 In the face of varying marketing messages, shopping for a probiotic can be overwhelming. Some companies champion products with high CFU (colony-forming units, which is the measurement of groups of living microorganisms observed under the microscope), while others showcase products with dozens of strains. With more product options than ever, it is important to know what to look for when selecting a probiotic.
So what is a probiotic? Scientists define a probiotic as the following: “Live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host.”1,2 Based on that definition, how do you find the probiotic you need? Here is a checklist of six things to look for: Personalization—What health benefits do you need?
Science—Clinically studied to demonstrate health benefits
Identity—Genus, species, and strain
Amounts matter—Billions are not always better
Alive through expiration
Manufacturing quality/testing for contaminants and purity
Submitted by the Metagenics Marketing Team
0 Comments
 By Molly Knudsen, MS, RDN Some things never change: The kids go back to school in the fall, the leaves change color shortly after, the holiday season approaches with increasing speed every year, and the cold or flu always seems to hit a household when the holiday season is happening. We know from experience that the common cold and flu hit the hardest when the weather gets the chilliest, but why is that? And can probiotics really help support your immune health so you can enjoy the holidays approaching? Are the seasons actually connected to health? According to science, it turns out that there are three main ways that the seasons may influence health.
 How can you use nutrition as a tool to support your immune system this season?Common colds are so common that, on average, adults usally experience two to three per year, and kids often contract more, making colds the main culprit for missed days of work and school.3 Maintaining proper immune system function is especially important during this time. There are many simple habits you can start today to help keep the cold and flu at bay. Key vitamins and probiotics may also play a role in maintaining immune health. The age-old remedy of drinking orange juice for immune health may actually hold some validity. Oranges are high in vitamin C, and this vitamin has been shown to be a powerful antioxidant that contributes to the body’s immunity.4 Not getting enough vitamin C can impair immunity and weaken your body’s immune defense.4 Foods that are high in vitamin C include guavas, red bell peppers, tomatoes, and the ever-popular orange juice. Vitamin D also plays an important role in immune function. Vitamin D receptors are expressed on various immune cells and can modulate immune response.5 It is common for vitamin D levels to drop in the winter months, and oftentimes people may not even be aware if they are deficient in this nutrient.1 Low vitamin D levels are also associated with impaired immune function.5 Foods that contain vitamin D include fortified dairy products and plant-based dairy alternatives, fatty fish like salmon, and eggs. Some orange juices are also fortified with vitamin D.  A staggering 70% of the immune system is located in the gut, and one not-so-intuitive habit to maintain your immune health, in addition to getting adequate amounts of these key vitamins, is to consider probiotics.6 Research shows that the probiotic strains Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM and Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07 may help support immune function.7
These are the potential modes of action for how certain probiotics may support the immune response:8
References
 Are you struggling to maintain a healthy weight?
