5 Akkermansia Benefits, Side Effects, and Dosage

The number of bacteria in the human gut is beyond imagination—an estimated 100 trillion microbes from about 5,000 different species, weighing up to 2 kilograms. That’s about 10 times the number of human cells in the body [10].

While these microorganisms can also be found on the skin, in the mouth, and even in the vaginal tract, the gut is the most diverse and densely populated area, acting as a command center for overall health.

From aiding digestion to influencing mood, the gut microbiome plays a powerful role in our well-being, making it important to explore key microbial species.

Among these, Akkermansia muciniphila stands out as a unique and fascinating bacterium. Instead of feeding on nutrients from the food we eat, it sustains itself by consuming the mucus layer that protects the gut lining.

This raises an interesting question: does this process weaken the gut barrier, or could it actually support human health?

This article explores the role of Akkermansia muciniphila—how it helps strengthen gut health, improve metabolism, and what to know before taking it as a supplement. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of this tiny but powerful ally inside your body.

What is Akkermansia muciniphila?

Akkermansia muciniphila is a relatively new species of bacteria that has been gaining significant attention from the scientific community due to its potential role in supporting gut health.

It is a gram-negative, strictly anaerobic, non-spore-forming, oval-shaped bacterium that belongs to the Verrucomicrobia phylum—a group of microorganisms that are rare in the human gut [17]. This bacterium was first discovered and isolated in 2004 from the fecal sample of a healthy adult.

What makes it especially unique is that it was cultured using mucin—a glycoprotein that forms the gut's protective mucus layer—as its sole source of carbon and nitrogen [8, 17, 22].

Its specialized ability to break down mucin allows A. muciniphila to thrive even when dietary fiber or nutrients are lacking—something that’s quite common in modern lifestyles [1, 27].

A. muciniphila primarily resides in the gut’s mucosal layer, which serves as the “first line of defense” against harmful substances from food and the environment [17].

In a typical, healthy gut microbiome, it usually makes up about 1–3% of the total bacteria found in stool and can account for up to 3–5% of the colon’s bacterial population in healthy adults [9, 17]. It has also been detected in smaller amounts in breast milk, the oral cavity, pancreas, and appendix [21].

What makes Akkermansia muciniphila particularly remarkable is not just its ability to survive under harsh conditions, but also how it interacts with the human body. Rather than merely existing passively in the gut, this bacterium actively contributes to the balance of the gut microbiota.

By breaking down mucin, A. muciniphila not only helps regenerate the protective mucus layer but also produces byproducts—such as simple carbohydrates—that nourish other beneficial bacteria [27].

Moreover, this bacterium has been shown to enhance the integrity of the intestinal epithelial barrier, essentially strengthening the “wall” that protects the gut from external threats [21, 25].

It may also help regulate the mucosal immune system—where the body and microbes interact most frequently—reducing the risk of inflammation and overactive immune responses [7].

Some studies have even suggested that Akkermansia muciniphila can inhibit the growth of dangerous pathogens such as Clostridioides difficile, Listeria monocytogenes, and Salmonella Typhimurium [15, 19, 29].

Overall, Akkermansia muciniphila is far from being a passive or “hidden” presence in the digestive system. It is now considered an important player in maintaining gut health and may even have broader effects on overall wellness.

In the next section, we’ll dive deeper into the specific benefits this bacterium may offer—from strengthening the gut barrier, supporting weight management and metabolic health, and reducing inflammation, to easing symptoms of IBS and IBD, enhancing immune function, and more.

5 Benefits of Akkermansia muciniphila

Improves Gut Barrier Function and Gut Health

Akkermansia muciniphila is a special type of bacteria in the gut that works like a builder, constantly strengthening the body’s “protective wall”—the mucus layer that lines the intestines. This layer acts as a shield, helping block harmful bacteria and toxins from entering the body [8, 31].

Akkermansia helps by "cleaning" old mucus and encouraging the body to produce fresh new mucus, keeping the barrier thick and strong. You can think of it like maintaining and reinforcing a wall to keep it solid over time.

In addition to protecting the gut lining, Akkermansia also helps tighten the connections between intestinal cells, making it harder for harmful substances to leak through [31].

This is important because a "leaky gut" has been linked to many health problems. Plus, it stimulates special cells in the gut to release natural antimicrobial compounds that help fight off bad bacteria [31].

