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How IL8 Genetics Affect Inflammation, Immunity, and Gut Health

The immune system protects you by recognizing threats and directing cells to respond. One important gene in that process is IL8. IL8 makes interleukin 8, a signaling protein that calls immune cells to sites of infection or injury. Variations in IL8 can change how much interleukin 8 your body produces, which may influence inflammation, infection response, and certain gut-related risks.

Why IL8 Matters

  • Interleukin 8 helps recruit white blood cells to fight infections.
  • Higher IL-8 levels can improve pathogen clearance but may also cause more inflammation.
  • Genetic differences in IL8 are linked to variable immune responses and may affect risk for complications from infections such as Helicobacter pylori.
  • Lifestyle, diet, and microbiome balance interact with genetic predisposition to shape outcomes.

Practical Steps to Support Immune Balance and Gut Health

No genotype change is destiny. Lifestyle and nutrition can moderate genetic tendencies. Below are friendly, actionable recommendations that support balanced inflammation and a healthy gut.

Diet

  • Prioritize fiber rich foods: fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains to feed beneficial gut bacteria.
  • Include fermented foods and probiotics: yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso to support microbiome diversity.
  • Limit processed foods and added sugars that promote inflammation and dysbiosis.
  • Choose anti inflammatory fats: olive oil, avocado, nuts, and fatty fish for omega 3 fatty acids.
  • Stay well hydrated and consider small, frequent meals if you experience digestive sensitivity.

Supplements to Consider

  • Probiotic supplement with multiple strains to support gut resilience, especially during or after antibiotics.
  • Omega 3 fish oil or algal oil to help manage low grade inflammation.
  • Vitamin D if levels are low, as it supports immune regulation. Check levels before supplementing.
  • Prebiotic fiber or resistant starch to nourish beneficial microbes if dietary fiber is low.

Lifestyle Habits

  • Prioritize quality sleep for immune regulation.
  • Manage stress through mindfulness, breathing practices, or moderate exercise to reduce inflammatory signaling.
  • Regular physical activity supports gut motility, microbial diversity, and immune balance.
  • Avoid unnecessary antibiotic use and follow medical guidance to reduce risk of microbiome disruption.

Tests and Monitoring

  • Discuss H. pylori testing with your provider if you have persistent stomach symptoms or risk factors.
  • Consider basic inflammation markers and vitamin D testing if you have chronic symptoms.
  • Work with your healthcare provider to interpret tests and create a plan tailored to your health history.
Two effect alleles (AA) — Higher IL8 expression

If your genotype is AA for rs4073 you carry two copies of the effect allele. This pattern is associated with increased IL 8 expression. That means your body may produce higher levels of interleukin 8, which calls immune cells to sites of infection. While this can help fight pathogens, sustained or exaggerated IL 8 signaling may lead to heightened inflammation.

Health considerations

  • Potential for stronger inflammatory responses, especially in the gut.
  • Higher risk of complications related to Helicobacter pylori infections.
  • May experience more sensitivity during infections or when microbiome is disrupted.

Recommendations

  • Adopt a fiber rich diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains to support a balanced microbiome.
  • Include fermented foods and consider a multi strain probiotic, especially during or after antibiotic use.
  • Limit processed foods, refined sugars, and excessive alcohol that can amplify inflammation.
  • Consider omega 3 supplementation and ensure adequate vitamin D status to support immune regulation.
  • Prioritize stress reduction and sleep to minimize inflammatory triggers.
  • If you have persistent stomach symptoms, seek H. pylori testing and follow your provider on treatment and follow up.
One effect allele (AT) — Moderately increased IL8 expression

If your genotype is AT for rs4073 you carry one copy of the effect allele. This suggests a moderate increase in IL 8 production relative to the non effect genotype. You may mount a slightly stronger inflammatory response, which can be useful for fighting infections but also may raise inflammation risk in sensitive contexts.

Health considerations

  • Possible mild increase in inflammatory activity compared with the non effect genotype.
  • Transient gut sensitivity during infections, antibiotic use, or poor diet.

Recommendations

  • Maintain a fiber rich diet and include fermented foods to keep gut bacteria balanced.
  • Use probiotics during and after antibiotic courses to preserve microbiome diversity.
  • Limit processed foods and added sugars to reduce inflammation triggers.
  • Support healthy lifestyle habits: regular exercise, stress management, and consistent sleep.
  • Discuss H. pylori testing with your provider only if symptoms or risk factors are present.
No effect alleles (TT) — Typical IL8 expression

If your genotype is TT for rs4073 you carry two copies of the non effect allele. This pattern is associated with typical IL 8 production and standard immune response activity. Your body is likely to maintain balanced IL 8 expression and normal inflammatory responses.

Health considerations

  • Standard susceptibility to immune related challenges.
  • Lower genetic predisposition toward elevated IL 8 driven inflammation compared with the effect allele carriers.

Recommendations

  • Follow a balanced, fiber rich diet and include probiotic foods for routine gut support.
  • Limit processed foods and added sugars to help maintain inflammatory balance.
  • Prioritize sleep, stress reduction, and regular physical activity for overall immune health.
  • Only pursue H. pylori testing if you have symptoms or clinician recommended risk screening.

When to Talk with Your Healthcare Provider

  • If you experience persistent or severe gastrointestinal symptoms such as frequent stomach pain, unexplained weight loss, or blood in stool.
  • Before starting new supplements, especially if you have chronic conditions or take medications.
  • If you need guidance on H. pylori testing and treatment options.
  • To interpret laboratory tests like vitamin D, inflammation markers, or microbiome assessments in context of your health history.

PlexusDx provides education about genetic predispositions only and does not provide medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplements, or medical care.