How Does Gut Health Affect Food Allergies?

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Welcome to the Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Innovations podcast. In our lates episode, we’re talking about the gut microbiome and what it has to do with food allergies.

Co-hosts Payel Gupta, MD, a board-certified allergist and immunologist, and Kortney, a food allergy advocate, sit down with Carina Venter, PhD, a registered dietitian and researcher. Together, they break down what the microbiome is, how gut health connects to the immune system, and what families can do right now to support a healthier gut for better food allergy management.

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Listen to Microbiome & Food Allergies Podcast

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This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Any mention of brands is also informational and not an endorsement. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical questions or concerns.

Key Takeaways About Gut Health and Food Allergies

You may have heard the word “microbiome” but wondered what it actually means for your family. This episode breaks down what the gut microbiome is and how it plays a role in the development of food allergies.

  • What the microbiome actually is. The microbiome is a community of bacteria living in your gut. When it is healthy and diverse, it helps keep your immune system calm.
  • The connection between gut bacteria and food allergy. Children with food allergies are found to have lower levels of two key bacteria. That gap may affect how the immune system responds to food.
  • Leaky gut and ultra-processed foods. Leaky gut is a term that gets overused, but new research on emulsifiers in ultra-processed foods shows there may be real science behind it.
  • Should you take a probiotic? Not all probiotics are the same. Dr. Venter explains which strains have the most research behind them and why diet variety may matter more than any supplement.
  • Practical steps for families. Small changes to what you eat can make a real difference. Dr. Venter shares simple, affordable steps families can take right now.

Episode Timestamps From our Podcast About Food Allergies and the Microbiome

02:45 – What is the microbiome?

07:45 – What a healthy gut microbiome does

08:40 – Leaky gut explained

11:17 – Ultra-processed foods and gut health

14:38 – The microbiome’s role in food allergy development

17:06 – How to increase good bacteria in your gut

19:42 – What to look for when buying probiotics

22:01 – Good fats and gut health

24:34 – Why probiotics can cause bloating

25:44 – How often to take probiotics

27:42 – How to know if your gut microbiome is healthy

32:57 – Yogurt and probiotics

More Resources About Gut Health and Food Allergies