Another exciting discovery is that Akkermansia may even help repair gut damage caused by processed foods. In one mouse study, it was able to reverse the negative effects of synthetic additives like CMC and P80—common ingredients found in processed foods—on the gut barrier [14].

While most of the current research has been done in animal studies, scientists like Derrien and colleagues highlight that Akkermansia muciniphila is considered a key player in supporting gut health. However, more human studies are still needed to fully understand its benefits [8].

Some concerns have been raised about whether Akkermansia’s ability to break down mucus could weaken the gut barrier. But according to current research, the bacterium’s ability to stimulate mucus renewal brings an overall positive effect, helping to maintain a strong and healthy gut lining [31].

Supports Weight Management and Metabolic Health

Akkermansia muciniphila is becoming known as a quiet "guardian" of metabolic health. It not only strengthens the gut’s protective barrier but also plays an important role in managing body weight, improving how the body handles sugar, and supporting fat metabolism.

Research has found that people and animals with higher levels of A. muciniphila in their gut tend to have lower rates of obesity and diabetes. In contrast, those with obesity or type 2 diabetes often show a significant drop in this beneficial bacterium [22].

But how can a gut bacterium impact weight and metabolism?

One major way is by helping the body respond better to insulin.

A. muciniphila boosts the production of GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), a hormone that encourages the pancreas to release more insulin after meals and lowers blood sugar levels. Scientists recently discovered that A. muciniphila produces a special protein (P9) that directly stimulates gut cells to release GLP-1 [14, 21].

Beyond blood sugar control, A. muciniphila also helps the body manage fats.

In a study with mice that were fed a high-fat diet, supplementing with A. muciniphila helped improve cholesterol levels and supported liver function by regulating certain gut-liver pathways [24]. You can think of the gut and liver as being connected by a "hotline," and A. muciniphila helps keep the communication clear and healthy.

Interestingly, even when A. muciniphila is pasteurized (gently heat-treated), it still offers benefits. In obese mouse models, pasteurized A. muciniphila increased how much energy the body burned and promoted more energy loss through waste [6]. This suggests it could quietly help the body burn more calories without needing big changes in diet.

Although most of the research so far comes from animal studies, early human trials are also promising. In one 3-month study (NCT02637115) with obese participants, heat-treated A. muciniphila was found to be safe, well-tolerated, and helpful in reducing body weight, lowering inflammation markers, and supporting liver health [30].

While the potential of A. muciniphila is exciting, it's important to remember that research is still ongoing. It shouldn't be seen as a "magic bullet" for weight loss. Instead, think of it as a possible tool to support overall metabolic health when combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle.

Reduces Inflammation

Beyond its role in metabolism, Akkermansia muciniphila also helps reduce chronic inflammation—an invisible factor behind many modern diseases.

This bacterium produces a special outer membrane protein, Amuc_1100, which interacts with certain immune cell receptors (called TLR2 and TLR4) to regulate inflammation and calm the immune system [17, 31].

In a mouse study using a model of chemically induced colitis (DSS model), Akkermansia reduced the production of inflammatory molecules like IL-17 and TNF-α, which are often responsible for tissue damage [14].

In lab experiments, it also lowered the release of inflammatory signals triggered by bacterial toxins (known as LPS) [14].

Researchers believe Amuc_1100 plays a key role in controlling inflammation, suggesting that Akkermansia might offer new options for managing chronic inflammatory conditions [17].

However, most current evidence comes from animal and laboratory studies. Human trials are still needed to confirm these benefits. Some studies also suggest that whether live or pasteurized bacteria are used could make a difference, so more research is needed to find the best approach [31].

Alleviates Symptoms of IBS and IBD

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects, Akkermansia muciniphila also shows promise in easing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)—two common digestive disorders that cause ongoing pain and discomfort.

In IBS, this bacterium and its natural byproducts called short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) may help lessen gut pain, reduce muscle spasms in the intestines, and ease bloating [14].

A lab study using intestinal tissues from patients with post-infectious IBS found that Akkermansia boosted levels of IL-13, an anti-inflammatory molecule that helps calm the immune system [14].

For IBD, which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, Akkermansia helped protect gut structure and lower inflammation in animal models [32]. In another mouse study mimicking IBS, it improved gut function and reduced colon sensitivity [22].

Scientists believe that Akkermansia may help manage IBS symptoms mainly through SCFAs and IL-13, although more studies in humans are still needed to fully confirm these benefits [14].