If so, you may want to check in with your gut. Research has shown that our gut bacteria—specifically, the wrong kind of gut bacteria, or lack of microbial diversity—can hinder weight management.1 This post offers a brief overview of the gut and explains how you can improve your gut microbiome and support better weight management. Gut health: an overview Our intestines, or gut, are key to our digestive system and have been linked to many other aspects of our health, affecting everything from our cognitive wellbeing to our skin health and potentially our ability to lose weight.2 Our gut hosts 100 trillion microbes at any given time, and the majority of these microflora are good for us. That said, not all microbes provide the same health benefits.2 This is because we each have a unique composition of microbiota in our gut microbiome—consisting of various strains of bacteria, viruses, and protozoa (a group of single-celled microorganisms)—some of which have been shown to influence our weight and overall health. If our microbiota become less diverse, or if the amount of specific, beneficial microbes in the gut shifts, it may affect our health in various ways.2 What factors influence the gut microbiome? Our gut breaks down the food we eat into small particles. The smallest particles are absorbed into the blood, while the rest are eliminated from the body.3 The process of digestion that takes place in the intestines is where the impact of gut bacteria is the most significant. While the majority of these bacteria help to break down food and nutrients in the gut, some are better-equipped to facilitate digestion, and potentially help with weight management, than others.3 Put simply: If the gut has higher levels of certain types of bacteria, this could be a reason why it’s more difficult to lose weight. Some factors that can disrupt the gut microbiome and affect weight management include:4
Even the most relaxed people experience stress from time to time. Chronic stress is much more serious, however, as it can disrupt the gut microbiome, reducing the numbers of beneficial bacteria for weight management as well as affecting overall health. Strategies to improve gut health and promote weight loss Results from a study published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings reveals that even with a strict diet and exercise program, specific activities of the gut bacteria can disrupt the microbiome and make weight loss difficult.6 This is important because currently, more than two-thirds of American adults are either overweight or at risk of being overweight.7 Healthy weight loss and management are crucial to overall health—and this is where understanding research on probiotic strains is valuable.8 In addition to a nutritious diet and regular exercise, certain strains may improve gut function. Clinical studies have shown that strains, such as Bifidobacterium lactis B420, support body weight regulation and have been shown to help control body weight and body fat.8 While certain probiotic strains may be ideal for weight management, along with a comprehensive wellness regimen, they are not a substitute for a healthful diet and active lifestyle. Please speak to your healthcare practitioner before changing your diet. References:
 By Milene Brownlow, PhDAlso referred to as “gum arabic,” gum acacia is a water-soluble nondigestible carbohydrate derived from the sap of the Acacia Senegal tree, a plant native to parts of Africa, Pakistan, and India. The harvested gum is dried and crushed into a fine powder, rich in complex polysaccharides (carbohydrate with several sugar molecules bound together), highly soluble in water, and primarily indigestible to both humans and animals. Consequently, the ingested acacia is not broken down in the small intestine but fermented by the resident microorganisms in the colon.1 We all know the importance of a healthy gut. How happy are you with a tummy ache or when plagued by constipation/diarrhea or any other variation of a bothered digestive system? The connection between gut health and mood has been strengthened by findings of how specific bacteria strains can regulate not only body weight and composition2 but also influence brain health and contribute to neurological applications.3 Acacia has recently gained the attention of the research and medical communities due to several of its health-promoting benefits, such as: 1. Metabolic health Ingestion of soluble fibers slow digestion and the rate at which nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream. This could possibly help regulate blood glucose levels following meals. Data have shown that ingestion of 20 g of acacia, when consumed with glucose, resulted in lower blood glucose levels than ingesting glucose alone.4 A 2010 study investigated the metabolic effects of a drink containing gum acacia and pectin in 21 men with metabolic syndrome. After 5 weeks, subjects consuming the fiber drink displayed improved fasting glucose turnover (the rate of glucose uptake and production) despite the lack of changes in insulin sensitivity or fasting plasma glucose.5 Researchers explored the mechanism of potential blood