Emerging research suggests that the microbiota influences many aspects of wellbeing, far beyond digestive and immune health. Nurturing these trillions of tiny lives requires a holistic approach. Here’s how to help patients get started.
People who consume more omega-3 fatty acids — particularly EPA and DHA — are less likely to suffer from severe Covid and/or require hospitalization from it, according to a study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. They also have a reduced risk of testing positive for Covid, as wellRead
According to a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in Nutrients, vitamin E was shown to help alleviate chronic insomnia disorder and enhance sleep quality in postmenopausal women. Insomnia is one of the most common conditions during and after menopause. For this study, scientists wanted to know if vitamin E supplements could beRead
One particular probiotic strain found in supplements — Bacillus subtilis — was shown to dramatically reduce Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) in the gut without killing off friendly bacteria, according to a study in Lancet Microbe. S. aureus is a bacterium commonly associated with skin infections. But if it enters theRead
Love Your Happy Place The human microbiota consists of trillions of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and others. The vast majority, around 70%, of these microbes reside in the gut and are vital to immune and metabolic health. The gut microbiota also affects your cognitive function and mood throughRead
Lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus) has been prized for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine for its brain- and health-boosting properties. Now researchers from The University of Queensland have taken a big step in better understanding it, thanks to the discovery of bioactive compounds that increase nerve growth and improve memory. TheseRead
An extract of amla fruit (Emblica officinalis), also called Indian gooseberry, was shown to benefit type 2 diabetics with dyslipidemia, according to a new study in Food & Function. Researchers compared a proprietary preparation of amla (Saberry) with the popular diabetes drug metformin in a 90-day, randomized, open-label trial. TheRead
From the plaque on our teeth to the mucosal layers in the gut lumen, biofilms are everywhere in our environment — and they are a major threat to our health. According to the National Institutes of Health, more than 65% of all microbial and chronic infections are associated with biofilmRead
Diabetic mice with low levels of the amino acid serine have an increased risk for peripheral neuropathy, according to a new study in Nature. When given serine in their diets, the mice experienced relief from their neuropathy. The study highlights the crucial role non-essential amino acids play in nervous systemRead
Omega-3 fatty acids from seafood and oily fish — not plants — are linked with a reduced risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and a slower decline in kidney function, according to a study published in The BMJ. Estimates show that CKD afflicts 700 million people in the world, causingRead
