For Taiwan’s rapidly aging population, the role of gut health in disease prevention and longevity is gaining increasing recognition. Studies continue to uncover new insights into how the microbiome influences digestion in addition to immune response, mental clarity, and even skin health. By investing in research and developing evidence-based nutritional solutions, Amway Nutrilite plays a pivotal role in the advancement of personalized health care.
“Comprehensive research has confirmed a strong correlation between gut microbiota and the development of chronic diseases, such as obesity and metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and even sleep and mental health,” says Dr. Yosep Ji, cofounder and CEO of Human Effective Microbes (HEM) Pharma, a biotechnology firm specializing in gut microbiota science. “Therefore, gut microbiota is a key factor in regulating metabolism, immunity, and neurological well-being.”
Although cardiovascular health, mobility, and cognitive function receive significant attention in Taiwan, gut health – an equally crucial factor in aging well – often goes overlooked. Sometimes referred to as the body’s “second brain,” the gut is home to trillions of microorganisms that make up the microbiome – an intricate ecosystem responsible for processing nutrients, reducing inflammation, and producing neurotransmitters essential for mood and cognitive function.
“One of the major challenges in optimizing gut health is that every individual’s microbiome is unique. Factors such as genetics, lifestyle, diet, and environmental exposure shape the composition of gut bacteria, making it difficult to apply a one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition and supplementation,” says Dr. Ji. To tackle this challenge, Amway Nutrilite has partnered with microbiome startup HEM to develop targeted solutions focusing on the relationship between gut microbiota and long-term health outcomes.
Amway Nutrilite and HEM have adopted advanced microbiome analysis technology that allows researchers to better understand how an individual’s gut microbiota interacts with specific nutrients. By leveraging this data-driven approach, they aim to move beyond generic dietary recommendations and develop more tailored solutions for supporting gut health.
“HEM offers an innovative ex-vivo culture system, known as PMAS (Personalized Pharmaceutical Meta-Analytical Screening), which simulates an individual’s microbiome response to various probiotics, prebiotics, and phytochemicals in a controlled environment,” says Dr. Ji. “Through PMAS, we can now predict and optimize microbiome responses, bringing us closer to the future of precision gut health management.”
While cutting-edge innovation is transforming the future of microbiome-based health solutions, daily habits remain the foundation of a well-balanced gut. Prebiotic-rich foods, such as bananas and whole grains, and phytochemical-rich foods like berries and pomegranate, provide essential nutrients that fuel the growth of gut-friendly bacteria and offer additional support by promoting microbial diversity. Regular consumption of probiotic-rich fermented foods such as yogurt, kimchi, and miso helps replenish beneficial bacteria and improve digestive function.
“Modern dietary patterns often include ingredients that negatively affect the microbiome,” says Dr. Ji. “Processed foods containing artificial preservatives and refined sugars have been linked to an increase in harmful bacteria. Excessive antibiotic use, while sometimes medically necessary, can also disrupt microbial balance by eliminating beneficial bacteria along with harmful ones.”
Hydration, physical activity, and overall stress management can further affect microbiomes, he says. Moderate exercise supports gut microbiota diversity by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and reducing inflammation while staying properly hydrated aids digestion and ensures that nutrients are efficiently absorbed by the body.
Lifestyle factors such as chronic stress and irregular sleep patterns further influence gut health, as elevated cortisol levels and disrupted circadian rhythms have been shown to impact microbial composition. “Mindfulness practices such as meditation and deep breathing exercises can help lower stress levels, reducing the impact of cortisol on the gut-brain axis,” says Dr. Ji.
Recognizing the growing need for comprehensive gut health strategies, Amway Nutrilite is working to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical wellness solutions. Beyond offering nutritional products that support microbiome balance, the company is committed to raising awareness about the importance of gut health as a key factor in long-term vitality. Through consumer education, product innovation, and ongoing collaboration with microbiome experts, Amway Nutrilite is helping individuals take proactive steps toward better health.
“Amway has invested millions into microbiome research, conducted countless clinical trials, and become, I believe, the number one company in the world in building microbiome databases through its fierce dedication,” says Dr. Ji. “By 2024, Amway had 47,000 microbiome databases, which is an achievement I have never witnessed from another company. By combining scientific expertise with a commitment to holistic health, our collaboration is shaping the future of wellness – one that starts from within.”
