gut microbiome Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Hidden Dangers of Antibiotic Use: Did Your Doctor Tell You This?

The AHA! Team — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 05:48:38 +0000

Dena Schmidt via NaturalHealth365 – While antibiotics can help fight off unhealthy bacteria, they can also suppress the growth of the bacteria that contribute to a healthy gut microbiome and a robust immune system. Not only are bacteria developing antibiotic resistance at an alarming rate, but research from the University of Virginia School of Medicine has found that antibiotic use can also make the gut microbiome and the immune system more prone to dis-ease. The researchers believe that gut problems are due to the reduced levels of ‘good’ gut bacteria that help fight disease. While antibiotics can help fight off unhealthy bacteria, they can also suppress the growth of the bacteria that contribute to a healthy gut microbiome and a robust immune system. Additionally, a 2023 study published in Cell Reports Medicine found that prior antibiotic use can negatively impact immune responses by diminishing gut microbiome diversity and altering systemic immune function. The study demonstrated that patients with advanced gastric cancer who had taken antibiotics experienced poorer outcomes when treated with PD-1 inhibitors, a type of immunotherapy. Immune system ‘first responder cells’ impaired by antibiotic use The researchers specifically found that neutrophils, an important immune system white blood cell, were dramatically suppressed. This weakened the intestinal barrier against invading bugs and made the entire immune system less effective at fighting off infections. Neutrophils are in a sense the immune system’s “first responders” against invading foreign pathogens. Antibiotics were found to disrupt the balance of the gut microbiome to the extent that natural microbes could not properly do their job. This in turn left the gut and the entire body more susceptible to infection. Researchers are still seeking more insights into the role of the gut microbiome in health. Although the microorganisms that live inside us are still somewhat mysterious, they undoubtedly play a key role in digestion and overall health. The entire gut microbiome and immune system are compromised by the overuse of antibiotics For the study, the University of Virginia School of Medicine researchers focused on amebic colitis, a deadly parasitic infection commonly found in developing countries. Antibiotic use is widespread in many third-world or developing countries. The researchers collected and analyzed stool samples from children living in the slums of Dhaka, Bangladesh. They found those with the most severe infections had far less gut microbiome diversity. This correlated with high antibiotic use in this area, where children often receive two dozen or more antibiotic treatments by the age of two. Use vitamin C, vitamin D, and a healthy diet to bolster the immune system naturally This research adds to the mounting evidence that antibiotics should not be used unless absolutely necessary. Not only does antibiotic overuse lead to multi-drug-resistant bacteria, but it also raises the risk of infection due to impaired immune system functioning. Let this serve as a reminder to avoid antibiotics whenever possible. Instead, strive to keep your immune system strong through a healthy diet, sufficient vitamin C, and adequate vitamin D intake through sunshine exposure and/or supplementation. We at NaturalHealth365 can only hope that government health officials – especially within developing countries – will read this article and take action to help save lives. Editor’s note: For the finest quality probiotics, vitamins C and D, I suggest you look at the LuvByNature brand. Sources for this article include: NIH.govNews-Medical.net To read the original article click here.

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The “Shadow Organ” Often Ignored by Western Medicine, Lifesaving News

The AHA! Team — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 06:12:12 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Whether you are fat or thin may be a family trait, but not just through the inheritance of poor eating habits and a tradition of second helpings. Before you jump to conclusions, this isn’t your typical story about genetics. If you want to avoid degenerative diseases, I suggest you read this lifesaving news about a “shadow organ” often ignored by Western medicine. Recent research highlights that your gut microbiome – the trillions of microorganisms living in your digestive tract – plays a pivotal role in determining body weight and overall health. A study published in Current Gastroenterology Reports explores how gut bacteria, influenced by genetics and lifestyle, are key contributors to obesity and obesity-related disorders. But here’s the good news: gut microbiota can be modulated. Nonetheless, this isn’t a free pass to skip healthy eating, though. The food you consume directly influences which genes are turned on or off, shaping your gut microbiome and metabolic health. By taking charge of your diet and gut health, you can rewrite the script for your well-being, regardless of genetic predisposition. Conventionally trained physicians need to learn more about the lifesaving value of gut bacteria Known collectively as the microbiome, these trillions of live bacteria found in the human body influence everything from your immune system to your likelihood of developing chronic degenerative disease. These families of bacteria weigh about four pounds and actually outnumber the amount of cells in the body. The size and weighty influence of these collective bacteria are so significant that some scientists have begun thinking of the microbiome as a “shadow organ” of the human body. With advanced gene technologies being developed, this extra organ is getting greater attention from scientists worldwide. New study: How genes are connected to obesity In one study, scientists from Cornell University joined with researchers at King’s College London to sequence genes of microbes derived from more than 1,000 fecal samples of over 400 pairs of twins. Twins were used in the research because of their similar gene makeup. Scientists found that identical twins, whose genes are 100 percent the same, shared greater numbers of specific microbial families in the intestinal tract compared with non-identical twins, who share only half their genes. These findings provide clear evidence that genes are a major determining factor in the composition of the gut’s microbial makeup. This microbial composition can influence a host of health factors, including digestion, metabolism and even mood, as well as act as a cause of obesity. In their published findings, the scientists conclude that identifying bacterial families more prevalent among thin people could hold the key to customized probiotic treatments that exploit healthy traits and lead to weight loss. Emerging weight loss treatment plans When transplanted into mice, those microbes found predominantly in thin people were found to actually slow weight gain, suggesting that identification of the exact genetic composition of gut bacteria could hold the key to future weight loss treatments. Exploiting health-related bacteria families may, one day, be as common of an approach to wellness as exercise and a healthy diet. These genetic findings may also change how the medical community and the general population approach issues of obesity. More than one-third of United States adults are obese This is truly exciting information – when you consider the fact that more than one-third of United States adults are obese, and millions suffer from obesity-related conditions, including heart disease, stroke, type-2 diabetes, and many forms of cancer – which lead to premature death. Hopefully, with the help of independent scientists and holistically-minded educators, we’ll achieve critical mass (soon) about the importance of living a healthy lifestyle and implementing safer solutions for the obesity crisis before it’s too late for our society. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Cell.com MedicalDaily.com Cornell.edu AnnualReviews.org To read the original article click here.