Supports Immune Function

Akkermansia muciniphila is a friendly bacteria naturally found in the gut, and it plays an important role in helping the body stay strong against infections.

By maintaining a healthy gut lining and balancing the gut microbiome, it strengthens the body's natural defenses, making it easier to fight off common illnesses like colds, flu, and digestive infections.

A healthy gut supported by Akkermansia can also help reduce the risk of immune-related problems such as allergies or autoimmune conditions.

Researchers have found that Akkermansia not only protects the gut lining but also supports the overall immune system by promoting the production of natural protective molecules. For example, it encourages the body to make immunoglobulin A (IgA), an antibody that guards the surfaces of the gut, lungs, and other organs [8].

It also boosts the production of antimicrobial peptides—natural substances that help block harmful bacteria from attacking the body [9].

On a deeper level, Akkermansia helps regulate immune cells known as regulatory T cells (Tregs), which are important for keeping the immune system balanced and preventing it from becoming overactive [31].

It even produces a special protein, threonyl-tRNA synthetase, that helps monitor and fine-tune immune responses [16].

In early animal studies, Akkermansia also showed potential for strengthening the body’s defense against viruses like influenza [13].

Although much of the research so far has been in animals or laboratory settings, these discoveries highlight the exciting potential of Akkermansia muciniphila to support stronger, more balanced immune health in humans.

Other Akkermansia Probiotic Benefits

Besides its well-known role in gut health and weight management, Akkermansia muciniphila may also support brain function, healthy aging, and liver health. These promising findings are expanding the potential uses of Akkermansia as a broad-spectrum probiotic.

For brain health, studies in mice suggest that Akkermansia may help ease depression-like symptoms caused by chronic stress. By supporting a healthier gut environment, it may positively influence the connection between the gut and the brain [3].

Regarding aging, daily use of Akkermansia in older mice helped improve signs of natural aging and even extended lifespan [2]. Other research suggests that it may help prevent age-related health issues by keeping the gut microbiome in balance [20].

In liver health, Akkermansia has shown the ability to protect against non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in animal studies, especially when the liver is under stress from a high-fat diet [23].

Together, these benefits suggest that Akkermansia muciniphila could help protect not just the gut, but also the brain, the aging body, and the liver—supporting overall long-term health.

However, most current findings are based on laboratory and animal studies. More large-scale human research is needed to fully confirm these benefits.

What Does it Mean if Akkermansia is High or Low?

A high level of Akkermansia is often considered a sign of a healthy gut microbiome.

Studies, mostly in humans and animals, have found that an abundance of this bacterium is linked to a strong gut barrier, better insulin sensitivity, and a lower risk of obesity or type 2 diabetes [22].

However, extremely high levels are rarely reported, and there's currently no clear evidence that this poses any harm. Still, some scientists note that an overall microbial imbalance should be monitored [14].

On the other hand, low levels of Akkermansia may point to underlying health issues.

Research on people with obesity or metabolic disorders has shown a significant drop in this bacterium, which may lead to a weaker gut lining, chronic inflammation, and metabolic disturbances [30].

Causes of low Akkermansia levels can include a high-fat, low-fiber diet or the consumption of synthetic emulsifiers found in processed foods, as observed in animal studies [14]. The consequences of low levels may increase the risk of leaky gut syndrome or inflammatory bowel diseases, making the body more vulnerable.

To find out your Akkermansia levels, gut microbiome testing is a common method. These tests, usually done through a stool sample, use DNA sequencing technology to measure the presence of different bacteria, including A. muciniphila.

Although this technology is becoming more accessible, the cost and accuracy can vary, and results should be interpreted by a doctor or a nutrition professional to get the right guidance [12].

The good news is that Akkermansia levels aren't fixed. By making adjustments to your diet and lifestyle, you can help support the growth of this beneficial bacterium for long-term health.

How to Increase Akkermansia Muciniphila

Understanding what high or low levels of Akkermansia muciniphila mean is the first step toward improving gut health—and now you can take action to help nourish this beneficial bacterium.

Think of A. muciniphila as a digestive companion, ready to thrive when given the right care. From choosing the right foods to using supplements, there are simple ways to encourage its growth and build a healthier gut microbiome.

One increasingly popular and effective method is taking supplements that contain A. muciniphila.

These products may deliver the bacterium directly, either in a live or pasteurized form—both of which have shown promising results, especially in animal studies [21].

More importantly, a human clinical trial has confirmed that oral supplementation of A. muciniphila is safe, making it a convenient option for those looking to quickly boost this microbe in their gut [27].

