Dr Brad Leech is a PhD-qualified Clinical Nutritionist and Herbalist specialising in chronic autoimmune conditions and complex gastrointestinal disorders. He provides complete and personalised care to his patients using functional nutrition, integrative medicine and holistic wellness. After entering the profession in 2008, Brad has taught and developed subjects at leading universities and conducted research on intestinal permeability, autoimmune disease management and food-based probiotics. Brad is the Lead Clinical Educator at Co-Biome by Microba where his expertise in Gastrointestinal healthcare enables him to translate the latest science on the gut microbiome into practical clinical applications. In addition to being an Adjunct Fellow at the National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, Brad offers practitioner support through his multiple microbiome mentoring programs.

Presentation: Are Grains Killing Our Patients – or Could They Be the Missing Link to Wellness?

Grains continue to stir debate in integrative and functional medicine. While grain exclusion is often advised for patients with chronic inflammatory or gastrointestinal conditions, emerging microbiome research urges a reassessment of this widespread approach. This presentation challenges outdated paradigms and presents a scientifically grounded, integrative perspective on the role of grains in gut health.

Dr Brad Leech will explore the current evidence base surrounding grain consumption and its impact on intestinal permeability, mucosal immunity, and microbiome diversity. Clinicians will learn when and how grains can be strategically incorporated to enhance mucin production, reduce dysbiosis, and prevent mucosal barrier disruption. Drawing from recent studies and clinical case work, Dr Leech will provide insights into how different types of grain-derived fibres influence specific microbial communities and patient outcomes.

Attendees will leave equipped with practical tools for personalised reintroduction protocols, clear guidance on grain selection and preparation methods, and a critical understanding of when grain exclusion is clinically justified versus when it may undermine gut restoration efforts.

This session is ideal for integrative medicine doctors, naturopaths and other practitioners seeking to update their clinical decision-making with the latest microbiome science, empowering them to shift from myth-based to evidence-informed practice.