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Gut Microbes Play a Key Role in Regulating Stress Responsiveness Throughout the Day

The AHA! Team — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 06:22:36 +0000

University College Cork via EurekAlert! – New Research by Prof John Cryan and Dr Gabriel Tofani et al from APC Microbiome Ireland based in University College Cork has uncovered the vital role that the gut microbiome plays in regulating stress responses by interacting with the body’s circadian clock. Key Findings: New research from reveals that the gut microbiome regulates the body’s diurnal (day-night) rhythms in stress hormones. Depletion of gut microbiota results in disruptions in the brain’s core circadian system, and is associated with altered stress hormone rhythms. The research highlights that gut microbes also regulates key stress-responding brain regions throughout the day. Using microbe transplantation, the team confirmed that oscillations of gut microbes across the day are critical for regulating stress hormone secretion. A pioneering study has uncovered the vital role that gut microbiota plays in regulating stress responses by interacting with the body’s circadian rhythms. The findings open the door for developing new microbial-based therapies that could help individuals better manage stress related mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression which are often associated with alterations in circadian and sleep cycles. This breakthrough research from University College Cork and APC Microbiome Ireland – a Research Ireland Centre – offers compelling evidence that the trillions of microorganisms in the gut orchestrate the body’s hormonal responses to stress in a time-dependent manner, paving the way for new therapeutic approaches targeting the gut-brain axis. Published in Cell Metabolism, this study shines a spotlight on the intricate relationship between the gut microbiota and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, the body’s central stress response system. The research demonstrates that depletion of gut microbiota leads to an hyperactivation of the HPA-axis in a time-of-day specific manner, which alongside with alterations to the brain’s stress and circadian responding regions, results in altered stress responsivity across the day. The study further identifies specific gut bacteria, including a Lactobacillus strain (Limosilactobacillus reuteri), as key influencers of this circadian-regulated stress mechanism. L. reuteri emerged as a candidate strain that modulates glucocorticoid secretion (stress hormones), linking the microbiota’s natural diurnal oscillations with altered stress responsiveness. This groundbreaking discovery opens up new possibilities for psychobiotic interventions aimed at improving mental health outcomes by targeting gut bacteria that influence stress regulation. Impact and Implications With modern lifestyles increasingly disrupting circadian rhythms through irregular sleep patterns, high stress, and poor diet, this research underscores the importance of the gut microbiota in maintaining the body’s natural stress-regulation processes. Speaking about the findings, Principal Investigator Professor John Cryan said, “Our research has revealed an important link between the gut microbiota and how the brain responds to stress in a time-specific way. The gut microbiome doesn’t just regulate digestion and metabolism; it plays a critical role in how we react to stress, and this regulation follows a precise circadian rhythm. These findings underscore the importance of maintaining a healthy microbiome, particularly for those living in today’s stressful and fast-paced environment.” First author Dr Gabriel Tofani added “Our findings underscore the importance of not only the gut microbiota composition, but also how gut microbes change across the day. By showing that gut bacteria influence how the body handles stress throughout the day, we’re helping to understand the mechanisms through which the microbiota shapes our responses to the environment around us. Our work also demonstrates that exploring this relationship between the gut microbiota and circadian rhythms will be key in the development of microbiota based therapies for the stress-related disorders in the future”. “This study is a significant leap forward in our understanding of how the microbiome shapes our mental health,” said Professor Paul Ross, Director of APC Microbiome Ireland. “At APC, we are committed to unravelling the many ways in which our gut microbiome impact human health, and this research provides crucial insight into how targeting specific bacteria may help manage or even prevent stress-related conditions. The potential to improve mental health through microbiome-based interventions is very real, and this study takes us one step closer to that goal.” The study was conducted at APC, a global leader in microbiome research based at University College Cork. Professor Cryan’s team has long been at the forefront of gut-brain axis research, and this new discovery adds to the growing body of evidence that gut bacteria have far-reaching effects on mental and physical health. ‘Gut Microbiota Regulates Stress Responsivity via the Circadian System’ is published online via Cell Metabolism which has an impact factor of 28. Read here https://www.cell.com/cell-metabolism/fulltext/S1550-4131(24)00399-1. Journal Cell Metabolism DOI 10.1016/j.cmet.2024.10.003 To read the original article click here.