Some supplements also combine A. muciniphila with other beneficial bacteria or vitamins to further support digestive health.

One user, Diane G, shared that after just a week of taking a probiotic supplement, she experienced noticeable improvements in digestion and no longer felt bloated.*

Beyond supplements, you can also naturally support A. muciniphila through your diet—essentially providing the “fuel” this bacterium needs to grow.

Polyphenol compounds found in foods play a key role. For example, ellagitannins from pomegranates have been studied for their ability to stimulate A. muciniphila growth, helping enrich the gut microbiome [26].

Enjoying a cup of green tea, which contains epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), is another great way to support this microbe, as shown in studies with obese mice [18].

In addition, berberine—a natural compound found in plants like barberry—may also encourage A. muciniphila growth while supporting metabolic health, according to research on its effects on the gut microbiome [33].

It’s easy to incorporate these foods into your daily life, like adding pomegranate seeds to a salad or sipping green tea in the afternoon, to create an ideal environment for this beneficial bacterium.

Whether you choose supplements or food-based strategies, the key is maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support A. muciniphila in the long run.

Side Effects of Akkermansia muciniphila: Is Akkermansia Supplements Safe?

Akkermansia muciniphila is generally considered safe for most people and may offer many gut health benefits. However, it’s important to know that it might not be suitable for everyone—especially for those with certain health conditions.

Human trials so far show that taking Akkermansia orally is usually well tolerated [27]. But in some lab studies, it triggered mild immune responses in healthy white blood cells [Si et al., 2022]. This suggests that in certain situations, it could cause unwanted inflammation.

People with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, need to be particularly careful. While Akkermansia may help some individuals, it might also worsen symptoms in others by affecting the gut’s protective mucus layer [4, 22].

In mouse studies, supplementing Akkermansia too soon after antibiotic use increased inflammation and delayed gut recovery [Chiantera et al., 2023]. There were also findings linking it to increased tumor growth in mice with intestinal cancer [4].

Some conditions like Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and endometriosis have been associated with higher levels of Akkermansia in the body. Although researchers are still studying what this means, it raises concerns about how this bacterium might affect people with complex health issues [4].

Other factors, like recent antibiotic use or existing hormonal conditions such as PCOS, can also affect how your body responds to Akkermansia [4]. In some cases, overgrowth of this bacterium might even weaken the gut barrier by increasing inflammation [Chiantera et al., 2023].

Everyone’s gut microbiome is unique, so not everyone will react the same way. If you have a digestive disorder, are recovering from antibiotics, or have other chronic conditions, it's a good idea to consult a doctor or nutrition specialist before starting Akkermansia supplements.

This way, you can make sure you’re choosing what’s safest and most effective for your individual needs.

How Much Akkermansia Should You Take?

With the potential benefits and risks of Akkermansia muciniphila in mind, a practical question arises—how much of this bacterium should you take to get results while staying safe?

Think of supplementing with A. muciniphila like making lemonade—too little and it won’t work, too much and it could cause problems. Figuring out the right amount isn’t always straightforward, but current research offers some helpful guidance.

One human trial found that a daily dose of 10 billion colony-forming units (CFU), whether live or pasteurized, was safe when taken continuously for three months [5]. This number serves as a reliable starting point for supplementing with A. muciniphila without exceeding safe limits.

However, since A. muciniphila is still a relatively new probiotic, scientists are continuing to explore its effects. At this time, there is no officially established optimal dosage due to the limited number of studies and clinical trials available (Depommier et al., 2019).

This means that 10 billion CFU per day is considered a safe option based on the data we have, but each person’s body may respond differently.

Factors like your health condition, diet, or unique gut microbiome can influence how much A. muciniphila you may actually need. By choosing a personalized dosage, you can make the most of the bacterium’s benefits in a safe and effective way.

When is the Best Time to Take Akkermansia Supplements?

Think of supplementing with Akkermansia muciniphila like planting a seed—you want to choose the right moment for it to thrive in your gut. While there’s no perfect answer yet, studies and user experiences offer some practical tips to consider.

One study on how meals affect probiotic absorption found that taking probiotics anywhere from 30 minutes before to right before a meal—especially one containing healthy fats—can improve their survival through the stomach and support better absorption [28].

It’s like creating a smoother path for A. muciniphila to reach its “home” in the gut. Fats from sources like olive oil or butter may act as a protective layer, helping the bacteria make it through the stomach’s harsh, acidic environment.

