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Singapore Scientists Reveal Gut Microbes’ Hidden Role in Anxiety

The AHA! Team — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 20:21:06 +0000

Duke-NUS Medical School via EurekAlert! – Could the key to easing anxiety be hidden in our gut? Scientists from Duke-NUS Medical School and the National Neuroscience Institute have discovered a crucial connection between gut microbes and anxiety-related behaviour. Their research, published today in EMBO Molecular Medicine, suggests that microbial metabolites– specifically indoles–play a direct role in regulating brain activity linked to anxiety. This finding opens up exciting possibilities for new probiotic-based therapies to improve mental health. The prevalence of mental health disorders has been rising over the years. According to the latest nationwide study, 1 in 7 people in Singapore has experienced a mental health disorder, which includes depressive and anxiety disorders[1]. In 2019, mental health disorders were one of the top four leading causes of disease burden in Singapore[2]. The research team thus set out to investigate the role microbes play in anxious behaviour. In pre-clinical studies, the scientists observed that in a germ-free environment, those which were not exposed to live microbes, showed significantly more anxiety-related behaviour than those with typical resident live microbes. Further investigation revealed that the increased anxiety was associated with heightened activity in a brain region involved in processing emotions such as fear and anxiety, the basolateral amygdala (BLA). This was further identified to be related to specialised proteins within brain cells known as the calcium dependent SK2 channels, associated with anxiety behaviour. In conditions when the body and brain are exposed to live microbe metabolites, the SK2 channels act like a clutch, thus preventing neurons from becoming overly excited and firing too frequently. Associate Professor Shawn Je from Duke-NUS’ Neuroscience and Behavioural Disorders Programme and one of the lead authors, explained: “Our findings reveal the specific and intricate neural process that link microbes to mental health. Those without any live microbes showed higher levels of anxious behavior than those with live bacteria. Essentially, the lack of these microbes disrupted the way their brains functioned, particularly in areas that control fear and anxiety, leading to anxious behavior.” The mice showed significantly less anxiety-related behavior To better understand the role of microbes in this process, the researchers introduced live microbes into germ-free mice[3]. This reduced the elevated neuronal activity in the basolateral amygdala and thus SK2 channel activity. As a result, the mice showed significantly less anxiety-related behavior—their emotional responses became like those exposed to microbes. The researchers also tried treatment with indoles, microbial metabolites produced by certain microbes. When the germ-free mice were given indoles, they showed reduced activity in the basolateral amygdala and displayed less anxiety-related behaviour. This demonstrated that our indigenous microbes produce metabolites, which suggest a direct link between our microbiota and maintaining mental balance. Professor Sven Pettersson from the Department of Research, National Neuroscience Institute of Singapore, who is also a lead author of the study, said: “Establishing hunger signals and controlling hunger is an evolutionarily conserved defence mechanism. The physiological switch at birth, can therefore, be viewed as a first major wave of anxiety exposure for the newborn, which simply says, “If you don’t eat, you will die.” Additionally, birth is associated with exposure to breast milk, known to contain microbes that can produce molecules known as indoles. Indoles are known to be secreted in plants when they are exposed to stress or malnutrition (draught) and in this paper we report a similar mechanism in which indoles can regulate anxiety levels in mammals. That is, different levels of circulating microbial plasma indoles in the blood may reflect different sensitivity and vulnerability to stressful situations and therefore variable risk of experiencing anxiety-related situations.” The implications of these observations are multiple: The implications of these observations are multiple: for example, it opens for the therapeutic potential of targeting the gut-brain axis to treat anxiety-related disorders by restoring the microbe composition through dietary supplementation with indoles or by introducing indole-producing gut microbes as probiotics. “In other words, it opens for tailor-made therapies in line with 21st-century precision medicine. Studies such as this illustrate the close hereditary relationship that exists between our indigenous microbes and the higher complexity of life,” concludes Pettersson. Professor Patrick Tan, Senior Vice-Dean for Research at Duke-NUS, said: “Our findings underscore the deep evolutionary links between microbes, nutrition and brain function. This has huge potential for people suffering from stress-related conditions, such as sleep disorders or those unable to tolerate standard psychiatric medications. It’s a reminder that mental health is not just in the brain–it’s in the gut too.” The team now hopes to explore clinical trials to determine whether indole-based probiotics or supplements can be effectively used in humans as a natural anxiety treatment. If successful, this could mark the beginning of a new era in mental health care—one where gut microbes help keep our minds at ease. Referrences [1] Institute of Mental Health, Singapore Mental Health study https://www.imh.com.sg/Newsroom/News-Releases/Documents/SMHS%202016_Media%20Release_FINAL_web%20upload.pdf [2] Ministry of Health 28 October 2020 Global Burden of Disease 2019 Study Findings https://www.moh.gov.sg/news-highlights/details/global-burden- of-disease-2019-study-findings [3] The study was conducted according to the National Advisory Committee for Laboratory Animal Research (NACLAR) guidelines. Journal EMBO Molecular Medicine DOI 10.1038/s44321-024-00179-y To read the original article click here.