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New Study Uncovers the Alzheimer’s Gut Microbiome Connection

The AHA! Team — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 06:23:10 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – Recent studies have uncovered a fascinating link between Alzheimer’s disease and a lower risk of developing certain cancers, particularly colorectal cancer. One new study in rodents has found that mice exhibiting Alzheimer’s-like symptoms were less likely to develop colorectal cancer, suggesting a protective effect of Alzheimer’s-related changes in the gut microbiome. The researchers observed that when these mice received a fecal transplant from healthy mice, their likelihood of developing colorectal cancer increased, indicating that the gut microbiome plays a pivotal role in this relationship. Specifically, the study identified the bacterial genus Prevotella as a key player, which seems to modulate inflammation and immune response. The researchers hypothesize that the “leaky gut” observed in Alzheimer’s disease allows microbial byproducts to circulate more easily, reducing inflammation in the gut and subsequently lowering cancer risk. This research provides experimental evidence supporting an inverse relationship between Alzheimer’s disease and cancer, which has been noted in previous epidemiological studies as well. Some human studies have found a lower risk of Alzheimer’s in patients with cancer and vice versa, although the underlying mechanisms were unclear until now. This discovery has opened doors to potential therapeutic approaches that target the gut microbiome to reduce the risk of both Alzheimer’s and colorectal cancer. While still in its early stages, the findings underscore the complex relationship between the brain, gut, and disease, offering hope for future treatments.a This study, along with earlier findings, highlights the importance of exploring gut-brain interactions when examining chronic diseases like Alzheimer’s. Building on the intriguing relationship between Alzheimer’s disease and cancer discussed in the article, it is becoming increasingly clear that the gut microbiome plays a significant role in both neurological health and cancer prevention. Recent studies, including the one from Hebei Medical University, suggest that the composition of gut bacteria may not only affect the development of Alzheimer’s but also provide a protective shield against certain cancers, such as colorectal cancer. This research opens the door to a broader understanding of how probiotics and prebiotics influence the gut, potentially preventing or reducing the risk of these diseases. Probiotics: The Powerhouses of Gut Health Probiotics, or beneficial bacteria, are integral to maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. Certain strains of probiotics have been shown to have powerful health benefits beyond digestion, including their role in immune modulation and cognitive function. Lactobacillus acidophilus: Known for aiding digestion, particularly in breaking down lactose, this strain also produces substances that inhibit harmful bacteria, fostering a healthy gut environment. Bifidobacterium bifidum: This strain supports the digestion of complex carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, while also enhancing immune function and reducing inflammation. Lactobacillus rhamnosus: Effective in preventing gastrointestinal infections, this strain also offers benefits for the skin and mental health, reducing anxiety and depression symptoms. Saccharomyces boulardii: A probiotic yeast, S. boulardii helps protect the gut from pathogenic infections, especially in those taking antibiotics, and promotes overall gut health. These strains help create a balanced gut microbiome, essential for overall health, including immune system support and possibly reducing inflammation that could lead to diseases like cancer. The Importance of Prebiotics While probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria into the gut, prebiotics serve as food for these probiotics, helping them thrive and multiply. Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that foster the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. They are critical in maintaining a healthy gut, as they support the body’s natural ecosystem and help balance the microbiome. Why Prebiotics Matter: Promote Healthy Gut Flora: Prebiotics feed the probiotics, helping them maintain a healthy balance in the gut. This balance is crucial for digestion, immunity, and overall health. Support Immune Function: By fostering the growth of beneficial bacteria, prebiotics help keep harmful pathogens at bay, ensuring a strong immune system. Improve Digestive Health: Prebiotics enhance digestion and reduce the risk of common issues like bloating, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Enhance Mineral Absorption: Prebiotics improve the body’s ability to absorb important minerals like calcium and magnesium, which are essential for bone health and other bodily functions. Best Sources of Prebiotics Prebiotics are found naturally in many plant-based foods. Some excellent sources include: Chicory Root: One of the richest sources of inulin, chicory root is a powerful prebiotic that helps nourish gut bacteria. Garlic: High in fructooligosaccharides (FOS), garlic supports the growth of good bacteria and has natural antibacterial properties. Onions: Onions, like garlic, are rich in inulin and FOS, making them an excellent prebiotic. Asparagus: Asparagus is another vegetable high in inulin, providing an optimal environment for beneficial bacteria. Bananas: Rich in resistant starch, bananas promote healthy gut bacteria and aid digestion. Foods That Boost the Gut Microbiome Alongside probiotics and prebiotics, certain foods can enhance the overall health of the gut microbiome: Fermented Foods: Fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi introduce beneficial bacteria directly into the gut. These probiotic-rich foods are essential for a balanced microbiome and improved digestion. Leafy Greens: Vegetables such as spinach and kale are excellent for gut health because they are rich in fiber and antioxidants that nourish gut bacteria. Bone Broth: Bone broth is packed with amino acids like glutamine, which supports gut lining health and reduces inflammation. Berries: Berries contain high levels of polyphenols, which act as antioxidants and promote a healthy gut by reducing inflammation. Conclusion The recent study linking Alzheimer’s disease to a reduced incidence of colorectal cancer brings to light the complex relationship between gut health, cognitive function, and disease prevention. Probiotics and prebiotics are critical to maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, which may help mitigate the risks of both cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Incorporating a diet rich in fermented foods, leafy greens, and prebiotic-rich vegetables can be a powerful step toward optimizing gut health and supporting overall well-being. This research emphasizes that by nurturing the gut, we are nurturing our whole body, potentially reducing the risks of life-threatening conditions like cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. Neuroscience News Knowridge To read the original article click here.

