The Gut-Brain Link That Could Change How We Understand Parkinson’s

Sarkis Mazmanian, PhD, a professor of microbiology at Caltech, explains how gut bacteria communicate with the brain and may influence behavior. The conversation centers on why the gut has become an important focus in Parkinson's research, including the observation that digestive problems can appear years before movement symptoms. Mazmanian discusses what mouse studies suggest about the microbiome and autism, and what still needs to be learned in people. The episode also examines whether commercial microbiome tests and probiotics can deliver on their promises, and offers practical ways to support gut health through food, sleep, movement, and managing stress.