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Cystic Acne Treatment Through Dietary Changes & Beyond

The AHA! Team — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 06:11:16 +0000

Annie Price, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Have you ever had large, red, painful breakouts? These cystic acne breakouts can affect both men and women as young as 8 or as old 50. The face is the most common and concerning area of occurrence, but other problem areas can include the chest, back, upper arms and shoulders. Cystic acne, which is way worse than just any old pimple, is actually the most severe form of acne possible. Common medical treatment for cystic acne might work, but some have very serious side effects. A natural way to fight cystic acne is to address the gut-skin connection with the use of probiotics through food, supplements and home remedies for acne. In fact, way back in 1961, a case report found that out of 300 acne patients given a probiotic, 80 percent had clinical improvement. Read on to learn how you can naturally treat your cystic acne and have clear skin once again. What Is Cystic Acne? Also called nodulocystic acne and similar to nodular acne, cystic acne is an intense form of acne that results in large, inflamed cysts and nodules that appear on the skin. Unlike other milder forms of acne, cystic acne is noticeably painful and occurs when oil and dead skin cells build up deep down in hair follicles or pores. Cystic acne is most common during puberty for young boys, but sadly, it can continue into the adult years, especially when there is a hormonal imbalance. For adult women, it’s common to to experience cystic acne around their menstrual cycles, especially on the the jawline and chin, which are the common areas for hormonally motivated breakouts. It’s more serious than hormonal acne, which occurs with both men and women when undergoing significant hormonal changes, such as aging, pregnancy or stress. In contrast, cystic acne can happen at any age because of dietary sensitivities and an overproduction of sebum. Symptoms Acne vulgaris is the medical name for common acne. Acne conglobata, or cystic acne, is a more serious and rarer form of acne that occurs mainly in young men, but it can affect people of both sexes and various ages. When you have cystic acne, your skin’s pores get clogged with oil and dead skin cells and become inflamed. It becomes cystic acne when the pore ruptures underneath the skin, which causes the inflammation to spill out into the surrounding skin tissue. This chain reaction can continue in the skin, triggering wider inflammation, spreading more acne bacteria and more breakouts. Next, your body forms a cyst around the area to stop the inflammation from spreading further. Symptoms of cystic acne include: large, red and painful breakouts on the face, chest, back, upper arms, shoulders and/or thighs nodules that appear as raised, red bumps that generally do not have whiteheads showing — they can resemble a keloid lesions that are usually felt beneath the skin before they’re seen more visible acne that produces cysts and nodules in addition to papules and pustules breakouts that are painful to the touch or even when not touched decrease in self-esteem and mood and increase in psychological distress, especially when cystic acne occurs on the face The unique appearance of a cystic acne is due to the acute damage to the oil gland causing intense inflammation and irritation, which leads to redness, swelling and soreness. Cystic acne is easy to diagnose by a dermatologist and does not require any special tests. Causes Cystic acne can be caused by or related to: Genetics Hormonal changes, including polycystic ovary syndrome High levels of humidity and sweating Pore-clogging and irritating face and body care products Some drugs and chemicals (for example, corticosteroids, lithium, phenytoin, isoniazid), which may worsen or cause eruptions that are similar to acne Cystic acne often runs in families. If one or both of your parents had severe cystic acne, then you have a greater chance of having it as well. It’s most common in teenage boys and young men. It’s believed that hormones called androgens can play a part in the development of cystic acne in teens when there is an increase in androgens. This increase leads to changes in your skin that can result in clogged pores and acne. Cystic acne doesn’t only affect men, though. For women, hormone changes that trigger cystic acne can be brought on by menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopause. Conventional Treatment Cystic acne is the most severe form of acne, but over-the-counter remedies aren’t always enough to treat this form of acne. If any, benzoyl peroxide is a topical antibacterial treatment that is most often used to treat acne and may help less severe cystic acne. Instead, many people opt to see a dermatologist in order to get diagnosed and then prescribed medications to treat cystic acne. The most effective conventional medicine for cystic acne is isotretinoin (Accutane), which actually is derived from vitamin A. While most people experience a reduction in acne lesion counts, adverse events are common, especially overly dry skin, mood issues and decreased appetite. If the cystic acne covers a lot of skin, a dermatologist may want to prescribe oral antibiotics. While these can work against the inflammation and bacteria, they don’t address the excess oil or dead skin cells. Because of antibiotic resistance, they should only be used in the short term, if at all. Topical retinoids also may be used and are related to vitamin A, but in general they’re not sufficient to address cystic acne. They can also make your skin red and peel — plus make it very vulnerable to sunburn. Another prescription medication is spironolactone (Aldactone), a diuretic that usually is used for edema as well as high blood pressure. It’s also used for acne but mostly just women who have acne around their jawline. Its side effects can be serious and should not be taken if planning to become pregnant. Natural Remedies 1. Avoid these foods Conventional Dairy: Even if you’re not lactose intolerant, conventional dairy products can be hard on the digestive system. Many people see an improvement in