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Quinoa Boosts Gut Health in SURPRISING Ways, Study Suggests

The AHA! Team — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 08:35:12 +0000

Patrick Tims via NaturalHealth365 – Gut health is key to overall well-being, influencing everything from immunity to mood. While stress, genetics, and diet all impact gut health, what we eat is especially important. A recent study published in Frontiers in Nutrition spotlights quinoa – often mispronounced but highly nutritious – for its bioactive compounds that support a healthy gut. This versatile seed, available in tan or red, cooks up to look like rice or couscous and is a gut-friendly addition to any meal. Research reveals the secret of quinoa’s unique bioactive compounds Scientists have recently uncovered the secrets behind quinoa’s remarkable health benefits, particularly its positive impact on gut health. This ancient grain, native to South America’s Andes Mountains, has been the subject of extensive research focusing on its bioactive compounds and their effects on intestinal microflora. Interestingly, the health benefits of quinoa aren’t limited to just one variety. Whether you prefer the classic white/tan quinoa or opt for its red or black counterparts, you’ll reap the same gut health benefits. But that’s not all – this superfood is packed with fiber, minerals, vitamins, and protein. One of quinoa’s key strengths lies in its ability to boost the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in our bodies. These compounds play a crucial role in maintaining gut health. What’s more, quinoa helps balance the acidity levels in our intestines, further promoting digestive health. Given that our gut microbiota significantly influences our risk of chronic diseases, these benefits could have far-reaching implications for our overall health. These findings stem from an extensive review of 85 scientific papers studying quinoa’s unique biochemical makeup. The research examined the efficacy of quinoa’s bioactive compounds and their nutritional benefits, even exploring the specific roles of individual biopeptides, polysaccharides, polyphenolic compounds, and saponins. Speaking of saponins, these bitter-tasting compounds (triterpene glycosides) are key in optimizing gut microbiota function. Meanwhile, quinoa’s polyphenolic compounds work to regulate digestive enzymes and boost intestinal immunity by increasing the number of protective goblet cells. Quinoa’s polysaccharides act as prebiotics, nourishing beneficial gut bacteria. Combined with quinoa’s dietary fiber, they can even help curb weight gain on high-fat diets. As if that weren’t enough, quinoa proteins are a natural source of ACE inhibitory peptides, supporting gut and heart health. In short, quinoa is a nutrition powerhouse, offering many health benefits that extend far beyond basic sustenance. It’s no wonder quinoa has become such a staple in health-conscious diets around the world. The benefits of quinoa extend far beyond gut health In addition to enhancing gut health, the consumption of quinoa also helps with weight management and assists in the prevention of the onset of obesity. Moreover, consuming quinoa also helps prevent liver cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and even colon cancer. Such health benefits result from regulatory effects on the gut’s intestinal flora, a phenomenon that reveals the strong connection between the human gut, liver, brain, and other internal organs. However, if you are like most people, you either haven’t tried quinoa or aren’t sure how to mix it into your meals. Creative ways to incorporate quinoa into your diet Quinoa with lemon juice makes an excellent side for a dinner entrée. You can also add quinoa to berries, cereal, and oatmeal. When combined with the right ingredients, a bowl of quinoa makes a great main course. Add spinach, diced pepper, and lemon juice to a bowl of quinoa, and you’ll have a protein-packed, gut-boosting entrée that pleases the taste buds. Sources for this article include: Frontiersin.org News-medical.net To read the original article click here.

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Sequencing Reveals Eye Microbiome Variances Linked to Dry Eye

The AHA! Team — Wed, 15 May 2024 08:07:23 +0000

American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology via News-Medical – Researchers have used advanced sequencing technology to determine how the mix of microbes present in patients with healthy eyes differs from the mix found in patients with dry eye. The new work could lead to improved treatments for various eye problems and for diseases affecting other parts of the body. Researchers have used advanced sequencing technology to determine how the mix of microbes present in patients with healthy eyes differs from the mix found in patients with dry eye. The new work could lead to improved treatments for various eye problems and for diseases affecting other parts of the body. Microbial communities in and on our body -; collectively referred to as the human microbiota -; play an essential role in keeping us healthy. Although many studies have focused on microbial communities in our gut, understanding the microbiota present in other body sites is critical for advancing our knowledge of human health and developing targeted interventions for disease prevention and treatment. “Once we understand the eye microbiota properly, it will improve disease diagnosis at an early stage. This knowledge can also serve as a catalyst for developing innovative therapies aimed at preventing and treating ocular disease as well as those that affect the central microbiome site: the gut.” -Alexandra Van Kley, research team leader, professor at Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas Pallavi Sharma, a graduate student in Van Kley’s lab, will present the research at Discover BMB, the annual meeting of the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, which will be held March 23–26 in San Antonio. “Human microbiome research suggests a strong connection between the gut microbiome and the brain and eyes,” said Sharma. “Any alteration in the gut microbiome affects other organs and can lead to disease. Therefore, we are trying to identify patterns of an imbalance between the types of microbes present in a person’s ocular microbiome for people with different health problems.” For the study, the researchers collected eye samples from 30 volunteers using a swab and then performed 16S rRNA sequencing and bioinformatic analysis to determine the microbiome distribution for patients with healthy eyes and those with dry eyes. The analysis showed that Streptococcus and Pedobacter bacteria species were the most prevalent microbes in healthy eyes while more Acinetobacter species were present in the eye microbiomes of people with dry eye. “We think the metabolites produced by these bacteria are responsible for dry eye conditions,” said Sharma. “We are performing further research to understand the metabolic pathways associated with the Acinetobacter to better understand the disease.” Next, the researchers would like to explore the gut microbiome of the patients with dry eye to better understand how it related to the eye microbe differences they observed. Source: American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology To read the original article click here.

