Microbiome Medics

Join Dr. Siobhan McCormack as she welcomes one of the top early-life microbiome scientists in the field, Professor Chris Stewart. Discover the origins of your gut microbiome, the biological superpowers of breast milk, and how lab-grown "organoids" are uncovering surprising ways to protect preterm babies.What We Cover:The Genesis of You: How birth mode and early feeding shape our microbial foundations.Inside the Stewart Lab: Using lab-grown human "organoids" to study host-microbe interactions in real-time.The Magic of HMOs: Why mothers produce complex sugars (Human Milk Oligosaccharides) that feed gut microbes instead of the baby.The "Good" Clostridium: Groundbreaking research on a specific Clostridium perfringens strain that thrives on HMOs to protect preterm infants from gut diseases.Probiotics & Preemies: Navigating FDA regulations and the future of personalized medicine in neonatal care.About Professor Stewart leads human microbiome research at Newcastle University. His lab combines computational biology with innovative wet-lab human organoid models to study global health issues, focusing primarily on the early-life gut microbiome and protecting vulnerable infants.Connect with the Stewart Lab:Newcastle University ProfileGoogle ScholarTwitterNewcastle Neonatal Nutrition and NEC Research (N4)Scientific References & Further Reading:Stewart CJ, et al. (2018). Temporal development of the gut microbiome in early childhood from the TEDDY study. Nature, 562(7728):583–8.Chapman JA, et al. (2026). Clostridia from preterm infants metabolize human milk oligosaccharides to suppress pathobionts and modulate intestinal function in organoids. Nat Microbiol, 1–20.Masi AC, et al. (2021). Human milk oligosaccharide DSLNT and gut microbiome in preterm infants predicts necrotising enterocolitis. Gut, 70(12):2273–82.Beck LC, et al. (2022). Strain-specific impacts of probiotics are a significant driver of gut microbiome development in very preterm infants. Nat Microbiol, 7(10):1525–35.UNICEF UK: Breastfeeding in the UKThis podcast is brought to you in collaboration with the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.Disclaimer:The content in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

In this insightful episode, Dr. Sheena Fraser welcomes back Dr. Anastasia Theodosiou and introduces Baroness Natalie Bennett to discuss the Consumer Products (Control of Biocides) Bill. They unpack the hidden dangers of unregulated antimicrobial chemicals found in everyday items, from toothpaste to treated textiles, and the urgent need to protect our microbiomes from this "chemical cocktail". The trio discusses the critical distinction between medical antibiotics and consumer biocides, advocating for a shift from a "war on microbes" to a system that prioritizes planetary and human health.Key Topics:Defining biocides and distinguishing them from regulated medical antibioticsThe concept of "microbiotoxicity" and the impact of disinfectants on oral and gut healthThe environmental consequences of biocide runoff and the rise of antimicrobial resistanceWhy we need systemic regulation rather than relying solely on individual consumer choicesYou can find out more about the Women's Environmental Network at https://www.wen.org.uk/This podcast is brought to you in collaboration with the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.Disclaimer:The content in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

From the viral moment on The Traitors to the biology of the "silent but deadly," this episode is an unashamed deep dive into flatulence. Drs Siobhan and Sheena are joined by Julie Thompson, Lead Dietitian at Guts UK Charity, to break the stigma around passing wind. We discuss what normal gas looks like, why fiber makes us farty (and why that's a good thing!), and the truth about the Low FODMAP diet for IBS sufferers. Plus, we answer the important questions: Do spiders fart? And do charcoal underpants actually work?Featured Guest:Julie Thompson is a Gastroenterology Specialist Dietitian with over 16 years of experience supporting people with digestive diseases. She has a particular interest in disorders of gut-brain interaction, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).A leading voice in her field, Julie contributed to the British Dietetic Association’s (BDA) dietary guidelines for IBS and has delivered the BDA’s Low FODMAP diet training to dietitians across the UK. She currently serves as the Information Manager at the charity Guts UK and sits on the BSG Gut Microbiota for Health Expert Panel.References and resources:Guts UK Charity: https://gutscharity.org.uk/Book: Fartology by Stefan GatesBook: Does It Fart? by Nick Caruso & Dani RabaiottiThe Physics of Farts: Ancalle, D., et al. (2021). "Physics of flatulence." The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America.What is a "Normal" Amount of Gas? Modesto, A., et al. (2021). "Meta-Analysis of the Composition of Human Intestinal Gases." Digestive Diseases and Sciences.Microbes & Metabolism: Rowland, I., et al. (2018). "Gut microbiota functions: metabolism of nutrients and other food components." European Journal of Nutrition. (See the excellent section on intestinal gas & microbes!)Carb Intolerance: Fernández-Bañares, F. (2022). "Carbohydrate Maldigestion and Intolerance." Nutrients.The "Bean Study": Winham, D., & Hutchins, A. (2011). "Perceptions of flatulence from bean consumption among adults in 3 feeding studies." Nutrition Journal. (Evidence that the gas often goes away after a few weeks!)Symptoms in the UK: Thomson, C., Garcia, A., & Edwards, C. (2021). "Digestive symptoms, diet and demographics in UK adults." Proceedings of the Nutrition Society.Global Gas Survey: Palsson, O.S., et al. (2025). "Gas-Related Symptoms in the General Population: Prevalence, Impact and Associated Factors." Neurogastroenterology & Motility.This podcast is brought to you in collaboration with the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.Disclaimer:The content in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