their acne when they cut down or eliminate dairy products like milk, cheese and ice cream. If you want to check if dairy is a culprit, try eliminating it from your diet for two weeks to see if your cystic acne improves. If it does, then you know that dairy is not agreeing with you. You can choose to remain dairy-free, or you can slowly reintroduce dairy back into your diet. Choosing better-quality dairy can be helpful as well. Sugar: Sugar and other high-glycemic foods (like breads and pasta) can make inflammation in your body worse. The more inflammation you have, the worse your cystic acne will be. Try natural sweeteners instead. Consuming excess amounts of sugar and grain products can also feed yeast and candida in the body, increasing the presence of acne on the skin. Caffeine and chocolate: Many experts like to say that there is no link between caffeine and chocolate consumption and breakouts. However, there is no doubt that caffeine consumption has a direct impact on your hormonal balance. In particular, caffeine overdose can raise the stress hormone known as cortisol, which can cause cortisol face. By reducing or eliminating various sources of caffeine, like coffee, tea and chocolate, you can help keep your hormones in better balance and clear up your cystic acne. Low-fiber, highly processed foods: Consuming foods that are low in fiber and highly processed has a direct negative effect on your gut health, which negatively impacts skin health. When you consume processed meat products like cold cuts, breakfast cereals and microwave meals, an unhealthy shift occurs in your inner microbial colonies. This sets off inflammation throughout your entire body, which can bring on a cystic acne flare-up or make any current acne even worse. Fried and fast foods: These foods are also highly processed and low in fiber. Additionally, they contain a number of ingredients that cause inflammation, including hydrogenated oils, sodium, chemicals, flavorings and sugar. 2. Eat these foods Probiotic-rich foods: The healthier your gut is, the better your balance of good versus bad bacteria. When you consume probiotic-rich foods like kefir and cultured vegetables, the probiotics line your gut and create a healthy, sealed barrier that prevents inflammation that can trigger acne. One Korean study of 56 acne patients found that drinking a Lactobacillus-fermented dairy beverage effectively reduced their total acne lesion count and decreased oil production over 12 weeks. High-zinc foods: People with acne tend to be low in zinc so you definitely want to increase your dietary intake of zinc by consuming things like grass-fed beef, chickpeas, pumpkin seeds and cashews to prevent a zinc deficiency. Zinc also supports a healthy digestive tract, which improves skin health. Vitamin A-rich foods: Foods high in vitamin A, like kale, spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots, fight infection and speed healing, two things you definitely need when you’re trying to get rid of cystic acne. Fiber-rich foods: Consuming high-fiber foods like vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds and oatmeal encourages colon cleansing as well as the growth of good bacteria in the gut, both of which can help eliminate cystic acne. High-quality protein foods: Grass-fed beef, organic chicken, wild-caught fish and free-range eggs are high in protein and nutrients and help balance blood sugar, a key component in the fight against cystic acne. Liver-supportive foods: Since hormones are processed in the liver, eating liver-supportive foods can help clear up acne. Eat more cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower as well as leafy greens and high-fiber fruits, such as pears and apple, for improved liver function. 3. Consider taking these supplements Probiotics (10,000 IU to 50,000 IU daily, typically two to three capsules twice daily) — Taking probiotics can boost your immunity and help your internal fight against cystic acne. You can also use probiotic skin care products, which can provide a protective external shield. Studies show that probiotics may help prevent skin eruptions. Omega-3 fatty acids (1,000 milligrams of fish oil/cod liver oil daily or 3,000 milligrams of flaxseed or chia seed oil) — Omega-3 helps reduce inflammation and support hormone balance. One scientific study specifically found that after 10 weeks of omega-3 fatty acid or GLA supplementation, inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions decreased significantly. Zinc (25–30 milligrams twice daily) — Research suggests that people with acne have lower blood and skin levels of zinc. Taking zinc by mouth may help reduce acne. Vitex (160 milligrams of Vitex/chasteberry) — This herbal remedy is specifically recommended for hormonally induced acne. Guggul or guggulsterone (25 milligrams twice daily) — Guggul is made from the sap of a tree native to India. For individuals suffering from cystic acne, a controlled clinical trial found that guggul supplements outperformed 500 milligrams of tetracycline. It’s also been shown to be effective for nodulocystic acne, a similar form of acne that usually targets the face, chest and back. 4. Consider essential oils Essential oils like tea tree and lavender can help fight cystic acne. The best way to use essential oils for acne is to apply two to three drops topically to the area of concern. Tea tree and lavender essential oils are safe for neat (direct) application, but they can also be combined with a carrier oil such as jojoba or coconut oil if you have sensitive skin. A scientific review of the efficacy, tolerability and potential modes of action in regard to the treatment of acne with tea tree oil states that tea tree products reduce lesion numbers in patients with acne, have tolerability levels that are similar to other topical treatments, and have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities that are associated with the treatment of acne. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight when treating acne with essential oils. The UV rays can make your skin more sensitive and may lead to skin irritations or redness. If using any of these essential oils causes skin irritation, discontinue use of that oil. Skin Care Tips 1. No popping Whatever you...

