The GUT is the
gateway to HEALTH.
Food and microbiome
hold the key.
Welcome to Gut Bites!
As a university gastroenterologist studying how food & microbes impact metabolism immunity & mind, my aim is to translate cutting edge research into insights that are easy to digest & grounded in science.
Explore a range of topics from prebiotics to postbiotics, fiber to polyphenols, and butyrate to GLP-1. Try a science-based food scanner that scores the food you eat and tracks how its quality impacts your gut health, appetite, energy, mood, & more.
Here’s to feeding our gut microbiomes, powering metabolism & fueling our best.
Chris Damman MD, MA
University of Washington
Clinical Associate Professor of Gastroenterology
Columbia University
Graduate of College of Physicians and Surgeons
The Gates Foundation
Former Gut Health & Microbiome Lead
Media & Podcasts
Gut Health Seminar – UW Medicine –
Gut Health Digests
by Chris Damman, MD on February 18, 2026 at 4:44 am
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Gut Health Definitions
Microbiome
The genetic complement of microorganisms inhabiting an environment, especially a site on or in the body (i.e. gut).
Prebiotic
An undigested food ingredient (i.e. fiber or polyphenol) that can promote the growth of a healthy microbiome.
Fiber
A carbohydrate prebiotic that resists host digestion and is converted by the microbiome to metabolites (i.e. butyrate).
Polyphenol
A group of colorful compounds occurring naturally in plants that can be prebiotics for the gut microbiome and benefit health.
Probiotic
Live microorganisms derived from food or gut microbiome, that when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host.
Postbiotic
Bioactive metabolites produced by microorganisms in a fermentation process from food nutrients (i.e. fiber, polyphenol) that support health or well being.
Butyrate
One of several short chain fatty acids (SCFA) produced by the microbiome that feeds the gut lining, stimulates GLP-1, and regulates metabolism, and mitochondria.
GLP-1
An incretin hormone, in class with GIP and PYY, that the gut produces in response food and that regulates appetite and metabolism.
Mitochondria
Cellular powerhouses that convert food into energy, in concert with the microbiome through its metabolites.
Smart Bites App
Smart Nutrition in the Pocket
A science-based, NCS-powered quality scanner to simplify healthy food choice.
- SCAN product barcodes
- CHOOSE healthier foods
- CREATE balanced meals
- TRACK the health gains
A heartfelt thanks to Ben Roberts and Luke Walker for their volunteered artful coding. And grateful to Jennie Damman & family for their ever-wise input & advice.
Science-based
FOOD QUALITY SCANNER
How do your favorites score?
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This website provides general dietary guidance and is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding your health or medical conditions.