In this episode, Dr. Sheena Fraser is joined by Monica 'Mo' Wilde, an expert forager, research herbalist, and award-winning author of The Wilderness Cure. Mo discusses her remarkable year-long experiment, detailed in her 'Wildbiome Project', where she lived exclusively on wild, foraged foods to explore its effects on her gut microbiome. The conversation covers the rules of her challenge, the incredible biodiversity of her diet, which included over 300 plant species, and the significant health changes she experienced, such as effortless weight loss and shifts in key gut bacteria. Analyzing her microbiome results throughout the seasons, they explore the profound impact of a biodiverse, ancestral diet on gut health, inflammation, and overall well-being, highlighting a stark contrast to modern eating habits and underscoring the benefits of reconnecting with nature's pantry.This podcast is brought to you in collaboration with the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

In this episode, Dr Siobhan McCormack is in conversation with Professor John Alverdy from the University of Chicago, a Professor of Surgery and a pioneer in microbiome research. They explore the crucial link between gut health and surgical outcomes, particularly in addressing post-operative infections and complications.The conversation highlights the significance of the gut microbiome in healing, revealing that many infections may stem from the patient's own flora. The episode also tackles the implications of widespread antibiotic use and the need for prudent stewardship to protect beneficial gut microbes.This podcast is brought to you in collaboration with the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.Disclaimer:The content in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

In this episode of Microbiome Medics, Dr. Sheena Fraser welcomes Dr. Nihan Maron, a veterinary doctor and microbiologist, to discuss the essential connections between pet and human microbiomes. Dr. Nihan highlights how pets, especially dogs, enhance our microbial diversity and health, while emphasizing the importance of mindful antibiotic use and the role of probiotics. The conversation also addresses pet nutrition, advocating for diets that reflect natural eating habits, and the risks of processed foods. They conclude with the "One Health Approach," reinforcing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. This episode encourages pet owners to take an integrated approach to health through nurturing their pets’ microbiomes.This podcast is brought to you in collaboration with the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.Disclaimer:The content in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

Buckle up for a fascinating journey through microbiome history! Dr. Siobhan McCormack welcomes the esteemed Professor Martin Blaser for an episode that travels through pivotal moments in microbiome science using a "Back to the Future"-inspired lens. Hear their engaging discussion, complete with time-traveling sound effects, as they explore Professor Blaser's career, the impact of antibiotics, and the critical importance of our microbial partners.This podcast is presented in collaboration with the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.Disclaimer:The content in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

In this episode of Microbiome Medics, Dr. Siobhan McCormack is joined by Professor Egija Zaura from the Academic Centre of Dentistry in Amsterdam to explore the significance of the oral microbiome. They discuss why the oral microbiome warrants attention alongside the gut microbiome, emphasizing its role as the body’s first defense against pathogens.The conversation highlights the complex interactions within the oral cavity and the consequences of dysbiosis on oral health, linking it to systemic issues like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. As practical applications are discussed, Professor Zahra shares the importance of saliva, dietary choices, and the implications of oral hygiene products on microbial diversity. The hosts encourage proactive oral health practices, translating intricate research into actionable insights for listeners.Professor Egija Zaura has a degree in dentistry. She is University Research Chair Professor in Oral Microbial Ecology at ACTA. Her research topics span from biofilm models and clinical studies to advanced molecular technologies in oral microbial diagnostics and complex sequencing data analyses. Her current principal interests lay on oral microbial ecology at health and disease, and translating this fundamental knowledge to the clinical practice.This podcast is presented in collaboration with the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.Disclaimer:The content in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

In this episode of the Microbiome Medics Podcast, Dr. Sheena Fraser is joined by citizen scientist Martha Carlin, who shares her personal journey into the world of Parkinson’s disease research. After her husband John was diagnosed in 2002, Martha utilized her background in accounting and systems analysis to investigate the complex connections between the gut microbiome and Parkinson’s symptoms. She emphasizes the role of dietary changes, including organic foods, and discusses the innovative p...

In this episode of the Microbiomedics podcast, Dr. Sheena Fraser and Dr. Siobhan McCormack share insights from the BSLM conference in Newcastle. They highlight the vibrant discussions on community health initiatives and the role of young advocates, like those from "Bite Back," in combating ultra-processed foods. The doctors emphasize the urgent need to address adolescent mental health and the impact of diet on well-being, advocating for holistic health education in schools. They encourage lis...

Dr. Siobhan McCormack interviews James Kinross, a colorectal surgeon and microbiome researcher. James discusses the potential of robotic surgery and its precision, the link between the microbiome and colorectal cancer, and the importance of preserving gut health. They explore probiotics, evidence-based treatments, and the role of Fusobacterium nucleatum in colorectal cancer. James emphasizes the need for microbial conservation for disease prevention and offers practical advice from his book "...

In this episode of the Microbiome Medics Podcast, we are joined by Lee Holdstock from the Soil Association, UK's biggest organic certifier, to explore the vital connection between soil health and human microbiomes. Our discussion highlights the benefits of organic farming practices for soil health, biodiversity, and ultimately, human well-being. We delve into the efficiencies of nature in organic farming, emphasizing the need to transition towards sustainable practices for healthier soil and ...

Don't miss the first of two episodes on the role of the microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA) in chronic pain.30% of the UK population suffer from chronic pain and pharmacological options have proved disappointing and even downright dangerous . Could harnessing the gut microbiome be part of new approaches for this prevalent condition? Our tireless Microbiome Medics cover the MGBA basics, marvel at brain microglia and astrocytes, and identify chronic inflammation as a major player in chronic pain. ...