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Improve Your Gut Health With These 9 Simple Strategies

The AHA! Team — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 18:26:46 +0000

Dena Schmidt via NaturalHealth365 – News about the importance of gut health and probiotics linked to overall health has been circulating quite a bit lately. In fact, even conventionally trained doctors are waking up to the importance of maintaining a healthy gut. Of course, it’s understandable because digestive health is the key to every aspect of our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Ultimately, if we ignore our digestion, we’ll eventually pay the unwanted price of poor health. Thankfully, there are several positive steps we can take to support a healthy gut microbiome. In doing so, we will absorb nutrients better, help keep the immune system strong, and enjoy a much better mental/emotional outlook on life. Transform your gut health with 9 essential steps for optimal wellness 1. Digestive enzymes Digestive enzymes assist in breaking down food, reducing inflammation, and regulating immune responses that could otherwise damage tissues. Taking high-quality enzyme supplements with meals can help to address deficits, support digestive health, and optimize nutrition. If you can’t afford this option, at the very least, everyone would benefit from chewing food more to help with digestion. If you’re unsure about your supplement options – consult a trusted holistic healthcare provider or health coach with experience in nutritional counseling. 2. Eat more raw fruits and vegetables Assuming your digestive system can tolerate this, you should be eating more organic fruits and vegetables. By the way, when you these kind of foods (more), you will help to create an ideal balance of digestive enzymes in the gut. While all fruits and veggies contain enzymes, those with the most beneficial effects include spinach, apples, pineapples, carrots, avocados, grapefruits, and tomatoes. If you’re not used to eating this way – start off with smaller amounts and work your way up in volume. 3. Probiotics for better gut health Naturally occurring gut bacteria, such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus, play crucial roles in maintaining our health. These beneficial bacteria enhance the functioning of the intestinal barrier, making it more effective at preventing harmful substances from entering the bloodstream. They help suppress a range of pathogens, including viruses, yeasts, and molds, thereby reducing the risk of infections and illnesses. Friendly gut bacteria also significantly strengthen the immune system. By interacting with the gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT), they help modulate immune responses and promote a balanced immune system, which is essential for defending against diseases while preventing excessive inflammatory reactions. 4. Add fiber to your diet – daily Fiber is essential for healthy digestion and proper intestinal function. In addition to promoting regular bowel movements, fiber supports a healthy gut microbiome and enhances your body’s detoxification pathways. Including a variety of fiber-rich foods in your daily diet can help maintain digestive health, balance gut bacteria, and assist in the removal of toxins from your body. Aim to incorporate both soluble and insoluble fiber sources, such as organic fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, to ensure comprehensive support for your digestive system. 5. Get physical – but don’t overdo it Regular, moderate exercise improves circulation and helps to move toxins out of the body. It also assists with regular bowel movements and oxygenating the blood and cells. No doubt, walking is the best form of aerobic exercise and offers all the benefits of lower blood pressure, greater heart health, and a wonderful sense of reduced stress in your life – at the end of every walk. (20 – 60 minutes/day is best, and if you’re new to exercise, increase your efforts slowly each week) 6. Drink clean, pure water every day Drinking plenty of fresh, clean (purified) water throughout the day will keep every cell in your body healthy and strong. Staying well-hydrated helps rid the body of toxins and improves cellular performance. Note: if you or someone you love is feeling constipated – this is a major health tip: drink more water! Generally speaking, drinking half your body weight in ounces of water is a good place to start. For example, if your body weight is 120 pounds – drink about 60 ounces/day. (At first, this will seem impossible – but, eventually, it’s easy) 7. Eat fermented foods Fermented foods allow you to naturally incorporate key enzymes and probiotics into your diet. Just a small quantity per day can go a long way toward improving your health. Some examples of healthy fermented foods include pickled vegetables, raw sauerkraut, miso soup, tempeh, yogurt, kefir, and kombucha. 8. Chew your food 25 times per mouthful or more This simple step allows you to assist your digestive system in doing its job and improving gut health along the way. The less work your digestive system has to do in terms of breaking food down, the more efficient it can be. There are also the added mental and emotional benefits of chewing your food. In fact, here’s a challenge for you: If you chew your food 50-100 times (for every mouthful of food), you will notice a greater sense of calm than ever before. 9. Be warned: Antibiotics can destroy your gut health Antibiotics have been connected with permanent changes in the microflora of people through generations of families, promoting the transmission of deadly organisms and difficulty in recolonization by beneficial bacteria. Do not overuse antibiotics; if possible, don’t use them at all. Instead, favor natural ways to treat infection and boost the immune system. For instance, garlic, oregano oil, and vitamin C can help neutralize toxins, unfriendly bacteria, and viruses. Bottom line: Gut health status is strongly linked to immune system strength, the ability to absorb (or not) nutrients from the food we eat, and many other essential bodily functions, such as cellular repair and detoxification. These nine steps outlined in this special report will give you a great place to start if you’re looking to improve the quality of your life. Enjoy! Sources for this article include: NIH.gov NYTimes.com LifeExtension.com ChrisKresser.com 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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High-Fiber Diet Associated With Improved Progression-Free Survival and Response to Immunotherapy in Melanoma Patients