However, not all probiotics are the same, and A. muciniphila appears to be more resilient due to its sturdy structure.

Many users and commenters on health forums suggest taking it on an empty stomach, such as early in the morning or right before bed, when stomach acid is lower and the bacteria may have a better chance of reaching the gut.*

Taking it in the morning could be a great way to kickstart your gut health, while nighttime dosing takes advantage of the body’s overnight fasting window, potentially helping the bacteria settle in more effectively.*

That said, scientists haven’t reached a consensus on the ideal timing, since the results can vary based on individual differences and the type of supplement used. Rather than stressing too much about whether to take it in the morning or evening, it’s more important to be consistent.

Choose a time that fits best with your daily routine—maybe with your morning coffee or before turning out the lights at night. Finding the right product and sticking with it regularly is likely to bring more long-term benefits than obsessing over exact timing.

Who Should Not Take Akkermansia Supplements?

Knowing the right dosage of Akkermansia muciniphila is important, but that doesn’t mean everyone should take this probiotic.

You can think of Akkermansia like a spice—it can be wonderful for many recipes, but it may not suit every dish. Certain health conditions or special situations might make it less safe, and recognizing these cases can help you make better decisions for your health.

People with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, should be particularly cautious. In some cases, too much Akkermansia could worsen gut inflammation instead of helping [4].

During infections like Salmonella typhimurium, supplementing with Akkermansia has not shown clear protective benefits and might not be necessary (Chiantera et al., 2023).

After taking antibiotics, your gut microbiome needs time to naturally heal. Introducing Akkermansia too early could interfere with this delicate recovery process and slow down microbiome balance [4].

People with hormonal or gynecological conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis should also be careful. These conditions carry a higher risk of gut inflammation, so adding Akkermansia without medical advice could be risky (Chiantera et al., 2023).

In neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis, unusually high levels of Akkermansia have been observed. Adding more through supplements might not be beneficial and could potentially have negative effects [Chiantera et al., 2023].

Since everyone’s gut microbiome is different, what works well for one person may not work for another. If you have any health concerns—or if you fall into one of these groups—it’s best to talk to a doctor or a nutrition specialist before starting Akkermansia muciniphila supplements.

Professional guidance can help ensure you choose the safest and most effective approach for your unique needs.

How Long for Akkermansia to Work?

When starting a supplement like Akkermansia muciniphila, many people expect to feel changes in their bodies—but the time it takes for this bacteria to “kick in” can vary greatly from person to person. Based on real-world experiences, you might notice effects quickly, or it may take longer depending on your body and health goals.

Some people report feeling changes after just 2–3 days, such as feeling fuller for longer, having fewer cravings, or experiencing better metabolism—especially if they are dealing with metabolic issues or prediabetes.*

These early signs are like the first lights turning on, indicating that the bacteria is starting to work. However, not everyone sees quick results. Some users have shared that it took them weeks or even months to notice clear improvements.*

One person, for example, saw their HbA1c drop by 0.2 and moved out of the prediabetes range after several months of combining A. muciniphila with a healthy diet and other probiotics.*

Diet plays a key role in helping A. muciniphila work effectively. Foods rich in fiber and polyphenols—like pomegranates or green tea—can support the growth of this bacteria and help maintain its benefits.

However, only about 20% of users are able to maintain healthy levels of the bacteria in their gut after stopping supplementation, based on personal experiences shared online.* This shows that each body responds differently, influenced by its existing microbiome and lifestyle habits.

Conclusion

Akkermansia muciniphila is considered a promising bacterium, playing a key role in strengthening the gut barrier, improving metabolism, and supporting overall health—from regulating blood sugar to reducing inflammation.

You can nourish this bacteria through polyphenol-rich foods like pomegranates and oats, or by taking a supplement at a safe daily dose of 10 billion CFU. However, patience is important, as results can take anywhere from a few days to several months, depending on your body.

That said, Akkermansia supplementation isn’t suitable for everyone. People with inflammatory bowel disease, those who have recently taken antibiotics, or individuals with neurological conditions should be cautious and consult a doctor to ensure safety.

The journey of exploring Akkermansia is still unfolding, with many questions remaining about its full potential in medicine and personalized health. So, how will you support your gut microbiome—by blending a pomegranate smoothie or by booking a conversation with a nutritionist? The next step is yours, as science continues to open new doors for gut health.