sauerkraut Archives - Amazing Health Advances

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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Healthy, Homemade Pulled Beef Sliders Recipe

AHA Publisher — Tue, 28 Dec 2021 08:00:37 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DNM, CN – There’s nothing quite like sliders, and personally, I loved pulled beef sliders. Have you made pulled beef before? It’s one of those dishes that can seem super complicated but, in reality, is a cinch to make. That’s because this flavorful beef is prepared in the slow cooker. Over the course of eight to 10 hours with almost zero prep time, the beef is transformed from an everyday steak into a melt-in-your-mouth delight. The best part is yet to come, because we’re going to take that juicy meat and turn it into my pulled beef sliders. Better than a burger, these little sliders pack a ton of deliciousness in a small package. They’re easily prepared with ingredients already in your kitchen and are easily customizable to your family’s favorite preferences. Key Ingredients These beef sliders are far from complicated but oh so delicious. Here are some of the main players in my pulled beef sliders recipe: Beef: You can’t make beef sliders without the beef. Make sure you choose grass-fed beef, which ensures the highest quality and that the cows were treated and fed properly. High in protein and healthy fat while avoiding dangerous antibiotics and chemicals, grass-fed beef can aid heart health and is better for the environment too. Beef broth: One of the healthiest substances you can consume, bone broth benefitshealth in an incredible amount of ways. It can protect joints as a natural source of collagen, is good for the gut, maintains healthy skin, supports the immune system, boost detoxification and aids metabolism. Coconut aminos: Coconut aminos are a great soy sauce substitute. They can help protect heart health, reduce the risk of diabetes, aid weight loss efforts, strengthen the immune system, potentially reduce the risk for colon cancer, promote mental health and possibly even treat PCOS. How to Make Pulled Beef Sliders Start by adding all the ingredients into the slow cooker and letting them come together over low heat for eight to 10 hours. Yes, that’s all the prep that’s required for these pulled beef sliders. I love how just a handful of dried spices, beef broth, onion and coconut aminos, a soy sauce-like dressing that’s soy-free and Paleo-friendly, turn this steak into some of the best beef you’ve had. Then, when the meat is cooked and fall-off-the-bone tender, grab a fork and shred it to the consistency you like. By this point, the beef should be so tender that this part will be easy. Taste the beef — if you haven’t already — and add seasonings as needed. To assemble your pulled beef slider, load the beef onto a mini gluten-free bun, and add your favorite toppings, like mustard, sauerkraut, ketchup and pickles. Everyone in the family can assemble to his or her liking! The meat in these pulled beef sliders is also delicious atop a fresh green salad, as the fixings for tacos or burrito bowls or with a side of veggies. I hope you like these pulled beef sliders as much as we do. Healthy, Homemade Pulled Beef Sliders Recipe Better than a burger, these pulled beef sliders are easily prepared with ingredients already in your kitchen and are easily customizable. INGREDIENTS 3 pounds steak, cut of your choice 2 small onions, sliced into thin strips ½ cup beef broth 1 teaspoon sea salt 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon black pepper ½ teaspoon onion powder ½ teaspoon paprika ¼ teaspoon chili powder ¼ cup coconut aminos INSTRUCTIONS Add all ingredients to slow cooker and cook on low for 8–10 hours. Use a fork to gently pull apart beef to a shredded consistency. Season additionally as needed. Top with your favorite toppings, such as sauerkraut and/or pickles. NOTES You can customize the spices to your tastes and play around with the best mix for you. If you’re in the mood to change things up, you can swap the grass-fed beef for free-range chicken or turkey for chicken or turkey sliders. Top these sliders with the healthy condiments of your choosing. To read the original article click here.

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Eating Raw Sauerkraut Offers More Health Benefits Than You Think

