#448: Turning Sugar into Fiber, Hangover Science, and the Truth About Genetically Modified Probiotics | Zack Abbott

Today, I’m joined by Zack Abbott, a biotech innovator who took an unconventional path—from pharmaceutical science to the front lines of consumer health. Instead of following the well-worn route of drug development, Zack set his sights on bringing cutting-edge biotechnology directly to people, creating products designed not just for convenience, but for genuinely transforming our relationship with microbiology. Anyone who uses code NATNIDDAM will get 10% off their first order! Visit https://zbiotics.com/NATNIDDAM. Episode Timestamps: Podcast introduction and host background ... 00:00:00 Consumer impact versus traditional drug industry ... 00:06:06 Gap and opportunity for biotech in consumer space ... 00:06:42 Engineered probiotics: not hacks but new relationships with biology ... 00:07:19 Scientific and public responses to engineered probiotics ... 00:09:03 Technology behind genetically engineered probiotics explained ... 00:17:39 Bacillus subtilis: why it’s the ideal delivery vehicle ... 00:27:08 Sugar-to-fiber product mechanism and rationale ... 00:32:58 Importance of fiber quantity and diversity for gut health ... 00:42:26 Sugar-to-fiber: capabilities and limitations ... 00:54:06 Keto/carnivore implications and who benefits from sugar-to-fiber ... 00:57:51 Misunderstandings and realities about GMOs in consumer biotech ... 01:00:02 Regulation, safety, and honest claims in biotech supplements ... 01:07:01 Current science and future of the microbiome in longevity ... 01:12:14 Personalization, AI, and microbiome-directed health ... 01:13:10 Our Amazing Sponsors: MitoQ Hormonal Metabolic Control – A targeted formula designed to support women through the hormonal and metabolic shifts of perimenopause and menopause, featuring S-Equol for healthy estrogen signaling, B. breve to support the gut-hormone connection, and chromium to help maintain healthy blood sugar balance. Head to MitoQ.com/nat and use code NAT10 to try it for yourself. Manukora Honey - A simple upgrade to your daily routine, this Manuka honey delivers antioxidants, prebiotics, and naturally occurring MGO that you won’t get from regular sweeteners; head to manukora.com/NAT to save up to 31% plus $25 in free gifts with the Starter Kit. http://manukora.com/nat Ultimate GI Repair by LVLUP Health — a research-backed blend of peptides, zinc carnosine, and gut-support compounds designed to strengthen your gut lining, improve digestion, and support resilience from the inside out; head to lvluphealth.com and use code NAT for 15% off Nat's Links: YouTube Channel Join My Membership Community Sign up for My Newsletter Instagram Dr. Bill Lawrence Episode