intestinal mucosa represents the largest interface between the internal body and the external environment, such as food and bacteria.

Do you think it’s easy for the general public to protect their gut health?

I believe it’s not only not difficult but also doesn’t require immense effort. If you’re willing to invest a little money, daily intake of probiotic supplements and increased dietary fiber can significantly improve digestive function, even alleviate issues like insomnia and suboptimal health. However, based on our past research cases, I’d like to emphasize that most diseases related to gut health can be prevented by altering lifestyle habits. For instance, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, replacing highly processed foods with fresh fruits and vegetables, and engaging in regular exercise, these changes don’t require significant financial investment. While I cannot claim this applies to all diseases without exception, the benefits of modifying daily habits to improve the gut environment are undoubtedly immensely valuable for the body.

Is there a gap between the public perception and the professional understanding of the concept “gut health”?

There is a significant gap between the public perception and the professional understanding of “gut health”. Public perception often simplifies “gut health” to the absence of constipation and diarrhea, or simply “good digestion.” Professional understanding, however, recognizes it as a complex and dynamic ecosystem that is integral to digestion, immunity, neurology and even mental health.

What are the current challenges in gut health and probiotic research?

There are two main challenges, in my opinion. First, our research tools still have limitations. We often rely on animal studies, like in mice, but their gut systems are different from humans. What works in them doesn’t always work in us. Second, and this is a big one, everyone’s gut is unique. Your gut microbiome is like your fingerprint. Studies show that when people take the same probiotic, it only successfully “settles in” for about 60 per cent of them. For the other 40 per cent, their guts simply reject it. So, whether a probiotic can actually take root and work for you really depends on the individual.

So, how should we go about choosing the right probiotics for ourselves?

I think the key is to become a smart label-reader. Always go for reputable brands, I mean the ones with a long history, that specialize in microbial research or are even available through medical channels. At the same time, make it a habit to check the ingredient list. Pick products with minimal additives, free from unnecessary sugars and common allergens. Some products also include prebiotics such as FOS or inulin, which basically act as “food” for the probiotics, helping them settle in and work more effectively in your gut.

What might the next generation of probiotics look like?

I like this question very much. Future probiotics will be highly personalized. We’ll likely start with a simple test to see what bacteria your gut is missing, and then create a custom blend tailored just for you, almost like getting a prescription. It’s like carefully replanting specific flowers in a garden, rather than just randomly scattering seeds. Additionally, many of these new probiotics will originate from healthy human guts, such as Akkermansia, which are akin to the original residents that have been living in our bodies for thousands of years.

What advice would you give to people in North America?

Data shows adult obesity in North America is an issue. I believe this is closely linked to local dietary and lifestyle habits. Personally, I’d suggest everyone consider trying intermittent fasting. It gives your gut breathing room to rest and repair. And if the budget allows, adding a quality probiotic supplement can be very helpful. Remember, nothing matters more than your health.

Looking ahead, Dr. Long and his team are focusing on combining probiotics and prebiotics to rewrite the playbook on chronic disease management.

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