What is Gut Health? Separating Science from Wellness Trends

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Manuel Kleiner to explore all things gut health. Dr. Kleiner breaks down how trillions of bacteria work together to help us digest food, protect our health, and shape the way our bodies function. We dive into his research on how different protein sources, like eggs, red meat, and plant proteins, can alter the microbiome and impact long-term health. He also shares science-backed advice for supporting gut health, the importance of dietary fiber diversity, and why popular trends like the “protein craze” may not be as beneficial as they seem. Tune in to hear why diet diversity, microbial interactions, and patience in adapting your gut are central to maintaining a healthy microbiome. Learn more about Dr. Kleiner’s work below:NC State Bio Page: https://provost.ncsu.edu/people/mkleine/ The Kleiner Lab: https://kleinerlab.cals.ncsu.edu/ Check out the following resources to learn more about today’s topic:Article: Dietary protein source alters gut microbiota composition and function: https://academic.oup.com/ismej/article/19/1/wraf048/8089909 Article: Dietary protein from different sources escapes host digestion and is differentially modified by gut microbiota: https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlehtml/2025/fo/d5fo01132a Article: Assessing the diversity and functional profile of the “microbial proteome” in fermented foods: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.11.19.689333v1.abstract Article: Source of dietary protein alters the abundance of proteases, intestinal epithelial and immune proteins both directly and via interactions with the gut microbiota: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.01.09.632171v1 The Science That Feeds Us podcast brings together extension agents, faculty specialists, and scientists for interdisciplinary conversations on emerging trends in agriculture and the food system. Designed to inform and engage both professionals and curious consumers, we highlight the stories behind the science to build deeper connections to food and agriculture research. The Science That Feeds Us is supported by NC State Extension and NC State University.Edited and Produced by: Bhavisha GulabraiMusic: Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here.