The gut microbiome is shaped by environmental factors, lifestyle, and diet, resulting in distinct regional variations. While research on the gut microbiome has advanced rapidly—particularly in Western populations—studies focusing on Asian microbiomes remain scarce.As interest in personalized preventative healthcare grows, there is increasing demand for nutrition solutions and nutraceuticals tailored to Asian phenotypes. Diet plays a key role in gut health, influencing metabolic function and the prevention of modern diseases. However, the interactions between Asian diets, prebiotics, postbiotics, and the gut microbiome are still not well understood.

This study aims to investigate how nutritionally diverse Asian diets impact the gut microbiome and metabolic health. Specifically, it will examine factors influencing postprandial glycemic and lipemic responses and the acute effects of dietary changes over a 9-day hybrid diet intervention. By deepening our understanding of these interactions, this research will contribute valuable insights to support the development of precision nutrition strategies for Asian populations.

This study aims to explore how the gut microbiome is linked to hormonal changes during perimenopause and how it may influence symptom severity, such as hot flashes, mood changes, and joint aches. While severe symptoms are often treated with hormone replacement therapy, there is growing interest in self-managed solutions for mild to moderate symptoms.

By surveying and sampling middle-aged Asian women in Singapore, we hope to identify gut microbiome biomarkers that could potentially lead to new, innovative supplements for perimenopausal symptom relief.

Study Details:

• Eligibility: Women aged 40-55, of Asian descent, not on any long-term medication, residing in Singapore for the past 6 months, and not on antibiotics in the past 3 months.

• What’s Involved: Completion of a few surveys and a fecal sample submission.

• Compensation: $30 + a simple microbiome report

At AMILI, we are collaborating with UK-based Sequential Skin Ltd (SSL) to develop an innovative microbiome testing kit that goes beyond traditional skin health assessments. This next-generation test uniquely analyzes both gut and skin microbiomes, offering a more complete picture of how these ecosystems interact—an approach known as the gut-skin axis.‍

Why does this matter? Research suggests that our gut and skin microbiomes are closely linked, influencing skin conditions such as inflammation and sensitivity. By studying microbial signatures from both the gut and skin, this test aims to provide deeper insights into skin health and personalized recommendations for better skincare. Using advanced sequencing technology, our project seeks to identify key microbial markers linked to inflammatory skin conditions. The goal is to develop an easy-to-use, science-backed testing kit that empowers individuals and clinics with precise, actionable insights for healthier skin. As part of this collaboration, we will be running a study to recruit participants for sample collection.

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to research and help advance scientific understanding of the gut-skin connection. Stay tuned for details on how you can participate!