glucose regulation in an animal study. Specifically, when mice drank water with gum acacia, the researchers observed reduced protein levels of an intestinal glucose transporter, suggesting reduced intestinal absorption of glucose. This effect was sufficient to prevent glucose-induced increases in body weight and fasting plasma glucose levels in the mice that consumed the gum acacia.6 2. Satiety and reduced caloric intake Acacia may help digestion by adding bulk and softness to stool, which in turn may promote regular, healthy bowel movements while promoting satiety, as described in a study of 10 overweight subjects who consumed a mixture of dietary fibers (including gum acacia) for four weeks.7 When healthy volunteers consumed 5 or 10 grams of gum acacia, they decreased energy intake and reported increased feelings of satiety three hours after intake.8 In another study, healthy women who consumed 30 grams of gum acacia daily for six weeks experienced a significant reduction in body mass index (0.32 points) and body fat percentage (2.2%) compared to those in the placebo group (pectin).9 3. Gut health Gum acacia has been studied for its impact on gut health as well. This nutrient has been associated with improved digestive health by increasing both the number of beneficial bacteria and the production of short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the gut: By acting as a prebiotic and increasing the number of beneficial bacteria: Prebiotics are defined as substrates that are selectively utilized by host microorganisms conferring a health benefit.11 A case study performed in 1986 investigated whether the daily addition of 10 grams of gum acacia in a healthy volunteer could lead to changes in the fecal microbiome. After 18 days of consuming gum acacia, the fecal sample from the volunteer had higher numbers of Bacteroides and Bifidobacterium colonies than the starting samples, suggesting adaptation to the dietary intervention and increased fermentation of the ingested gum acacia.12 Another study investigated the prebiotic efficacy of gum acacia in 54 healthy adults at several daily doses (5-40 grams) for 4 weeks. Compared with the control group (who took 10 grams of inulin which is a well-known prebiotic), the number of Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli in stool samples was significantly higher in subjects consuming acacia versus inulin with the optimal dose being around 5-10 grams. The doses tested also resulted in fewer gastrointestinal side effects, such as gas and bloating.13 Since inulin is a well-known prebiotic and known to cause issues like gas and bloating, the finding that acacia gum performed better in both the aspect of promoting beneficial bacteria in stool while not causing as many side effects suggests that acacia may also be a strong prebiotic. By increasing production of short chain fatty acids: In addition to increasing the number of beneficial bacteria, ingesting prebiotics may result in increased production and release of SCFAs, such as butyrate.14 In vitro research using bacteria isolated from the human colon demonstrated that human colonic bacteria can rapidly utilize gum acacia.15 Considering its chemical and physical properties and the benefits reported above (and others under investigation), gum acacia is widely used as an emulsifier and stabilizer by the pharmaceutical and food industries. Because of its neutral taste and high solubility, it can easily be mixed into liquids without thickening it or adding any grittiness to its texture. Earlier this year, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released an updated guidance stating that gum acacia fails to meet the definition of intrinsic and intact due to its chemical structure and processing and is not, therefore, considered a dietary fiber.17 Industry partners are currently working with researchers to demonstrate physiological benefits for acacia as a dietary fiber and seeking to provide this additional information to the FDA.18 Acacia gum may, however, be considered a functional fiber under the Institute of Medicine’s (IOM) definition as a nondigestible carbohydrate isolated or extracted from a natural plant or animal source, or manufactured or synthesized.19 While the “Is acacia a dietary fiber?” discussion continues, we can recognize that some scientific evidence exists demonstrating that gum acacia may support metabolic and digestive health among other benefits. References:
 By Molly Knudsen, MS, RDN
