Mar 18, 2026
#314 What if chronic constipation, gut dysbiosis, and microbial imbalance were early warning signs of Parkinson's disease — appearing up to 20 years before a diagnosis?
In this episode, I sit down with microbiome researcher and founder of The BioCollective, Martha Carlin, whose journey into Parkinson's research began when her husband John was diagnosed at just 44 years old. Martha spent over two decades studying the gut-brain connection in Parkinson's, building one of the first independent IRB-approved human microbiome research initiatives in the world.
In this episode, you'll discover:
- Why chronic constipation can precede a Parkinson's diagnosis by 20+ years — and why it is never normal
- The two phenotypes of Parkinson's disease and how gut bacteria can distinguish between them
- The role of hydrogen sulphide, LPS endotoxins, and leaky gut in Parkinson's pathology
- The mycobacteria connection to Parkinson's that almost nobody is talking about
- How glyphosate is decimating the good bacteria we need most
- The glycocalyx — what it is, why it matters, and how to restore it
- The overlooked cardiovascular risks in Parkinson's disease.
- Where to start if you or someone you love has just received a diagnosis
If you are living with chronic constipation, have a family member with Parkinson's, or want to understand the deeper gut-brain connection — this episode is for you.
Find Martha at biotiquest.com
I'm Lynda Griparic, a degree-qualified naturopath specialising in complex gut health conditions, including SIBO, IMO, and chronic constipation. Book a consultation or shop BetterMe Tea at lyndagriparic.com