AHA Publisher — Mon, 27 Dec 2021 08:00:57 +0000

University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center via Newswise – HOUSTON ― Patients with melanoma who reported eating more fiber-rich foods when they began immunotherapy treatment survived longer without cancer growth than patients with insufficient dietary fiber intake, according to new research from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center published today in Science. The benefit was most noticeable in patients who did not take commercially available probiotic supplements. Parallel pre-clinical studies supported the observational findings. “Research from our team and others has shown that gut microbes impact response to immunotherapy treatment, but the role of diet and probiotic supplements has not been well studied,” said co-senior author Jennifer Wargo, M.D., professor of Genomic Medicine and Surgical Oncology. “Our study sheds light on the potential effects of a patient’s diet and supplement use when starting treatment with immune checkpoint blockade. These results provide further support for clinical trials to modulate the microbiome with the goal of improving cancer outcomes using dietary and other strategies.” Patients who reported eating more fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains met the study threshold for sufficient fiber intake. The 37 patients with sufficient fiber intake had improved progression-free survival (median not reached) compared to the 91 patients with insufficient fiber intake (median 13 months). Every five-gram increase of daily fiber intake was associated with a 30% lower risk of cancer progression or death. When the patients were further grouped according to high- or low-fiber diet and commercially-available probiotic supplement use, response to immunotherapy was seen in 18 of 22 patients (82%) who reported both sufficient fiber intake and no probiotic use, compared to the response seen in 60 of 101 (59%) patients who either reported insufficient fiber intake or probiotic use. Response was defined as complete or partial complete or partial tumor shrinkage or stable disease for at least six months. Probiotic use alone was not associated with a significant difference in progression-free survival or odds of response to immunotherapy. “Dietary fiber is important for gut health, just as it’s important for overall health, and the two things are very tightly intertwined,” said co-senior author Carrie Daniel-MacDougall, Ph.D., associate professor of Epidemiology. “In this study, we saw that dietary fiber also may be important to cancer treatment, which brings us to a point where we can design interventional studies to answer the questions that patients really want answered: ‘Does what I eat now matter and could it impact my treatment outcome?’ We’re united in working to find answers for our patients.” Differences in Gut Microbiota and Pre-Clinical Models The study began with analyzing the gut microbiome profiles of 438 melanoma patients, 321 of whom had late-stage disease and were treated with systemic therapy, and 293 of whom had an evaluable response to treatment over follow-up. The majority of these patients (87%) received immune checkpoint blockade, most commonly PD-1 inhibitors. A total of 158 patients also completed a lifestyle survey of antibiotics and probiotics usage; of these, 128 completed a dietary questionnaire as they began immune checkpoint therapy. The research team reinforced their prior findings, which showed a higher abundance of Ruminococcaceae and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii – well-known and potentially beneficial bacteria involved in the digestion of fiber or starch – in patients who responded to immunotherapy. In contrast to the previous findings, overall diversity of gut bacteria was not associated with response to immunotherapy, potentially due to the larger size of this patient cohort. The researchers also tested higher versus lower fiber diets and probiotic use in several preclinical melanoma models to shed light on the potential mechanisms behind the observational findings from the patient cohorts. In multiple models, probiotic use was associated with impaired response to immune checkpoint blockade, larger tumors, lower gut microbiome diversity and less cytotoxic T cells in the tumor microenvironment. A high-fiber diet was associated with slower tumor growth and significantly higher frequency of CD4+ T cells in pre-clinical models treated with PD-1 inhibitors. Clinical Trial to Build on Findings, Test Effect of Dietary Intervention Based on the early study findings, a randomized clinical trial (NCT04645680), led by co-first author Jennifer McQuade, M.D., assistant professor of Melanoma Medical Oncology, will examine how whole-food-based diets with varying fiber content affect the microbiome and immune response. The study is currently enrolling patients with stage III-IV melanoma who are receiving immunotherapy. “Our research teams within the Program for Innovative Microbiome and Translational Research (PRIME-TR) and Bionutrition Research Core at MD Anderson are collectively working to transform cancer therapy by modifying the microbiome,” Wargo said. “We’re grateful to the patients and families who have participated in our research and are hopeful that this work will ultimately provide evidence-based guidance to help patients take control of their own diets to improve their odds against cancer.” To read the original article click here.

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Probiotics Significantly Improve the Symptoms of Pregnancy-Related Problems