The first thought that likely comes to mind when you hear the word “microbiome” is the gut. But the human microbiome extends far beyond the intestines. The word microbiome refers to the trillions of microorganisms including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites that call the human body home.1 These little critters, especially bacteria, are mostly concentrated in the small and large intestine but also inhabit the skin.1 What is the role of the skin? The skin is the largest organ in the body and, on average, is equal to about 20 square feet.2 The skin helps regulate body temperature and water retention. Not only does it trap or release heat to help keep you warm or cool depending on the temperature outside, the nerve endings in the skin also help you feel if a surface is too hot or cold or other sensations like pressure and pain.2 But the skin’s most apparent job is to act as a barrier. It is your first line of defense, preventing germs and the sun’s ultraviolet rays from entering the body.2 Microorganisms living on the skin protect the body from invasion of more harmful bacteria or viruses.2 The skin microbiota may also communicate with T cells, which are active players in the body’s immune response, preparing them to respond to harmful organisms the skin may encounter in the future.3 What affects the skin microbiome? Birth method: Starting from birth, the skin’s microbiome is constantly developing. The skin microbiome of infants born vaginally acquires microorganisms from the mother’s birth canal, whereas babies born via cesarean section acquire the microorganisms primarily from their mother’s skin.4 Skin physiology: The type of microorganisms on the skin is also influenced by the skin’s physiology, which can be divided into three regions.4
Demographic and lifestyle factors: Everything from where you live (air quality, temperature, and humidity) to clothing choices to cosmetic usage and hygienic practices to job functions can influence the skin microbiota.5 Uncontrollable factors that can affect the skin microbiome include age and sex. For example, the skin microbiome goes through major changes during puberty as increased hormone levels may increase the amount of oil the skin produces.4 Besides the obvious, how do the skin and gut microbiomes differ? Compared to the gut, the microbiome of the skin has the greatest variability of microorganisms over time.4 Research shows skin sites with the least exposure to outside environments are the most consistent over time: the ear, nose, and groin.3 Do the gut and the skin interact?Even though the skin has its own microbiome, the gut microbiome still impacts skin health. This interaction is referred to as the gut-skin axis.1 The gut microbiome may contribute to skin homeostasis (maintaining normal skin functions) and to skin allostasis (returning the skin to normal after some type of disturbance).1 The gut may also play a role in keeping the skin free of blemishes.1 The benefits the gut exerts on the skin could be due to the gut’s role in systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and the lipid content of tissue.1 How do you keep your skin microbiota and the gut-skin axis in check? 1. Eat a balanced diet Research shows eating plant-based foods can be beneficial in helping keep the skin clear.6 Foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains contain fiber and biochemical compounds like polyphenols, which are important nutrients for health and can potentially benefit the skin.6 Some of these foods are also considered prebiotics and act as a nutrient source for the good bacteria in the gut to feed on 2. Consider adding fermented foods to your diet Fermented foods like miso, kombucha, and kimchi are common foods that contain good bacteria and may contain probiotic cultures. These good bacteria support digestion, and research shows they may play a role in the gut-skin axis.5 3. Use gentle skin products The skin’s microbiome flourishes under a more acidic environment. A low pH level is a measure of acidity (0 being most acidic and a high value of 14 being most basic).7 On average, the pH of the skin’s surface is below 5.7 Topical products such as soaps, sanitizers, and moisturizes can disrupt and raise that ideal pH level of the skin. Using gentle skin products and not overdoing it on the soap can help keep the skin’s pH level where it should be. In addition, topical products containing tea polyphenols may help reduce the amount of oil produced by the skin and help support a clear complexion.8 The skin is the largest and most visible organ of the body, and keeping the skin’s microbiome and the gut’s microbiome well-nourished is important for health. These are just a few steps that you can consider adding to your daily routine to support your body’s friendly bacteria. References
Multi-Strain Probiotic Improves Insulin Resistance in Patients with Diabetes | Blog | Metagenics11/5/2019  Targeted probiotic in personalized therapeutic plan for patients with diabetes shows promise by Bianca Garilli, ND and Ashley Jordan Ferira, PhD, RDN Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is no longer a Western world phenomena, but rather a global epidemic, with research revealing an association between higher T2D rates and a country’s wealth or economic growth.1 As a clear example, in a publication titled “Prevalence of type 2 diabetes in the Arab world: impact of GDP and energy consumption”, it was observed that the higher a country’s gross domestic product (GDP), the higher the T2D prevalence.1 T2D rates in these regions include Kingdom of Saudi Arabia- 31.6%, Oman- 29%, Kuwait- 25.4%, Bahrain- 25%, and United Arab Emirates- 25%.1 Recognizing the worldwide impact of T2D, it is critical to identify underlying causes and practical, implementable tools for prevention and treatment. It is