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Is Flatulence Good for You? (Does It Depend on the Smell?)

The AHA! Team — Mon, 13 May 2024 08:00:18 +0000

Jillian Levy, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Most of us have been there: experiencing excessive farting that feels out of our control and causes a whole heck of a lot of embarrassment. While the average person farts nearly every day, some people deal with a bloated stomach and excessive flatulence more often than others. One of the most aggravating things about having gas is that it can seem impossible to minimize and to narrow down the exact culprit, considering dozens of different things can potentially be to blame. As you’ve probably experienced firsthand many times, some farts can be pretty foul-smelling and noisy, while others easily slip below the radar. Wondering how much farting is too much? A mostly healthy person might pass gas 14–18 times per day, sometimes not even realizing it because the farts are mostly silent and odorless. A mostly healthy person might pass gas 14–18 times per day Rather than how often you fart, however, you might want to take a look at the smelliness of your flatulence and to examine other digestive symptoms present in order to determine if it’s really become a problem. Is there likely anything to be worried about when it comes to your gas? Yes and no. Some flatulence is normal, especially when eating a whole foods, high-fiber diet — but excessive gas coupled with other symptoms can be a sign that something inside is going wrong, especially when it comes to digestion of certain foods. Too much farting can be a warning sign that normal intestinal gas dynamics have become compromised. This might result in subtle dysfunctions in intestinal motility, bacteria growth or changes in the microbiome composition taking place. Keep reading to learn more about flatulence and when you should and should not be concerned about your farts. What Is Flatulence? What is a fart exactly? A fart, also called gas, “passing wind” or flatulence, is caused by the internal buildup of gases that are formed during the process of digestion and respiration. The causes of farts, and how they develop within the digestive tract vary considerably depending on the person and circumstance. The main type of gas that gets trapped inside the body and leads to flatulence is nitrogen, which researchers estimate accounts for about 20 percent to 90 percent of all the gas that causes farts. Followed by nitrogen, carbon dioxide also contributes to the gaseous volume of farts (about 10 percent to 30 percent) along with oxygen (up to 10 percent), methane (around 10 percent) and hydrogen (about 10 percent to 50 percent). Methane and hydrogen are actually both flammable gases — which explains why you might have seen some cartoon characters light their farts with a flame when you were a kid. The combination of gases described above usually causes a smell because some contain sulfur, the same smelly compound found in foods like eggs or cruciferous vegetables. Why is there such a range in the percentages of gases within a fart and the level of smelliness, depending on the specific person? This has to do with how much air is swallowed by someone in a typical day, the types of foods within someone’s diet, and also the internal chemical reactions taking place within the microbiome or intestines during digestion. The severity of smells associated with flatulence mostly has to do with the percentage of different gases present in the body at any given time. Surprisingly, most of the gas within a fart is odorless, and only a very small percent (around 1 percent) causes the signature foul smell of farts. The reason for stinkiness in general comes down to how much sulfurous gasses form within the intestines. Within a fart, several sulfur-related compounds develop that contribute to the intensity of the fart’s smell. These include: Hydrogen sulphide: This is the component of a fart that usually smells like rotten eggs. Not only does it smell unpleasant, but it’s also flammable and can be toxic when consumed in large amounts. The human body makes some of its own hydrogen sulphide, but interestingly, it’s also produced within the environment in things like swamps, sewage systems and certain types of explosive volcanic rock. Methanethiol: This is found naturally within the human body, mostly within the blood and brain. Ever open up your refrigerator and get a strong whiff of leftover veggies? Methanethiol has a strong smell similar to cruciferous veggies, including broccoli or cabbage. This same compound also contributes to other types of body odors, including bad breath. Dimethyl sulphide: Here’s another chemical compound that contributes to the smelliness of veggies. This is responsible for the smell produced when you cook things like Brussels sprouts. It’s present in foods along with methanethiol and created from the formation of certain bacteria. Causes You’re probably wondering what causes your gas accumulation, right? Excessive gas and gas pains can be attributed to all sorts of health problems, normal variations in hormonal levels that affect digestion (such as your menstrual cycle) or specific foods. While the triggers are somewhat different from person to person, the way that gas forms in the body is mostly the same. Within the body, gas travels down the same pathway in your digestive system as poop does. Eventually, accumulated gas makes its way to through your intestines and out of your colon, just like feces. Along the way, certain things can stop or interfere with the normal release of built-up gas, causing gas pains, bloating and indigestion. This unpleasant feeling is a sign that you’re having a hard time ridding your body of excess gas — possibly because certain foods in your diet are irritating your gut or digestive organs, causing side effects like bacteria growth or fermentation along the way. Bloating and gas usually go hand in hand because when a certain amount of gas is retained within the gut, people develop abdominal distension (a puffy belly) and various gassy symptoms. Just like farting, abdominal distension is related to the volume of gas within