AHA Publisher — Wed, 08 Dec 2021 08:00:23 +0000

University of California – Davis Health via News-Medical – In a first-of-its-kind study, researchers at the UC Davis School of Medicine found that probiotics significantly improve the symptoms of pregnancy-related nausea, vomiting and constipation. The findings were published in the journal Nutrients. Nausea and vomiting affect about 85% of pregnancies and can significantly impact quality of life, particularly during early pregnancy. “The cause of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy is unknown to this date. Various theories have been proposed, but none of them is conclusive. Nausea, vomiting and constipation during pregnancy can significantly diminish the quality of patients’ lives. Once nausea and vomiting during pregnancy progress, they can become difficult to control, and sometimes the patient even needs to be hospitalized.” Albert T Liu, Study Lead Author and Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California – Davis Health Beneficial Microbes Probiotics are referred to as “beneficial bacteria.” They can be found in foods like yogurt, kimchi, kefir, sauerkraut and tempeh. Probiotics are also available as food supplements. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, other than vitamins, probiotics or prebiotics were the third most commonly used dietary supplement for adults. Probiotics are thought to support the community of different microbes, often referred to as the “gut microbiome,” found in the gastrointestinal tract. During pregnancy, hormones like estrogen and progesterone increase, bringing about many physical changes. These increases can also change the gut microbiome, which likely affects the digestive system functions and causes unwanted symptoms like nausea, vomiting and constipation. The researchers set out to determine whether supplementing with a probiotic could be beneficial for gastrointestinal function during pregnancy. The study lasted for 16 days. A total of 32 participants took a probiotic capsule twice a day for six days and then took two days off. They then repeated the cycle. The probiotics were available over-the-counter and mainly contained Lactobacillus., a type of good bacteria. Each capsule contained approximately 10 billion live cultures at the time of manufacture. Participants kept 17 daily observations of their symptoms during the duration of the study, for a total of 535 observations for the researchers to statistically assess. What the researchers found was that taking the probiotic significantly reduced nausea and vomiting. Nausea hours (the number of hours participants felt nauseous) were reduced by 16%, and the number of times they vomited was reduced by 33%. Probiotic intake also significantly improved symptoms related to quality of life, such as fatigue, poor appetite and difficulty maintaining normal social activities, as scored by questionnaires. Probiotics were also found to reduce constipation significantly. “Over the years, I’ve observed that probiotics can reduce nausea and vomiting and ease constipation. It’s very encouraging that the study proved this to be true,” said Liu. “Probiotics have also benefited many of my other patients who weren’t in the study,” said Liu. New Clues From Gut Microbes and Byproducts Participants also contributed fecal specimens before and during the study. The samples were analyzed to identify the type and number of microbes and the different byproducts of digestion. This allowed the researchers to examine whether biomarkers in the fecal specimens corresponded with more severe nausea and assess how the probiotics affected participants who began the study with different baseline biomarkers. One finding was that a low amount of bacteria that carry an enzyme named bile salt hydrolase, which generates bile acid to absorb nutrients, was associated with more pregnancy-related vomiting. Probiotics increase bile salt hydrolase-producing bacteria, which may explain why the supplements decreased levels of nausea and vomiting. Another finding was that high levels of the gut microbes Akkermansia and A. muciniphila at the beginning of the study were associated with more vomiting. The probiotic significantly reduced the amount of those particular microbes and also reduced vomiting. This suggests Akkermansia and A. muciniphila may be reliable biomarkers that can predict vomiting in pregnancy. Another finding was that vitamin E levels increased after taking probiotics. Higher levels of vitamin E were associated with low vomiting scores. “This research provides key insights about the impact of gut microbes on gastrointestinal function during pregnancy. Our gut microbiota explains why we are what we eat, and why bacteria-generated metabolites and products have a huge impact on our health,” said Wan. “They affect the gastrointestinal tract as well as skin health and neurological function.” Although the findings are intriguing, the researchers caution that due to the small sample size, further studies will be needed to confirm the effects of the probiotics. “Our previous work showed the benefits of probiotics in preventing liver inflammation. The current study might be one of the first to show the benefits of probiotics in pregnancy,” said Wan. “It would be interesting and important to further test whether probiotics can reduce nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy in cancer patients.” To read the original article click here.

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UC Researchers Engineer New Probiotic to Target and Break Down Cancer Cell Defenses

AHA Publisher — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 08:00:36 +0000

