In affluent Western cultures, where constant meals and snacking have become the norm—often leading to habits that contribute to poor health—researchers are discovering that an alternative approach to eating may offer significant benefits. Intermittent fasting is emerging as a potent tool for improving health, most specifically in age-related chronic diseases. Although the mechanisms are varied, […]
Soups with a Fermented Boost: A Powerhouse for Your Autumn Table
As the crisp air of autumn settles in, there’s nothing quite like a warm, nourishing bowl of soup to soothe the soul. But what if that bowl of comfort could also potentially offer a powerful boost to your gut health? Enter soups made with a fermented twist, where traditional autumn ingredients meet the healthful potential […]
Akkermansia muciniphila: A Next-Generation Probiotic Comes of Age
The genera Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium have long been the workhorses for traditional research into the health benefits of probiotics and are the most common commercialized probiotics. Now, newer techniques of analyzing microbial communities are leading to the identification of novel microbes, some with probiotic potential. These “next-generation probiotics” (NGPs) may offer unique benefits from more […]
Plant-Based Yogurt: A Step-by-Step Guide for Delicious Dairy-Free Options
Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant (although yogurt may improve lactose digestion), or just looking to try something new, plant-based yogurt can be a delicious and nutritious addition to your diet. A wide assortment of plant-based products are marketed as alternatives to milk: nuts, seeds, rice, oats, and legumes. Your grocery shelves are most likely to […]
Reducing Staphylococcus aureus with Probiotics: A Promising Alternative
Staphylococcus aureus (S.aureus), a bacterium present on human skin and mucous membranes, is typically harmless but can cause a multitude of serious and often fatal infections. Complicating treatment is pervasive antibiotic resistance, such as in methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) which has led to rising death tolls globally. A search for alternative therapies has involved the recognition of […]
Beat the Heat with Healthy Homemade Treats: Yogurt, Kefir, and Kombucha Popsicles
Summer is already heating up with record temperatures blanketing some parts of the planet. Cool off with these icy popsicles that are made with a nutritious twist. Fermented kombucha, kefir and yogurt can boost the probiotic potential in your diet while providing a break from the sweltering temperatures. Besides, homemade popsicles are incredibly easy and fun […]