the gut and depends both on intestinal motor activity (gas is better tolerated when the gut and digestive muscles are relaxed) and the inner distribution of gas. Some of the reasons gas gets trapped inside the body abnormally include: Swallowing air (aerophagia): This involves inadvertently swallowing air that accumulates in the stomach and is then released by belching or farting. This process is triggered by changes in the muscles that control the intake of air, followed by repetitive and ineffective attempts of belching that causes air to be introduced into the stomach. One reason you might be swallowing air and farting as a consequence? You could be eating too fast and therefore not chewing your food properly. Gaseous odor accumulation: Smelly farts are usually the cause of gas produced by colonic bacteria during fermentation of unabsorbed food residues arriving into the colon. Changes in the microflora: Gas also depends on the composition of the colonic flora — in other words the type of bacteria living within the digestive system. We know that each person is different in terms of microbiome composition, which means inter-individual variations exist that might contribute to, or protect us from, excessive gas production and evacuation. Constipation: Impaired anal evacuation produces gas retention. Constipation also prolongs the fermentation process of foods in the digestive system, increasing internal gas production. Here’s the million-dollar question: Why do some farts make a noticeable sound, while others are “silent but deadly”? This has to do with the alignment of muscles within your colon or rectum. Certain muscles help control how quickly gas is released, either tightly keeping gases inside or allowing them to be released more quickly, which can cause a sound. Know someone who can “fart on demand”? That’s likely because that person’s sphincter muscles, the ones that control the gateway of gas and waste out of the body, are easily relaxed, which lets them release internal gases whenever they want to. Of course, diet has an effect on flatulence as well, and underlying conditions can contribute to gas and farting. Are Farts Bad for You (or Beneficial)? Farting is considered a normal reaction within the human body and something we all deal with at one time or another. Because it’s the act of releasing internal gas from the body, just like a burp or even breathing, it’s usually harmless and in fact needed for normal metabolic functions. Most of the time your farts are just inconvenient but not something to necessarily get riled up about. In fact, they might even be protective in some instances! That’s right — your farts might be a clue that your “gut bugs” are well-fed and working hard and that your diet is a mostly healthy one. Diets high in fiber-rich foods after all tend to cause gas, but they also feed good bacteria that make up your immune system and help protect you from various diseases, like heart disease, cancer, diabetes and obesity. Aside from being a sign that you’re eating plenty of fiber, gases within your farts might even be beneficial. Farts contain hydrogen sulphide, a gas produced by certain natural bodily processes and needed as part of cellular functions. While I wouldn’t necessarily go smelling yours, or anyone else’s, farts just yet, it’s possible that inhaling hydrogen sulphide (yes, from your very own farts!) in small doses might help protect cells’ mitochondria and stop cellular damage at some level. On the other hand, excessive farting can be a sign that digestive processes are going amuck and that an underlying issue might be blame. Some underlying reasons for excessive gas accumulation can include: food sensitives or intolerances (see the list of common culprits below) fermentation of bacteria within the gut from eating FODMAP foods leaky gut syndrome or digestive disorders, including Crohn’s, celiac disease and irritable bowel syndrome constipation SIBO (small intestinal bacteria overgrowth)/excessive bacteria in the small intestine. Normally food intermingles with digestive juices in the intestines and nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream while waste is sent to the colon, but with SIBO, malabsorption occurs, particularly of fat-soluble vitamins and iron, leading to abnormal bacteria growth and gas. How do you know if your gas is something to actually be worried about? Check if you experience other warning signs at the same time as being very gassy. When you’re up against a lot of flatulence, look for other abnormal symptoms including: weakness or fatigue skin rashes, acne or hives signs of allergies, like watery eyes and itchy throat constipation or diarrhea blood in your stool or urine pain around your lymph nodes, including in your groin, throat or armpits changes in your body temperature, weight, sleep and menstrual cycle Natural Remedies If you find yourself repeatedly dealing with bad gas, the first thing to do is address your diet. You might be having trouble breaking down certain foods or experiencing an accumulation of sulfur, bacteria or yeast. The tendency for foods to cause excessive gas varies from person to person considerably, so it usually takes some trial and error to figure out what your biggest triggers are. That being said, there are some “common culprits” in the world of farting that are likely involved in your struggle. Some of the Worst Foods for Gas Beans: Perhaps more than any other food, beans are notorious for causing gas. That’s because they contain a type of carbohydrate called polysaccharides, which easily ferment once they enter the gut. The bacteria living in your gut thrive off of these carbohydrates, which causes fermentation and an increase in gas. Luckily you don’t have to avoid beans and legumes all together — soaking them overnight prior to cooking helps make them more digestible (the same applies to nuts, which are similar in terms of their carb content), which is good news considering they can provide plenty of nutrients and fiber. Dairy: Lactose intolerance is a common digestive problem worldwide, although many people might be unaware that they cannot properly digest foods containing milk, cheese, yogurt or traces of...