University of Cincinnati via News-Medical – Bacteria generally have a bad reputation, as people first think of certain strains that can cause serious illnesses like pneumonia or meningitis. However, there are many helpful bacteria, known as probiotics, that assist the body in different ways. University of Cincinnati researchers have now engineered a probiotic designed to target and break down cancer cell defenses, giving therapies an easier way inside to kill tumors. The findings were recently published in the journal Advanced Healthcare Materials. Nalinikanth Kotagiri, PhD, the senior author of this study, an assistant professor in UC’s James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy and a UC Cancer Center member, studies “solid cancers” or those defined as abnormal cellular growths in “solid” organs such as the breast or prostate, as opposed to leukemia, a cancer affecting the blood. Kotagiri explains many solid cancers have an extracellular matrix made up of collagen and hyaluronic acid. The matrix forms a barrier around the cells and makes it harder for antibodies and immune cells to reach the tumors. Shindu Thomas, the first author of this study and a graduate student in the Kotagiri lab, worked with E. coli Nissle, a bacteria that has been used as a probiotic for around 100 years and is different from E. coli strains that cause sickness. Through new technology, any protein or enzyme can be manufactured on the E. coli Nissle bacteria. In this case, the bacteria was engineered to secrete an abundance of smaller structures called outer membrane vesicles on the outer edge of cells. The vesicles carry the same materials present on the bacteria itself, so researchers designed the bacteria to carry an enzyme that breaks down cancers’ extracellular matrix. Kotagiri said bacteria tend to thrive in low-oxygen and immunodeficient environments, two characteristics found in solid cancers. Because of this, the specially designed bacteria are naturally drawn to these cancers. “We took advantage of this unique feature of E.coli Nissle to home and localize into these tumors. And then once bacteria are lodged there, they start making nanoscale vesicles which carry the enzyme much deeper into the tumor matrix.” Nalinikanth Kotagiri, PhD, senior author of the study After creating the new probiotic, researchers studied the bacteria’s effect on animal models of breast and colon cancer. The bacteria is delivered intravenously about four or five days prior to the cancer treatment, allowing the bacteria time to populate and break down the cancer’s defenses and prepare it to take to the treatment. After administering the bacteria and then subsequent doses of either immunotherapy or another pharmaceutical, drugs used in targeted therapy, Kotagiri said mice survived twice as long compared to those given the cancer therapy alone. Imaging showed the bacteria and enzyme were effective at breaking down the extracellular matrix and allowing the therapy to reach the cancer cells. The study found the bacteria affected the tumors but was not attacking healthy cells in other organs like the heart, lungs, liver and brain. Kotagiri said this shows the bacteria can be safe and will not cause infection in other parts of the body, but more research needs to be done to examine its safety in large animal models and potentially humans, particularly in immunodeficient environments. “This always comes with a word of caution as to how you can utilize this strategy without causing any sepsis or any overt infections in the body,” he said. Kotagiri said his lab began to look more closely at how bacterial probiotics can address biomedical problems around 2018, as there are about one to two times as many bacterial cells than human cells in your body at any given time. “There’s bacteria in the gut, on the skin, inside your lungs, inside your mouth, even inside tumors,” Kotagiri said. “So why not take advantage of that and find interesting ways to make them a bit more proactive?” If the engineered bacteria continues to prove itself safe and effective, Kotagiri said there are a wide variety of ways to engineer the bacteria for different uses, including potentially using the bacteria to treat disease conditions in the gut, mouth and skin. There is also potential to engineer the bacteria armed with multiple proteins and molecules to make a monotherapy platform (or therapy that uses one type of treatment) rather than just facilitating combination therapy, he said. “So the bacteria can essentially serve as a mothership that would carry the necessary therapeutic payload to unique niches in the body and from there it’s a self-sustaining entity,” Kotagiri said. “While the possibilities are endless there are also significant challenges. We have to be good stewards of making that kind of evidence possible for the community to understand what are the limits and what can be done.” To read the original article click here.

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Phenomenal: Brand-New Scientific Review Praises Astonishing Antiviral Abilities of Kimchi

AHA Publisher — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 07:00:02 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Kimchi – a mix of fermented, spiced vegetables that features cabbage as a key ingredient – is a traditional Korean specialty with a long history of culinary and medicinal use. In fact, experts say that people have been enjoying the benefits of kimchi for over 3,000 years! While kimchi has long been recognized for its nutritional and probiotic value, it is currently impressing medical researchers with its intriguing antiviral properties. In an important new reviewpublished in Trends in Food and Science Technology, the authors proclaimed kimchi one of the “five healthiest foods in the world” and praised it for its ability to prevent and treat an array of viruses, including those that cause life-threatening respiratory diseases. So let’s take a closer look at this highly promising research on the benefits of kimchi. Review: Benefits of Kimchi Include Boosting the Immune Response In the new review published in July of 2021, the authors focused on Korean functional foods – particularly fermented foods such as kimchi – and their potential for preventing viral infections. The research also shed light on the all-important relationship between nutrition, gut bacteria, and the immune system and showcased the ability of healthy eating patterns to strengthen the immune system – particularly important since the onset of the COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic. The team found that a beneficial type of lactic acid bacteria in kimchi, Lactoplantibacillus Plantarum, not only stimulates the all-important immune response but increases levels of the natural virus-fighting proteins interferon and interleukin. In addition, L. Plantarum interferes with viral replication, combating the ability of viral infections to spread. In one awe-inspiring study cited by the authors, the scientists hypothesized that kimchi could be more effective than Tamiflu – a pharmaceutical antiviral drug considered the “gold standard” of medical treatment for the H1N1 influenza virus. The authors concluded that the regular consumption of kimchi and other traditional fermented foods could offer protection from some viral diseases. Acute respiratory infections (including H1N1) currently claim the lives of roughly 4 million children a year worldwide – a heartbreaking toll. Here Is Why the Gut Microbiome Is Essential for Health According to experts, the gut microbiome – or community of bacteria in the intestinal tract – contains an astonishing 100 trillion bacteria. However, this abundance of intestinal bacteria is no cause for alarm – as most of these microbes are “friendly.” In fact, it’s likely that we would not survive long without them. Among its other essential tasks, the gut microbiome breaks down dietary fiber, produces vitamins such as vitamin K and biotin, helps to regulate the metabolism, influences mood, and cognition, and boosts the immune system, thereby helping to ward off pathogens and disease. And, when necessary, gut bacteria can even help “put the brakes” on an excessive immune response. For example, recent animal research reveals that bacteria in the gut microbiome may help to prevent an overactive immune response by regulating levels of active vitamin A – findings that could play a vital role in the prevention and treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Kimchi’s Constituents Make Up a “Natural Medicine Chest” to Fight Disease It turns out that kimchi has all the right “anti’s” for promoting health. Studies have shown that the benefits of kimchi include antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antidiabetic, and anticancer effects. When it comes to nutrition, kimchi is a powerhouse. Nutrient-rich Napa cabbage – high in vitamin C, vitamin K, iron, calcium, and potassium – is at the heart of most kimchi recipes, which are further enriched with the addition of garlic, onions, ginger, carrots, and chili peppers. The additional vegetables are fermented through saturation with generous amounts of salt, then further flavored with seasonings and spices. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a half-cup of kimchi contains a modest 20 calories, four grams of carbs, one gram of protein, a gram of dietary fiber, and zero fat. Satisfying, tasty, and nutritious, kimchi makes an excellent snack. Kimchi Is Rich in Bioactive Disease-Fighting and Anti-Inflammatory Antioxidants While individual kimchi recipes can vary, you can usually expect to see some seriously healthy ingredients in the mix. For instance, kimchi recipes featuring carrots will be high in carotenoids – natural plant pigments that fight disease – while chili peppers, another common ingredient in kimchi, yield capsaicin – a natural compound with antibacterial, antiviral, anti-obesity, and painkilling properties. Napa cabbage, a mainstay in kimchi, is a member of the super-healthy cruciferous family of vegetables – and features cancer-fighting molecules known as sulforaphanes and isothiocyanates. Ginger, another common kimchi ingredient, contributes powerful antioxidants called shagaols, while the garlic and onions that lend flavor to kimchi provide generous amounts of disease-fighting allicin as well. Additional studies have confirmed the benefits of kimchi and other fermented foods. In a recent study published in Cell, the scientists concluded that fermented foods might be “valuable in countering the decreased microbiome diversity and increased inflammation pervasive in industrialized society” – a strong testament to the benefits of kimchi. Clearly, it’s no accident that knowledgeable researchers have included kimchi in the ranks of the world’s top superfoods, alongside such nutritional superstars as spirulina, turmeric, miso and goji berries. (You knew we were going to eventually reveal the other four contenders)! So, maybe it’s time to make kimchi a regular part of your healthy daily diet. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov ScienceDaily.com VeryWellFit.com

