Explains the concept of the gut-brain axis, and its implications for health and disease. Describes how microbes and their metabolites communicate with the body and the brain. Explains how the microbiome-gut-brain axis influences the development of neurodegenerative, neuropsychiatric, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Describes how microbial metabolites regulate immune and metabolic pathways in the body, and how this may impact risk of allergies, autoimmune diseases, obesity and diabetes. Explains how the ecology of the oral microbiome impacts both gut and systemic health; discusses implications for modern-day oral healthcare. Lists potential microbial and gut health disruptors, as well as therapeutic strategies to improve gut and brain health (to become “ecosystem engineers”). Describes ways in which the highly complex gut-brain scientific research has been oversold and misinterpreted by the lay press. Identifies red flags of “pseudoscience” to become a healthy skeptic. Describes how the information in this course can be utilized to improve patient care and patient outcomes.

Identifies clinical signs & symptoms of inflammation. Describes the connections between inflammatory processes and chronic illness. Describes the role of inflammation in specific illnesses such as heart disease, COPD, diabetes, arthritis, and dementia. Lists practical strategies to reduce levels of inflammation in clinical practice. Explains the rationale for good dental prophylaxis and skin care in patients with chronic illness. Describes how the information in this course can be utilized to improve patient care and patient outcomes. Describes, for this course, the implications for dentistry, mental health, and other health professions.

Compares and contrasts the different forms of diabetes. Explains why the number of cases of Type 2 diabetes is expanding worldwide. Describes how gut health impacts metabolic health and diabetes risk. Outlines potential complications of diabetes as well as appropriate interventions. Recognizes how insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes are linked to other conditions such as cognitive decline, depression, cancer sleep disorders, and periodontal disease. States the rationale for individualized blood sugar targets. Outlines the specific strategies to prevent, manage, and potentially reverse Type-2 diabetes, including lifestyle, surgical, and pharmacologic interventions. Describes how the information in this course can be utilized to improve patient care and patient outcomes. Describes, for this course, the implications for dentistry, mental health, and other health professions.