#448: Turning Sugar into Fiber, Hangover Science, and the Truth About Genetically Modified Probiotics | Zack Abbott
Today, I’m joined by Zack Abbott Phd, a biotech innovator who took an unconventional path—from pharmaceutical science to the front lines of consumer health. Instead of following the well-worn route of drug development, Zack set his sights on bringing cutting-edge biotechnology directly to people, creating products designed not just for convenience, but for genuinely transforming our relationship with microbiology.
In our conversation, Zack pulls back the curtain on two fascinating probiotics. One helps break down toxic alcohol byproducts so you can feel better the day after drinking; the other turns everyday sugar into fiber, aiming to shore up one of the most underappreciated (and unsexy) pillars of longevity: gut health. We dig into the real science of engineering microbes, why genetically modified organisms are so misunderstood, and how innovation in this space could support metabolic health, resilience, and a more diverse microbiome.
If you’re curious about what’s happening at the intersection of longevity and microbiome science—or if you’ve ever wondered whether the next big leap in health will come from our tiny bacterial partners—this episode promises fresh insights, plain-spoken science, and some myth-busting about what it means to responsibly harness biotech for better living.
Anyone who uses code NATNIDDAM will get 10% off their first order! Visit https://zbiotics.com/NATNIDDAM.
Learn more from Zack Abbott below:
Website: https://zbiotics.com/NATNIDDAM
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zbiotics/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zbiotics
What We Discuss:
Podcast introduction and host background ... 00:00:00
Consumer impact versus traditional drug industry ... 00:06:06
Gap and opportunity for biotech in consumer space ... 00:06:42
Engineered probiotics: not hacks but new relationships with biology ... 00:07:19
Scientific and public responses to engineered probiotics ... 00:09:03
Technology behind genetically engineered probiotics explained ... 00:17:39
Bacillus subtilis: why it’s the ideal delivery vehicle ... 00:27:08
Sugar-to-fiber product mechanism and rationale ... 00:32:58
Importance of fiber quantity and diversity for gut health ... 00:42:26
Sugar-to-fiber: capabilities and limitations ... 00:54:06
Keto/carnivore implications and who benefits from sugar-to-fiber ... 00:57:51
Misunderstandings and realities about GMOs in consumer biotech ... 01:00:02
Regulation, safety, and honest claims in biotech supplements ... 01:07:01
Current science and future of the microbiome in longevity ... 01:12:14
Personalization, AI, and microbiome-directed health ... 01:13:10
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Ultimate GI Repair by LVLUP Health — a research-backed blend of peptides, zinc carnosine, and gut-support compounds designed to strengthen your gut lining, improve digestion, and support resilience from the inside out; head to lvluphealth.com and use code NAT for 15% off
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For Transparency:
Some episodes of the Longevity With Nathalie Niddam podcast are supported by partners whose products or services may be discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation or earn a minor commission if you purchase through affiliate links at no extra cost to you. All opinions shared are those of the host and guests, based on personal experience and research, and do not necessarily represent the views of any sponsor. Sponsorships do not imply medical endorsement or approval by any healthcare provider featured on this podcast.