Gut Dysbiosis and Its Impact on Patient Wellness

​In this lecture, Functional and Metabolic psychiatry expert Dr. James Greenblatt will explore the complex relationship linking gut and brain, and what research tells us about the role of gut dysfunction in the pathogenesis of mental illness. He will examine the roles of the gut microbiota (the trillions of microbes inhabiting the digestive tract) as pertain to neurotransmitter synthesis and nutrient absorption, and examine common contributors to dysbiosis. The talk will then segue to Clostridia overgrowth leading to toxic HPHPA accumulations, and the mechanisms through which HPHPA disrupts dopamine metabolism.

​Finally, Dr. Greenblatt will discuss how the Organic Acids Test (OAT) can be utilized to assess HPHPA levels in psychiatric patients and inform personalized, evidence-based regimens to eliminate dysbiosis and regain good gut-brain health.

​By the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to:

• ​Define the terms “gut-brain axis,” “gut microbiota,” and “dysbiosis”

• ​Discuss significance of the gut microbiota as pertains to neurotransmitter synthesis

• ​Identify two or more factors that can cause or contribute to gut dysbiosis

• ​List two or more behavioral indicators of elevated HPHPA

• ​Explain the mechanisms through which HPHPA disrupts dopamine metabolism

• ​Discuss the clinical utility of the Organic Acids Test

• ​Understand how probiotic supplementation can alleviate dysbiosis and restore healthy gut function