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Mediterranean Chicken Recipe

AHA Publisher — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 07:00:38 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DNM, CN – When it’s time to prepare a weeknight dinner after a busy day, the last thing you want to do is spend a ton of time in the kitchen. Time-consuming meals have their place — my chicken pot pie and garlic lamb roast are worth the time, for instance — but when you need a meal fast, you need something quick, nutritious and delicious. That’s where this Mediterranean chicken recipe comes in. This dish perfectly reflects the Mediterranean diet as well as that region in general, with common ingredients from Italy, Greece and even Turkey. The lean protein is topped with a fresh, easy Mediterranean chicken sauce sauce that pairs well with a green salad, a side of veggies or even a gluten-free pasta. Best of all, it’s a 30-minute meal from start to finish. Key Ingredients There are many Mediterranean chicken recipes out there, including: Mediterranean chicken kabobs Mediterranean chicken thighs Mediterranean chicken salad Mediterranean chicken marinade Mediterranean chicken salad Mediterranean chicken pasta For mine, we make sure it’s as healthy as possible. Here are the key ingredients: Free-range chicken breasts: Make sure your Mediterranean chicken breasts are from free-range chickens. This ensures they aren’t pumped full of antibiotics and hormones and are responsibly raised. Ghee: Ghee is a great alternative to butter, as you can cook with it at high heat, and it’s loaded with benefits, too. It’s loaded with fat-soluble vitamins, free of lactose and casein, supports bone health, and more. Goat cheese: Goat cheese nutrition provides a healthy dose of of good-for-you fats, protein, calcium, probiotics, and several vitamins and minerals. How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Then, in a pan, sauté the garlic, broth and ghee. Once the garlic is fragrant, remove the pan from the heat, and stir in the coconut sugar. Next, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper and onion powder. Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet, and then top it with the garlic-ghee mixture. Sprinkle the goat cheese over the garlic chicken, and top with fresh tomato slices. Bake the chicken for 15–18 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink on the inside. While the chicken cooks, get your sides ready. In a half hour, you’ll have a full meal ready to set on the table. The next time you’re tempted to order takeout, try this Mediterranean version of chicken instead! Mediterranean Chicken Recipe This 30-minute Mediterranean chicken dish perfectly reflects the Mediterranean diet, with common ingredients from Italy, Greece and Turkey. INGREDIENTS 4 chicken breasts 6 garlic cloves 3 tablespoons coconut sugar 2 tablespoons ghee 1 tablespoon chicken broth sea salt and black pepper to taste dash of onion powder tomato slices goat cheese INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 450 F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a pan, sauté garlic, broth and ghee. Remove from heat and stir in coconut sugar. Season chicken with salt, pepper and onion powder. Place chicken on baking sheet and cover with the ghee mixture. Sprinkle goat cheese over chicken and top with tomato slices. Bake uncovered for 15–18 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. To read the original article click here.

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