well documented that T2D is a chronic, inflammatory condition. Higher levels of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) have been observed in diabetic vs. non-diabetic individuals.2 LPS are Gram-negative bacterial fragments that are considered endotoxins, and can, if left untreated, overgrow in the gastrointestinal tract leading to increased gut permeability.3 A “leaky gut” environment increases the opportunity for these endotoxins to migrate out of the gut and into the circulation, ultimately contributing to systemic inflammation.3 Probiotics have been studied in various models to determine their effects on LPS growth and proliferation and whether targeted probiotic administration aimed at mitigating LPS effects can reduce systemic inflammation, in particular in the T2D population.4-5 The limitations of previous research included short-term duration (≤3 months) and the utilization of mono-strain supplementation.3 To augment the current literature on this topic, a longer study (6 months) was conducted in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled fashion to examine the impact of probiotics on endotoxemia, inflammation, and cardiometabolic disease risk in Arab patients with T2D.3 In this study, 61 Saudi adults (35 females) aged 30-60 years completed the 6-month trial: 30 in the placebo group and 31 in the probiotic group.3 The placebo and probiotic groups were randomly allocated to powder sachets, to be dissolved in a glass of water twice daily, before breakfast and bedtime. The probiotic intervention provided 2.5 billion CFU/g BID and included the following strains: Bifidobacterium bifidum W23, Bifidobacterium lactis W52, Lactobacillus acidophilus W37, Lactobacillus brevis W63, Lactobacillus casei W56, Lactobacillus salivarius W24, Lactococcus lactis W19, and L. lactis W58.3 No additional therapeutics such as exercise or dietary recommendations were included during the course of the study in either group.3 In the probiotic group, significant changes in glycemic indices, lipid profile, inflammatory markers, endotoxin levels, and adipocytokine profile were observed at 6 months vs. baseline:3
The improvements in endotoxin load, inflammation, and cardiometabolic profile over time in the probiotics group are noteworthy, but they were not clinically significant when compared to the placebo group.3 Comparing the probiotic intervention to the placebo group: There was a significant and clinically relevant decrease in HOMA-IR (↓64.2%) in the probiotic group.3 HOMA-IR is correlated with most other cardiometabolic indices measured, so one could posit a potentially broader cardiometabolic benefit from the probiotic intervention, but this and other hypotheses should be explored in a future study with an adequately powered sample size. Why is this Clinically Relevant?
Citations
Targeted probiotic - a cornerstone of root-cause approach to disease management and wellness  by Melissa Blake, BSc, ND The use of probiotics has grown substantially over the last several years. Propelled by development in sequencing methods and analytical techniques, there has been a significant increase in knowledge and understanding about the importance of a healthy microbiome.1 The currently accepted definition of a probiotic states they are “live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host”.2 Is this relatively broad definition sufficient for clinicians to guide treatment? Can we assume that any live organism in relevant doses will achieve positive clinical outcomes? We’ve been talking about the use of probiotics for over a hundred years,6 but when it comes to probiotic therapy, what do we really know? A brief history lesson As early as the 1680's, long before the term probiotic was coined, Antonie van Leeuwenhoek was studying his oral and fecal microbiota. He noted striking differences in these microbes, as well as in samples collected from healthy vs. unhealthy people at both of these anatomical sites.3 The notion of natural, innate immunity furthered our understanding of gut bacteria. The concept, first discussed by scientist Élie Metchnikoff and for which he was awarded a Nobel Prize in 1908, encountered much resistance from the medical community.4 Metchnikoff insisted disease was more than the germ theory and highlighted the importance of a healthy host. The health of the host, he believed, was largely dependent upon having diverse intestinal flora.5 Metchnikoff’s research suggested that a diet rich in fermented dairy products, due to high content of Lactobacilli, had a positive influence on health and longevity.6 The concept of “probios” (pro-bios, conducive to life of the host) was born. Research in gut microbiology has become a significant area of interest, including the establishment of the Human Microbiome Project (HMP) in 2008. The HMP has characterized the microbial communities found at several different sites on the human body: nasal passages, oral cavity, skin, gastrointestinal (GI) tract, and urogenital tract and has examined the role of these microbes in human health and disease.7 In 2012, the potential for a mammary microbiome was suggested and later confirmed in a