In this interview, Alphons Phillips, director of scientific affairs at Sabinsa, discussed how aging impacts gut health, the growing understanding of gut‑related pathways, and developments in science‑backed nutritional solutions.

Key insights discussed:

• The gut microbiome tends to lose diversity with age, while pro‑inflammatory species increase — a process known as dysbiosis.
• These changes may lead to impaired digestion, reduced nutrient absorption, weakened immunity, and increased intestinal permeability (“leaky gut”), which can contribute to chronic inflammation and age‑related conditions.
• Supporting gut health is not only about digestion but also about sustaining energy levels, immune function, and overall vitality.

Research highlights:

• Gut‑brain axis: Microbial activity influences stress response, mood, and cognitive function.
• Gut‑skin axis: Imbalances are linked to inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, acne, and psoriasis.
• Emerging directions: Personalized probiotic therapies, microbiome sequencing, and integrative approaches like psychodermatology.

Sabinsa’s solutions:

• DigeZyme^®: A multi‑enzyme complex aiding digestion and nutrient absorption.
• Lactospore^®: A stable probiotic (Heyndrickxia coagulans MTCC 5856) that survives stomach acid and restores balance.
• FenuFibers^®: A prebiotic that nourishes beneficial bacteria.
• PoZibio^®: Postbiotic formulations delivering health benefits without live organisms.
• Curcumin C3 Complex^®: Anti‑inflammatory turmeric extract supporting gut barrier integrity and immune modulation.

Phillips emphasized the importance of clinical validation, bioavailability research, and sustainable sourcing in developing products that address gut health from multiple angles.