Part 1: Unraveling the Connection A progressive neurodegenerative disorder with devastating clinical symptoms, Parkinson’s disease (PD) afflicts an estimated 8.5 million people worldwide. Because age is a major risk factor, numbers are expected to soar as populations trend older. Tremors, muscle rigidity, and slow movement are hallmark symptoms of PD. Notably, many patients also experience […]
Microbiome Environment
Endocrine Disruptors and Gut Health: Risks for Expecting Mothers and Offspring
A pregnant woman is advised to avoid alcohol, tobacco, certain foods, many medications, hot tubs, saunas, and even kitty litter. More difficult to dodge are the endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) that are ubiquitous in her modern environment. Research on prenatal exposure to EDCs has found associations with changes in the gut microbiota, leading to dysbiosis. Such […]
Unlocking the Power of Intermittent Fasting: How It Impacts the Gut Microbiome
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 […]