study published in 2014, which identified widespread bacteria within the mammary glands, irrespective of lactation.8 The evidence continues to establish the diversity of the human microbiome, not only from one person to another, but also across specific body sites.9 The human microbiome A balanced and diverse microbiota plays a role in human health during the lifecycle. Growing evidence supports a connection between maternal microbiome and pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth, preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, and gestational weight gain, as well as having an impact on infant health.10 Infancy is a critical time in the development of commensal gut bacteria and is influenced by pre- and postnatal exposures, including the maternal microbiome, delivery method (C-section vs. vaginal birth), diet, and medical interventions.11 Such factors can negatively or positively influence the balance of an individual’s microbiome and may impact short- and long-term health outcomes.12 Modifications to the infant gut microbiota may impact childhood obesity risk,13 atopic disease,14 as well as various GI conditions.15 After initial colonization, factors such as age, gender, diet, environment, stress, and the use of antibiotics continue to influence the microbiome. Changes in the GI and respiratory microbiome of adults have been implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic pulmonary diseases, including asthma and allergies.16 Dysbiosis has also been associated with psoriasis,17-18 psoriatic arthritis,18 and inflammatory bowel disease,19 suggesting a direct link between a balanced microbiome and the health of the GI and immune systems. Studies have also connected highly abundant levels of specific genera of bacteria with leanness and have shown they play a role in regulating blood sugar and insulin levels.20 Recent reports suggest that neuroinflammation is an important causal mechanism in cognitive decline. This inflammatory status could be triggered by changes in the gut microbiota composition.21 Evidence is connecting the dots between gut bacteria, altered intestinal permeability, and blood brain barrier integrity.22 A disruption in gut flora may, through several mechanisms, contribute to a “leaky brain”, making the brain more susceptible to circulating substances and contributing to cognitive dysfunction. Further research is warranted in this exciting area of scientific study. As clinicians, we cannot erase the past or possibly impact all the factors that influence the microbiome of our patients. However, we can partner with our patients to help them make positive lifestyle changes. Diet and targeted probiotic therapy are powerful tools. Consumption of excess saturated fats and added sugar influences the microbiota composition, which may lead to an imbalanced microbial population in the gut.22 By modifying risk factors and targeting the microbiome, Functional Medicine practitioners have an opportunity to both prevent and manage disease with individualized nutrition and probiotic therapy at any age. Evidence for an individualized approach Convincing evidence of the human health implications of probiotics exists. Hundreds of well-controlled trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses have helped define the appropriate use of probiotics and their valuable benefits. The evidence suggests, however, that probiotic therapy is far from a one-size-fits-all approach. In fact, studies show clearly defined benefits are associated with specific strains of bacteria. Here we discuss several that have substantial evidence to support their targeted clinical uses in specific populations: Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM
Summary Although we have much more to learn, advancements in our understanding of the human microbiome continue to provide exciting approaches to Functional and personalized medicine. Probiotic therapy is a cornerstone of a root-cause approach to wellness and disease management. Citations
Dr. Melissa Blake is a clinical specialist on the Medical Information team at Metagenics. She completed her pre-medical studies at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia and obtained her naturopathic medical training from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. Dr. Blake has over 10 years of clinical experience, specializing in the integrative and functional management of chronic diseases.  Whether its an experiment or doctor’s orders, going gluten-free is an adjustment. Removing gluten may mean eliminating not only some of your favorite foods, but possibly a good portion of your current diet. What foods will you eat in their place? How will you fill the gluten void?
Most likely, there’s no lack of “gluten-free” versions of your favorite foods on your grocer’s shelves. In fact, the number of gluten-free packaged foods is exploding to keep up with consumer demand. Going gluten-free may be as easy as buying and opening a different box—or bag or carton. But are gluten-free packaged foods the answer? Possibly not. In fact, they may be the surprising reason behind many go-gluten-free resolutions. Here’s why.