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Incredible Bacterium Prevents Disease

AHA Publisher — Mon, 31 Oct 2022 07:00:19 +0000

Al Sears, MD, CNS – Researchers made a startling discovery… A never-before-recorded new gut bacterium with impressive disease-preventing properties. Researchers in Belgium spent two years examining 12,000 microbiome samples collected from all over the world. During their research, they came across something no one had ever seen before… A new “gut bug.” They named their new discovery Dysosmobacter welbionis. Dysosmobacter exists in about 70% of the population. But it’s almost nonexistent in patients with chronic diseases like diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome.1,2 What makes this discovery so exciting is that Dysosmobacter welbionis produces a critical metabolite called butyrate. Butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid, is generated by beneficial bacteria that thrive in your digestive tract. Its ability to keep you healthy is stunning. In fact, butyrate has been shown to: Lower insulin resistance and improve blood sugar3 Boost mitochondrial energy in cells4 Tamp down inflammation by shielding you from leaky gut syndrome5 Stimulate your brain to grow more neurons6 Relieve Crohn’s disease and inflammatory bowel disease 7 Alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety8 Modulate your immune response to keep it from overreacting9 And the latest research shows that butyrate exhibits “extraordinary anti-cancer activities.”10 Unfortunately, today’s high-glycemic, processed foods destroy the beneficial bacteria that create butyrate in the gut. And that sets the stage for what I call Syndrome Zero. But there is good news: Once you rebalance your gut biome, butyrate flourishes and your risk of chronic disease plummets. Here’s what I recommend… Start Your Own Gut-Flora Revival I always advise my patients to start with natural nutrients. Most doctors will never tell you this, but butter or clarified ghee made from the milk of grass-fed cows are two of the best sources of butyrate. In fact, the word butyrate comes from the Latin word butyrum, meaning butter. Upping your intake of prebiotic fiber is another smart move. Butyrate-friendly bacteria love almonds, garlic, apples, kiwi fruits, chickpeas, asparagus, Jerusalem artichokes, and avocados. Beyond nutritional changes, here are three butyrate-boosting steps for you to follow… Three Simple Steps To Protect Your Health Ban these butyrate-killers. Obviously, you want to avoid consuming an excess of processed carbs and sweets. Buy grass-fed beef to avoid ingesting the antibiotics routinely fed to most livestock and poultry. Try to buy organic veggies… And be sure to avoid artificial sweeteners since fake sugars harm beneficial flora. Add inulin and XOS. Inulin is a non-digestible fiber. Once it reaches the large intestine, it turns into a prebiotic that feeds a host of butyrate-producing microbes. Fresh chicory root is your best source of inulin. Many butyrate-producing microbes also love to dine on another plant fiber called XOS (xylooligosaccharides). This little-known prebiotic is found in bamboo shoots, corn husks, and eucalyptus wood. But who wants to eat that. I recommend supplements. When it comes to XOS, be sure to check the label. Make sure the label specifies xylooligosaccharides, and keep an eye on portion size, too. My advice is only buy supplements that offer at least a 2.8 gram portion of XOS. That’s the level at which XOS really becomes effective. But go easy at first, start with a gram a day. Then gradually increase up to five grams. Supplement with butyrate. Studies show that low dosages (below 3.5 grams daily) of butyrate supplements are the most beneficial to your digestive tract. But excessive rates (above 7 grams daily) can disrupt the intestinal barrier. Start with 500 mg a day and build up to 2 or 3 grams over a period of four or five weeks. You should always take butyrate with healthy fatty acids like omega-3 to replenish your cell membranes. To Your Good Health, Al Sears, MD, CNS References: 1 “A New Bacteria, Made in Belgium (and UCLouvain).” EurekAlert!, 9 June 2021, accessed September 2021. 2 Le Roy T, et al. “Dysosmobacter Welbionis Is a Newly Isolated Human Commensal Bacterium Preventing Diet-Induced Obesity and Metabolic Disorders in Mice.” Gut. 2021 Jun 8;gutjnl-2020-323778. doi: 10.1136/gutjnl-2020-323778. Online ahead of print. 3 Gao Z, et al. “Butyrate Improves Insulin Sensitivity and Increases Energy Expenditure in Mice.” Diabetes. 2009. 58(7);1509–17. 4 Rose S, et al. “Butyrate Enhances Mitochondrial Function during Oxidative Stress in Cell Lines from Boys with Autism.” Translational Psychiatry. 2018. 8(1)10:1038/s41398-017-0089-z. 5 Canani R. “Potential Beneficial Effects of Butyrate in Intestinal and Extraintestinal Diseases.” World J Gastroenterol 2011. 17(12):1519. 6 “Modulating Gut Microbe Populations to Generate More Butyrate, Thus Raising BDNF Levels and Improving Cognitive Function.” Fight Aging! 2019. 7 Gevers D, et al. “The treatment-naïve microbiome in new-onset Crohn’s disease.” Cell Host Microbe. 2014 Mar 12; 15(3): 3828392. 8 Varela RB, Valvassori SS. “Sodium butyrate and mood stabilizers block ouabaininduced hyperlocomotion and increase BDNF, NGF and GDNF levels in brain of Wistar rats.” J Psychiatr Res. 2015 Feb;61:114-21 9 Chang PV, Hao L, et al. “The microbial metabolite butyrate regulates intestinal macrophage function via histone deacetylase inhibition.” Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 2014 Feb 11;111(6):2247-52. 10 Williams E,et al. “Anti-Cancer Effects of Butyrate: Use of Micro-Array Technology to Investigate Mechanisms.” Proc Nutr Soc. 62(1):107-115. To read the original article click here.

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Taking Probiotics? Read This First

