Throughout human history, beneficial microbes have adapted to thrive on specific substances in the food we eat. Yet only in the past few decades have scientists homed in on which substrates —and underlying mechanisms of action—are used to best nourish them. The concept of “prebiotics” has since expanded into a new category with heightened importance […]
inulin
A New Look at Prebiotic Fibers
Dietary fibers shape the gut microbiota. These prebiotics determine microbial structure and function; we truly are what we eat. Targeted Approach to Health Recently, researchers delved into how specific fibers may define the microbial picture in human guts. This targeted approach has potential therapeutic value as manipulation of microbes may help in management of several […]
Microbes Target Mid-life Brain Crisis
Middle age is hard to nail down. It really demands a psychic ability to predict how long one may live. A better gauge may be when a new spouse or a sports car appears. For scientists, naturally, there is a definition: “Male middle age is a transitional period where many physiological and psychological changes occur […]
Inulin: A Prebiotic to Remember
If you can’t recall the top food sources of inulin, keep reading. Soluble fiber such as inulin—a prebiotic—may offset dysbiosis common in aging, potentially leading to mental benefits such as improving memory. These fibers can’t be digested but they can be fermented; bacteria feast on them like guests raiding your pantry and in the process, leave behind short-chain fatty acids […]
Fiber Gives Microbes Much to Chew On
Lentils, black beans, broccoli, mango, raspberries— slivers of the fibrous firmament—taste better than chips or fries and work for us instead of against. A high-fiber diet helps prevent a litany of diseases including cancer, heart disease, diabetes and obesity. Scientists have teased out many clues for how it works; only recently however have they targeted […]