There’s a better way. Don’t just swap out one package for another. Relying on gluten-free packaged foods can be taxing on your budget, blood pressure, waistline, and digestion. Rather, consider this an ideal time to shift your diet away from processed foods and toward more whole foods. Instead, give your diet a bona fide upgrade. Reference: Financial Times, Going gluten free: one of 3 trends shaking up commodities https://www.ft.com/content/5348432e-1a13-11e7-bcac-6d03d067f81f, Accessed December 9, 2017.  By Noelle Patno, PhD
When you get “the runs,” you need to know what is actually causing the excess stool and how to control it. Diarrhea (“flow through” from the Greek), by definition, is frequent loose stools of small to moderate volume typically during waking hours, in the morning or after meals.1 Often there is a feeling of extreme urgency along with the sense of incomplete evacuation. If diarrhea is accompanied by blood or grease or is of large volume, this is cause for extra concern, and you should consult your doctor as soon as possible. Diarrhea may be due to multiple causes such as dysbiosis or alteration of the intestinal microbiota which lead to changes in the usual bacterial composition. The ABCs and more of diarrhea causes
Chronic diarrhea is a decrease in fecal consistency lasting for four or more weeks, which requires further investigation by medical personnel. If you have any concerns related to diarrhea, you should discuss them with your healthcare practitioner. References:
 Do you enjoy kimchi or sauerkraut? Did you know these fermented foods are beneficial for your health?
Kimchi and sauerkraut, along with other fermented foods such as kombucha and tempeh, are full of good bacteria called probiotics, which help promote a healthy gut microbiome.1 Also known as the digestive tract, the gut consists of roughly 100 trillion bacteria and microbes.1 Taking care of these microorganisms can help support general health.1,2,3 If improving your health sounds appealing, you may want to incorporate more fermented foods into your diet. How do fermented foods work in the gut? Fermentation is a hot topic in the nutrition space. During fermentation, yeast, bacteria, and other microorganisms convert carbohydrates such as sugars into alcohols or acids.4 These alcohols and acids not only serve as natural preservatives, but they also give fermented foods their unique flavor. Common fermented foods and beverages include:
What are the health benefits of fermented foods? Fermented foods offer a number of health benefits, including better absorption of nutrients and immune protection.4 They are ideal for: 1. Digestive health The probiotics in fermented foods re balance the healthy bacteria in the gut.4 This means they can reduce the symptoms of many digestive issues.4 So, if you’re grappling with bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, or irritable bowel syndrome, think about eating more tempeh or sauerkraut.4 Fermentation also promotes easier digestion. 2. Nutrient absorption Fermented foods support easier digestion and better nutrition by allowing nutrients to be absorbed and not just eliminated as waste. Since fermentation breaks ingredients down into simpler parts, foods that have gone through this process are generally easier to digest.4 And easier digestion may support better nutrient absorption. Put simply, it is thought that fermentation makes nutrients more bio available to the body.4 The process can also enhance the nutritional value of specific foods, as it produces several B vitamins as a byproduct.2 3. Cognitive well being Did you know the gut and the brain work together?5 Their connection is in the gut-brain axis, which includes signaling between the nervous system and the digestive tract.5 Consequently, emerging research suggests a healthy gut may support a healthy mind—and vice versa. Studies show that eating fermented foods may support mood and cognitive function.5 How can you add fermented foods to your diet? Fermented foods ranging from cabbage to ginger deliver important vitamins, minerals, trace elements, and more.6 You can buy these foods at the grocery store or prepare fermented meals yourself. Focus on quality when possible, and monitor your intake of added sugars, salt, and fat.2 No matter your approach, it’s best to start slow when adding fermented foods to your diet.2 One to three servings per day may be just fine.2 Please consult a doctor or nutritionist for dietary guidance and remember that it may take a week or two before your body adjusts to your new eating habits. References:
Submitted by the Metagenics Marketing Team |
AuthorArchives
February 2020
Categories
All
|
RSS Feed