Natural Products Expo West returned in 2022, infused with the energy of renewal as well as an impressive variety and number of new and familiar products. The cornucopia was so abundant that it would be easier to describe what was NOT presented. As anticipated, organic, plant-based, gluten-free, keto, paleo, non-GMO, and sundry other health-based options […]
Microbiome Environment
Endometrial Cancer: Role of the Microbiome
Sometimes called uterine cancer, endometrial cancer begins in the layer of cells lining the uterus. Due to emerging evidence that the uterus is not a sterile cavity, researchers have begun to investigate the endometrial microbiome and its possible role in endometrial cancer. Endometrial cancer, in brief The endometrium is dynamic tissue, responding to estrogen and […]
Taxonomy – What is the Big Deal?
The IPA Scientific Committee wrote a blog about this when Lactobacillus decided it didn’t want to be such a huge genus any longer. Published in 2020 was the research on the how and why this name change was needed. A taxonomic note on the genus Lactobacillus. Just to clarify that the real purpose of naming […]
Probiotics: A Role in Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological diseases worldwide, affecting about 50 million people. Most live in low to middle-income countries where prevention and treatment can be lacking. Head injury, stroke, infections, and congenital abnormalities can all lead to epilepsy. The disease can diminish quality of life and cause premature death. Epilepsy, in brief […]
Seeking Clarity on Postbiotics
Postbiotics are emerging as potent forces for health, just as with probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics. But unlike these related substances, the term postbiotic continues to cause no small amount of confusion. Postbiotics, an evolving definition Researchers working with probiotics observed that at times isolated factors produced by the probiotic activity elicited the desired response. They […]
Can Probiotics Reduce Harms of Phthalates?
First introduced in the 1920s, phthalates are commercial chemicals used in a vast array of consumer products: plastic and vinyl, medical supplies, flooring, wall coverings, cosmetics, personal care products and toys. Their usefulness in industry is undeniable but researchers have observed harmful effects on endocrine, metabolic and neurological systems in the human body. Although elimination […]