Immunity improves, inflammation decreases with a fermented-food diet

Fermented beetroot

Yogurt, kimchi, kefir, and kombucha tea may not be staples in many diets, but a recent study by Stanford School of Medicine researchers has discovered that large servings of these and other fermented foods give the immune system a big boost.

Gluten NOT to blame for IBS symptoms? Lesser-known dietary element may be culprit behind condition

Gluten

A new Swedish study finds that excluding gluten from the diets of individuals suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) may not be as important as previously thought. Instead, research is proving another dietary element to be the culprit. Types of carbohydrates known as fodmaps, (Fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols) prove to be an aggravation … Read more

New gene-regulating process discovered via fatty acids, influences human health

DNA

The microbiota in our gut helps us digest the fiber that our bodies are otherwise unable to absorb. The fermentation of fiber results in short-chain fatty acids, or SCFAs, that have anti-inflammatory properties, according to a recent study. In addition to this, SCFAs have the ability to preserve the lining of the digestive tract, and ultimately reduce the risk of developing cancer, researchers say.

Billion-year-old bacterial proteins aid immunity from the human gut

Intestinal bacteria, Gut flora health

Our robust defense system is composed of many cell types, including bacteria primarily within the gut. In order to keep themselves from being infected or killed by viruses, these bacteria utilize specific proteins that date back at least one billion years, according to a recent study. This implies that our immune system is most likely … Read more