AHA Publisher — Fri, 07 Oct 2022 07:00:16 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – By now, you’ve surely heard that many human health ailments begin in the digestive tract. They can stem from digestive issues, and they can become more inflamed due to digestive inflammation. But, there is good news. The digestive tract, which holds the majority of the body’s immune components, can also fight these ailments if it’s healthy. In fact, you can fortify your digestive tract to fight better each day by taking probiotics. The Issue With Taking Probiotics Ready to start taking probiotics? Not so fast. There are also major issues with many probiotics supplements. In fact, some probiotics do not live through digestion, do not remain viable in the small intestine, do not adhere to the mucosa, and do not become an established working part of the native microbiota. They often contain little proven bacterial strains for human health. What a waste of time and money! It’s vital to know which probiotic strains actually help human health, and which formulations work best to deliver the probiotics into the gut while they are still viable. Amazing Probiotic Strains for Human Health Again, not all strains of probiotic bacteria are equal. Some bacteria strains can cause damage, some are neutral, and some are amazing allies to digestive health and whole body health. A few great probiotic strains you’ve maybe never heard of include: BACILLUS COAGULANS Bacillus Coagulans are naturally-occurring fermented bacteria found in sauerkraut, kimchi, and yogurt. Amazingly, studies have found that bacillus coagulans significantly improve symptoms of digestive ailments, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, flatulence, abdominal distention, and constipation in those who suffer from them (1, 2). They also affect joints. One study analyzed B. coagulans‘ effect on inflammation in the joints of participants with arthritic symptoms. The researchers found that participants who took B. coagulans reported less disability, an improved ability to participate in daily activities like long walks, and reduced C-reactive protein (CRP, a marker of inflammation) (3). Lastly, B. coagulans may also support immune function. One small study found increased T cell production (immune cells) in participants responding to influenza A and adenovirus when taking B. coagulans. This displays an upregulation in immune system effectiveness (4). BACILLUS SUBTILIS Like B. coagulans, Bacillus subtilis strains may significantly decrease inflammation in the body. In fact, under inflammatory conditions, B. subtilis has significantly reduced the inflammatory protein production in the intestines in research. Data supports Bacillus-based probiotics, like B. Subtilis strains, can improve digestive health by strengthening intestinal barrier and limiting inflammatory responses (5). LACTOBACILLUS PLANTARUM (N13) Another amazing and effective probiotic strain is Lactobacillus plantarum. It is a widespread species of lactic acid bacteria, and it is commonly found in fermented plant products such as sauerkraut, pickles, brined olives, and Korean kimchi. Specifically, L. plantarum is an antioxidant probiotic that fights cell overgrowth, inflammatory responses, fat gain, and unhealthy glucose levels (6). What’s more, L. plantarum is able to produce B-group vitamins including riboflavin and folate in the human body (7). It also supports digestion by increasing absorption of minerals including iron and calcium (8, 9, 10). Lastly, L. plantarum has been found to improve diarrhea, including traveler’s diarrhea and antibiotic-associated diarrhea (11, 12). But L. plantarum doesn’t stop there. It can actually affect skin health and aging skin. In clinical trials, L. plantarum significantly increased the skin water content in the face and hands, and participants experienced a significant reduction in wrinkle depth and appearance in 12 weeks. What’s more, skin elasticity in the probiotic participants improved by 13.17% after 4 weeks and by 21.73% after 12 weeks (13). How? When taken as a probiotic, L. plantarum improves skin hydration, has anti-photoaging (sun) effects, and inhibits the degradation of collagen in human skin (14, 15, 16). Lastly, it improves skin appearance by alleviating symptoms of skin inflammation in humans (17). As if that wasn’t enough, many studies show that L. plantarum supports healthy cholesterol levels, triglycerides, and blood sugars. In one study, supplementation with it reduced total cholesterol by 13.6% after 12 weeks (18)! BIFIDOBACTERIUM BREVE (BBR60) Bifidobacterium breve is a beneficial bacteria found in human breast milk and the gastrointestinal tracts of infant and adult humans. As an individual ages, however, the total population of B. breve in their gut decreases (19). When taken as a supplement, B. breve can affect skin health by increasing skin hydration (20, 21) and reducing the appearance of skin damage from UV exposure (22, 23, 24). Next, B. breve may reduce eczema symptoms, skin inflammation (25), and allergic rhinitis by reducing the inflammatory response to allergens (26). Then, B. breve supports digestive health by promoting the viability of Bifidobacteria and the formation of normal intestinal flora, reducing severity of diarrhea, and alleviating abdominal pain and constipation, as shown in human and animal studies (27, 28, 29). BIFIDOBACTERIUM LACTIS Bifidobacterium Lactis is another probiotic found in the large intestine of humans and other mammals. This one’s likely on your radar; in fact, Bifidobacterium Lactis is one of the world’s most documented probiotics. B. lactis is extremely versatile and beneficial. In fact, it supports: Gut mucosa health Reduced pathogens Intestinal barrier function Immune function Researchers have found that B. Lactis can decrease gastrointestinal discomfort (30), improve oral health(31), support healthy weights (32), decrease antibiotic-related diarrhea (33), and improve immune response (34). More to Consider When Taking Probiotics Now you know. There’s more to it than just picking up a generic probiotic supplement at your grocer. Some strains really promote human health. What’s more, some probiotics formulations go beyond the strains of bacteria. They: Have been extensively studied to remain viable, incorporate into the microbiota, proliferate, and impact health in humans. Functionally improve the structure, communication, and health of gut cells. Support brain health by reducing inflammation and encouraging healthy brain-gut axis communication and interaction. Thrive in the intestines partly because they also contain prebiotic fiber such as Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and Glactoogosaccharides (GOS). Fight pathogens from spoiled foods, viruses and bacteria to promote year-round health. Ready to Start Taking Probiotics? As with all Divine Health supplements, Dr. Colbert has gone through the painstaking process of developing a probiotic supplement he believes will help people the most. It contains each of these bacteria strains, remains viable through digestion, and impacts human health throughout the body. Now, you can try it for yourself and buy Divine Health Biotics! If you are looking to support your gut health, skin health, brain health, and heart health, this is a great option for you. Bottom Line Don’t waste your time and money. If you are already taking probiotics, make sure they are up to par. If you are looking for one, check out the new Divine Health Biotics. It can make a huge difference in your health, from your gut to your brain to everywhere else, starting today! To read the original article click here.

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