We interviewed Ms. N, who underwent a fecal microbiota transplant.
Despite suffering from stomach discomfort caused by a busy lifestyle including night shifts and irregular eating habits, we heard about the circumstances that led to the decision to undergo a fecal microbiota transplant (FMT), as well as the subsequent changes in daily life and diet.
Profile
Disease Name: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Transplant Period: August 22, 2024 – September 5, 2024
Number of Transplants: 3-transplant course
Transplant Medical Institution:
Shirotani Bio Wellness Clinic Internal Medicine & Orthodontics Kobe Sannomiya
(Formerly: LOOKS Ashiya Clinic)
Interviews
First, what prompted you to consider getting a transplant?
Mr. N: I’ve always had poor digestive health, with excessive gas and bloating causing constant discomfort. Working night shifts also contributed to irregular eating and lifestyle patterns, which I believe played a role.
I’d always been interested in gut flora, so when I quit my job due to COVID and had more time, I came across Dr. Shirotani’s article and decided to make an appointment.
You thought there might be a connection between your gut flora and your own discomfort, didn’t you? I don’t think it was as common knowledge back then as it is now, but what do you think?
N: That’s true. But I’ve been seeing it more often on social media and such, so it feels more familiar than it used to.
費用もそれなりにかかりますが、実際に移植を決めた理由は何ですか？
Mr. N: The fact that Dr. Shirotani’s office doesn’t require pre-treatment and takes thorough infection control measures was a major factor in my decision. Plus, the convenience of being able to receive treatment easily was also appealing.
If there’s a chance it could improve things, I decided to give it a try—even though the cost is certainly not cheap—with the mindset that it’s like buying a car.
The lack of pre-treatment was a major factor, wasn’t it?
Mr. N: Well, I did hear about treatment methods at other university hospitals, but when I heard they “reduce gut bacteria with antibiotics,” I felt a bit resistant and thought it would be better not to do that.
移植後の変化はいかがでしたか？
Mr. N: I’ve been feeling less stomach discomfort than before. However, my significantly changed lifestyle might also be a factor. I used to work shifts that included night duty, but now I’m in a less stressful environment where I can live at my own pace. I’ve always been someone who reacts sensitively to stress, but it’s hard to tell whether this is due to the transplant’s effect or the change in environment. After the transplant, my flora balance test indicated an increase in bacterial diversity.
Are there any dietary precautions you take after the transplant?
Mr. N: I’ve been paying more attention to my diet lately. I’m trying to cut back on sweet breads. I try to eat fish as much as possible, but it’s only about twice a week. When I do eat meat, I choose leaner options like chicken or soy products. Rather than actively seeking out good foods, I focus on avoiding the bad ones. My problem is that there are snacks in the break room at work, and I can’t help but reach for them.
It’s also a good idea to request healthy snacks like sweet potatoes. What specific foods do you eat?
N: For breakfast, I often have a soy milk latte made with black sesame koji and soy milk, along with a banana. For lunch, I try to eat light meals like pre-cooked vegetables, root vegetables, and chicken breast. Since Dr. Shirotani recommended eating root vegetables, I make them in advance. At dinner, I eat freely and aim to have one or two good eggs per day.
Finally, how about your sleep?
N: The thing is, there are so many things I’ve wanted to do but haven’t been able to get around to, and I end up staying up late. I’ll be careful since the last thing I’m holding when I fall asleep is often my smartphone. Controlling my sleep time is definitely a challenge going forward.
The golden hours for gut bacteria are said to be from 10 PM to 2 AM. Quality sleep is crucial for repairing your body’s cells and maintaining a healthy daily life. I believe you’re already taking good care of your sleep and diet, so you’re definitely heading in the right direction. I hope you’ll continue to live in harmony with your gut bacteria.
What Mr. N is doing to improve his gut health
・Changing jobs has improved my daily routine and reduced my stress levels.
・I’m trying to cut back on sweet breads.
・I try to eat fish twice a week.
・I choose lean meats like chicken.
・I’m making batch-cooked meals using the root vegetables that were recommended.
Finally.
Mr. N found an article by Dr. Shirotani, Director of LOOKS Ashiya Clinic, and decided to visit the clinic. Although he felt the cost was high, he resolved to undergo the transplant because no pre-transplant procedures were required, thinking, “If there’s a chance for improvement, it’s worth trying.”
After the transplant, she reported no longer experiencing abdominal discomfort. However, since she also switched from a workplace with night shifts to a less stressful environment, the degree to which the effects are felt likely varies significantly depending on individual differences and changes in lifestyle habits. On the other hand, she mentioned becoming more conscious of her diet and sleep patterns following the transplant.
Treatment outcomes vary from person to person, so improvement is not guaranteed. However, as in Mr. N’s case, combining treatment with lifestyle changes may be key to achieving better results.
If you are considering a fecal microbiota transplant, it is advisable to first consult a specialist physician and make your decision based on your own physical constitution and lifestyle circumstances for peace of mind.
Mr./Ms. N, thank you very much for your cooperation with the interview.
Important Notes Regarding Testimonials
- This article is based solely on the personal experiences of patients and their families and does not guarantee the effectiveness or course of treatment.
- The progression of symptoms, response to treatment, and degree of recovery vary from person to person, and not all patients will achieve the same results.
- When selecting or implementing a treatment method, be sure to consult thoroughly with your primary physician or specialist. Make your decision after comprehensively considering your own medical condition, constitution, lifestyle, and other factors.
- The treatment details described in this article (transplant method, course, duration, cost, etc.) are specific to a particular patient’s case and may not apply identically to all medical institutions or situations.
- This testimonial is published at the request of the patient and their family, with care taken to ensure individuals cannot be identified.