AHA Publisher — Tue, 23 Feb 2021 08:00:03 +0000

Karen Sanders via NaturalHealth365 – Sauerkraut, that familiar hot dog condiment, may not have the beauty of garnet-colored raspberries or the sweet, refreshing flavor of tropical fruits. But the latest scientific research tells us that freshly-made organic sauerkraut is a true superfood that boosts the immune system, promotes intestinal health, and helps prevent cancer in many ways. A recently published study in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition found that fermented foods such as raw sauerkraut contain chemical compounds and beneficial bacteria that offer a wide array of health benefits due to their anticancer, anti-microbial, and antioxidant activities. How Does Sauerkraut Prevent Cancer? Cabbage, the cruciferous vegetable from which sauerkraut is made, is already valued by natural food experts and nutritionists for its sky-high amounts of anticarcinogenic bioactive compounds. In fact, the glucosinolates in cabbage help activate the body’s own antioxidants, which fight the lipid oxidation and inflammation that can trigger cancer and heart disease. Additionally, the process of lacto-fermentation involved in turning cabbage to sauerkraut produces beneficial bacteria. It unleashes even more potent anti-inflammatory cancer-fighting substances – taking the health benefits to a whole new level and helping to ward off cancers of the prostate, bladder, and breast. Here Is Why Raw Sauerkraut Helps Ward Off Cancer According to the author and natural health expert Sandor Ellix Katz, the process of lactic fermentation not only preserves the nutrients in food but breaks them down. Hence, they are even more healthful and easily digested. But what, exactly, is lactic fermentation, and why is it beneficial? Although the term sounds somewhat technical, it is actually the natural result of layering shredded cabbage in water with salt, then letting existing bacteria on the cabbage do the work. The end product – sauerkraut – contains more live probiotic cultures than yogurt. One result of lacto-fermentation is to create large amounts of beneficial lactobacillus bacteria, which support friendly flora in the intestinal tract. Another is the release of isothiocyanate compounds from existing glucosinolate; these isothiocyanates have shown such pronounced anticarcinogenic effects in cellular, laboratory, and human studies. Impressive Science Behind the Benefits of Sauerkraut In an October 2002 article in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, researchers announced that they had isolated isothiocyanates in sauerkraut and that these compounds had cancer-protective effects in animal studies. They added that clinical research would be required to determine if these effects extended to humans. In the twelve years since the article was published, many studies on sauerkraut and sauerkraut juice show that it lowers cancer risk in humans – particularly for cancers of the breast and colon. In a study published in 2011 in the British Journal of Nutrition, researchers noted that the detoxifying enzymes in sauerkraut juice have an anticarcinogenic effect on kidney and liver cancer cells and added that sauerkraut juice increased levels of glutathione-S-transferase – considered a chemoprotective agent. Sauerkraut’s Probiotic Cultures Fight Cancer in Multiple Ways In a review published in 2006 in the Journal of Applied Microbiology, researchers stated that lactic acid bacteria could prevent certain types of cancer – including colon and bladder cancer – and categorized how probiotic cultures help torpedo cancer cell development. Not only do probiotic cultures detoxify ingested carcinogens and stimulate the immune system, but they also create an environment hostile to carcinogenic compounds. Specifically, they create organic compounds – including butyrate – that inhibit tumor growth and encourage the apoptosis, or programmed cell death, of cancer cells. The authors theorized that probiotic cultures might also suppress bacteria responsible for turning procarcinogens into carcinogens and added that lactobacillus could bind to mutagenic compounds in the intestine. What Is the Best Type of Sauerkraut to Prevent Cancer? Buy only sauerkraut that is freshly made, raw, unpasteurized, and organic; your best bet is to look for it in the refrigerated aisle of local markets or farmers’ markets. Avoid canned sauerkraut, which offers far fewer nutrients and probiotic benefits. Most experts recommend consuming at least 1 and ½ cups of sauerkraut 4 to 5 times a week; 2-cup servings, of course, are even healthier. One cautionary note: raw sauerkraut produces raffinose, a trisaccharide that can’t be broken down in the intestine. Bloating and flatulence can result but should subside as your body becomes accustomed to this healthful food. Simply put, fresh lacto-fermented sauerkraut, packed with cancer-fighting compounds and antioxidants and high in healthful dietary fiber, is a superb nutritional choice. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Wiley.com NIH.gov To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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Sauerkraut Recipe

AHA Publisher — Sat, 13 Jun 2020 07:00:37 +0000

Dr. Axe – Have you heard about the benefits of probiotics? These foods contain bacteria that line your digestive tract, supporting your immune system and absorbing nutrients from foods. One of my favorite foods, sauerkraut, is one of the greatest probiotic foods out there! Sauerkraut recipes not only tastes great on organic hot dogs, hamburgers or on their own, but fermented foods are rich in organic acids, which stimulate the growth of good bacteria. I know you’ll love this homemade sauerkraut recipe. Unlike store-bought options, this version requires just three ingredients for a tasty side that’s packed with nutrients! Before getting started, it’s important to note that sauerkraut isn’t made to be eaten immediately. The fermenting portion takes time, so you’ll want to plan ahead. With this sauerkraut recipe, I recommend letting it stand for at least four weeks before eating. The good part is, sauerkraut is so easy to make that you can whip up a new batch before finishing the current one, so you’ll always have fresh sauerkraut on hand! We’ll start with five pounds of shredded cabbage; any type works fine. Mix up the cabbage with the salt and caraway seeds, letting it all stand for 10 minutes. Next, stuff the cabbage into a large glass food container. Top the container with a quartered onion to weigh it down. This helps pack the cabbage down and keep it in the brine you’re making. Then, cover with a paper towel and seal it with a rubber band. Place the whole thing in a cool spot overnight and, in the morning, make sure the sauerkraut is totally submerged in liquid. This is how the magic will happen. Cabbage “scum” will form. Don’t worry, this is totally normal. Check on the cabbage every other day, skimming off any that forms on the surface. Finally, after at least four weeks, your homemade sauerkraut is ready! Store it safely in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to six months. INGREDIENTS: 1 large head of shredded cabbage 3 tablespoons pickling salt 1 tablespoon caraway seeds DIRECTIONS: In a large bowl, mix cabbage the cabbage with 2 tablespoons of salt. Let stand for 10 minutes. Massage the cabbage to release juices. About 10 minutes. Sprinkle remaining salt on the cabbage as well as caraway seeds. Pack cabbage mixture into a large glass food container. Top with a quartered onion to fit inside the container, weighing it down. Cover container with a lid. Place in a cool spot overnight on a plate. Check to make sure the sauerkraut is completely submerged in liquid. Check cabbage every other day for 2 weeks, skimming off of any scum that may form on the surface. Let stand for at least 4 weeks total. Then store in airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6 months. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

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