Like its name, necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is nasty: death of tissue in the bowel. Primarily affecting preterm infants born before 32 weeks’ gestation, NEC—though fairly rare— is a serious and sometimes fatal disorder. Though the causes of NEC are not completely understood, an abnormal gut microbiome is one important factor. Another one is the type […]
Microbiome Environment
Probiotics: Part of the Skeleton Crew?
Bone fractures severely affect quality of life and mortality in aging populations. Fortunately, research on the impact of gut microbiota (GM) on bone metabolism identifies potential new targets to modify bone mineral density. Indeed, probiotics may one day be part of effective treatment. Brief review Our skeletons are not inert — far from it. Our […]
Probiotics May Improve Blood Lipid Profile
An abnormal blood lipid profile is one crucial target in the risk-reduction, prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease, the number one cause of death worldwide. Hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, increased low-density lipoproteins (LDL), and reductions in the levels of high-density lipoproteins (HDL) may respond well to medications, exercise and diet. Functional foods enriched with bioactive components such […]
Yogurt: Beyond Breakfast
Yogurt holds a special place at the breakfast table and even finds its way into the lunch box. By dinnertime, this fast and easy staple is usually consigned to the refrigerator. Time to change it up. Quick review Yogurt is produced by fermentation of milk (mostly cow’s milk but also from goat, ewe, camel and […]
IPA Webinar on Probiotics in Immune Support
On May 12, 2020, IPA will host a free webinar titled: Probiotics: Can They Play a Role in Immune Support? Our immune system is the body’s defense mechanism and is a big concern presently given its huge importance to human health. Science continues to show that perturbations of the microbiome, whether it be gut, lung […]
Kimchi: Can it fire up immunity?
South Korea has been praised for its swift testing and rapid response in handling the coronavirus pandemic. Another thought for a few in the probiotic community is that South Koreans may have another tool in their arsenal: healthful kimchi. Koreans love kimchi. This spicy fermented vegetable dish is consumed most days in most homes. Lactic […]