All articles tagged with #guthealth
Researchers at Nagoya University have found that the soybean protein β-conglycinin (β-CG) can slow heart failure progression in mice by promoting the growth of short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing gut bacteria, which protect the heart. The study suggests that β-CG or its derivatives could be developed into natural therapeutic agents for heart failure, highlighting the potential of dietary interventions in managing heart health.
A study published in The Journal of Nutrition found that replacing refined sugars with maple syrup can significantly improve cardiometabolic risk factors, such as blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and abdominal fat composition. Conducted by Laval University, the trial involved 42 participants who substituted 5% of their daily caloric intake with maple syrup, resulting in improved glycemic response, lower systolic blood pressure, reduced abdominal fat, and healthier gut bacteria. The findings suggest maple syrup as a healthier alternative to refined sugars, with potential benefits for preventing metabolic diseases.
The article discusses the rising incidence of bowel cancer in young patients under 50, with a potential link to antibiotic use, which may harm the gut microbiome and increase cancer risk. A 2022 study found a 50% higher risk of bowel cancer in under-50s who used antibiotics. Lifestyle factors like diet, smoking, and lack of exercise, as well as environmental factors, may also contribute. Improving gut health through diet and probiotics is suggested as a preventive measure. The article also critiques NHS league tables for hospital performance, warning of unintended consequences.
New research published in Cell reveals that gut microbial load, rather than specific bacteria, significantly influences symptoms of gastrointestinal diseases like IBD and colorectal cancer. Using machine learning, researchers found that variations in microbial load, affected by factors such as age, sex, and diet, are more closely linked to symptoms like diarrhea and constipation than the diseases themselves. This challenges traditional views and could reshape disease management and diagnosis. The study highlights the importance of microbial load in understanding gut health and disease associations.
Blueberries are considered the healthiest fruit due to their numerous benefits, including lowering the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes, improving cognitive performance, and aiding in weight management. Other top healthy fruits include strawberries, raspberries, avocados, watermelon, dates, prunes, kiwi, cherries, bananas, apples, grapefruit, pomegranate, pears, blackberries, and mangoes, each offering unique health benefits. Eating a variety of fruits is important for obtaining a spectrum of essential nutrients and promoting a diverse gut microbiome. Whole fruits are the healthiest way to consume fruit, while fruit drinks and dried fruits with added sugar should be limited. Fruit can also support weight management due to its fiber content and role in gut health.
Nutrition experts advocate for plant-based diets as a healthier option, emphasizing the benefits of high protein and fiber intake from plants rather than meat. The Mediterranean diet is highlighted for its focus on whole plant ingredients and health benefits. Caution is advised regarding processed plant proteins, which can be high in saturated fats and ultra-processed ingredients. Plant-based diets are also linked to improved gut health, but experts note the challenge of meeting dietary fiber needs in the U.S. Overall, a shift towards whole plant foods is recommended for better health outcomes.
Leaky gut syndrome, characterized by increased intestinal permeability, may manifest through various symptoms such as chronic gut problems, skin irritation, food allergies, joint pain, fatigue, mood disorders, and autoimmune diseases. Although not officially recognized and difficult to diagnose, lifestyle and dietary changes can support gut health. These include eating whole foods, fiber, probiotics, prebiotics, polyphenols, and foods high in glutamine, managing stress, and exercising regularly. It's important to consult healthcare professionals if you suspect you have gut health issues.
Talk show host Tamron Hall shared her experience with a health scare on her show, revealing that she suffered from severe symptoms due to a parasite, Blastocystis hominis, in her gut. After feeling unwell for two weeks, her gastroenterologist diagnosed her with the parasite, which can cause symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain. Following a two-week course of antibiotics, Hall has recovered and emphasized that such infections are not uncommon and should not be stigmatized.
Experts suggest that a plant-based diet can be healthier and aid in weight loss, emphasizing the importance of high protein and fiber from plants rather than meat. The Mediterranean diet is highlighted as a beneficial plant-based option, focusing on whole foods and reducing animal fats and proteins. Caution is advised regarding ultra-processed plant-based meat alternatives, which may not be as healthy due to high saturated fats and processed ingredients. Plant-based diets are also linked to improved gut health, but most Americans fall short of the recommended fiber intake, essential for gut microbes. The article encourages incorporating more whole plant foods into diets for overall health benefits.
Scientists have found that Bulgarian yogurt could be beneficial for astronauts' health and well-being on missions to Mars, as demonstrated in a study conducted at the Mars Desert Research Station in Utah. The yogurt is easy to prepare and supports gut health, but it may lead to increased flatulence, which could be problematic in the confined spaces of a spacecraft. Further research is suggested to explore the effects of yogurt consumption on flatulence frequency and gut microbiome diversity in space travel contexts.
Dietary fiber is an essential nutrient with numerous health benefits, including aiding in weight loss, regulating blood sugar, promoting regular bowel movements, supporting heart health, and fostering a healthy gut microbiome. There are two types of fiber: soluble and insoluble, each with unique benefits. Adults should aim for 25 to 38 grams of fiber daily, but most Americans fall short, averaging around 16 grams per day. To increase fiber intake, one should consume more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and beans, and consider fiber supplements if necessary. However, it's important not to overdo it, as excessive fiber can lead to discomfort and doesn't contribute to muscle glycogen synthesis.
Scientists have discovered the enzyme bilirubin reductase, produced by gut microbes, which is responsible for converting bilirubin into urobilinogen and ultimately causing the yellow color in urine. This finding solves a mystery that has puzzled researchers for over a century and opens up new avenues for studying gut health and diseases like jaundice and inflammatory bowel disease. The enzyme is present in most healthy adults but absent in newborns and those with inflammatory bowel disease, highlighting its potential importance in human health.
Experts recommend incorporating yogurt, almonds, leafy greens, and salmon into your daily diet to improve gut health, boost metabolism, and aid in weight loss and digestion. Yogurt is rich in probiotics and protein, almonds are high in fiber and healthy fats, leafy greens are packed with essential vitamins and insoluble fiber, and salmon provides omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein, all contributing to a balanced gut microbiome and enhanced metabolic function.
While bone broth can provide some beneficial nutrients, experts don't view the popular beverage as a vital addition to your wellness regime. Benefits of bone broth include providing humans with certain nutrients from the connective tissue and meat of the bones, which in turn can aid in strengthening of muscle and bones. However, there is not enough research to support the benefits or detriments of bone broth on gut health. Bone broth should not be used daily by children and pregnant women due to its high protein content.