My 15 year old son wakes up every day with intense stomach pain and has it for 2 hours every day for the last 2 years. We have been to gp and doctors and they cant see abything wrong. How might this pain relate to gut microbiome

Intense stomach pain in the morning might be linked to issues with the gut microbiome. One notable possibility is that past gut infections can alter genetic expression, making the gut hypersensitive to certain foods. Such changes can result in persistent gastrointestinal pain even when no infection is currently present 1.

The gut microbiome, which refers to the trillions of microorganisms in the gut, plays a crucial role in health. A diverse microbiome supports many functions, including immune and brain function 2 3. Inadequate gut microbiota diversity can contribute to gut-brain axis dysfunction, potentially leading to pain and mood disorders 4 2.

Supporting the gut microbiome by consuming prebiotics and probiotics can be beneficial. Foods like low-sugar fermented items—sauerkraut, kimchi, and Greek yogurt—can enhance microbiota diversity and reduce inflammation, which might alleviate gut pain 2 5.

Understanding and managing the gut microbiome could be key in addressing your son's chronic stomach pain. It might be beneficial to explore these dietary changes and consult with a specialist in gut health.