Latest news with #Bacteroides
The Hindu
31-07-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Can gut microbes help flush out forever chemicals in your body? Here is what experts have to say
Could your gut help clear out toxic 'forever chemicals'? Scientists are beginning to explore the possibility that certain gut bacteria might help remove per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) - colloquially known as forever chemicals - a class of chemicals linked to cancer and other health harms from the body. A study published in Nature Microbiology found that certain gut bacteria were able to absorb PFAS, allowing mice with these microbes in their gut to excrete the chemicals through faeces. The findings add to growing interest in how gut microbes could influence the body's handling of environmental pollutants. What are PFAS and how do they accumulate in the body? PFAS are a large class of synthetic chemicals often called 'forever chemicals' due to their strong carbon-fluorine bonds, which make them highly resistant to degradation in the body or environment. 'These chemicals have been used since the 1940s across everyday products, from nonstick cookware and food packaging to firefighting foams,' said Uday Nagesh Shivangi, senior consultant and clinical lead in medical gastroenterology at Narayana Health, Bengaluru. These chemicals primarily enter the body through ingestion of tainted water or contaminated food like fish, meat, or eggs. Inhalation of contaminated dust and skin contact with PFAS containing items are also possible, though less prominent. Once inside, PFAS bind to serum proteins like albumin and accumulate in organs like the liver and kidneys, as well as in the bile staying in the body for years, explained C. Kolandasamy, senior consultant, department of surgical gastroenterology, Rela Hospital, Chennai. The process of enterohepatic circulation in which substances excreted in bile re-enter the intestines and are reabsorbed into the bloodstream can further prolong their half-life in the body. . 'Some of these chemicals, like PFOS or PFOA, can remain with half-lives of over 8 years,' Dr. Shivangi explained. Can gut bacteria help eliminate PFAS? In the recent study , researchers observed that mice carrying specific types of gut bacteria were able to excrete PFAS more effectively through faeces, compared to germ-free mice. 'This research gives us early clues about how the gut microbiome might influence PFAS elimination,' Dr. Kolandasamy said. 'Certain bacteria appear to bind to PFAS molecules, preventing their absorption and helping excrete them via faeces.' The mechanism is not one of chemical breakdown, but rather of sequestration, where microbes like Lactobacillus or Bacteroides bind to PFAS in the gut and trap them for elimination. Some microbial metabolites, such as bile acid conjugates, may also play a role in promoting excretion. 'Not all microbes do this,' cautioned Kayalavizhi Jayaraman, consultant gastroenterologist, Prashanth Hospitals, Chennai, 'Animal studies have shown that strains like Bacteroides can accumulate PFAS within them. While it's tempting to think of these microbes as filters, much more research is needed before recommending them for PFAS clearance.' The idea is scientifically compelling but still at a preclinical stage. 'So far, the most convincing data comes from lab and animal studies,' said Dr. Kolandasamy. 'Mice with a diverse microbiome show reduced PFAS absorption compared to germ-free mice. However, no human clinical trials have conclusively demonstrated that boosting specific gut bacteria reduces PFAS levels.' Dr. Jayaraman added that human evidence is mostly observational at this point. 'We do see associations between PFAS exposure and gut dysbiosis -- meaning changes in microbial diversity, but studies on actively changing the human microbiome to eliminate PFAS are still lacking.' Role of diet and gut health While there is no specific diet proven to eliminate PFAS, certain dietary strategies could support the gut's natural filtering functions. 'Dietary fibre has shown potential,' said Dr. Kolandasamy. 'Fiber can bind to bile acids, which also carry PFAS, promoting their excretion. Similarly, probiotics, particularly those containing Lactobacillus strains have shown reduced PFAS absorption in rodent models.' Pilot studies have also explored the use of bile acid sequestrants such as the cholesterol-lowering drug cholestyramine to lower serum PFAS levels. 'These findings suggest gut-focused therapies could be promising in the future,' he added. Dr. Jayaraman emphasised a preventive approach. 'While we don't yet have a diet protocol to clear PFAS, eating wholesome foods, increasing fibre, and limiting processed and packaged food items may support overall gut health and resilience. It is also wise to avoid non-stick cookware and limit known PFAS exposures.' Future research With growing awareness of chemical exposures in everyday life, researchers are exploring whether microbiome-based therapies such as designer probiotics or even faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) could one day help detoxify environmental chemicals like PFAS. 'There is already interest in engineering bacteria that express PFAS-binding proteins,' said Dr. Kolandasamy. 'But these are still early-stage concepts, and there are regulatory and scientific challenges to overcome.' Dr. Jayaraman added 'While it's exciting to imagine a future where a probiotic capsule could help clear toxins, we need years, if not decades of research, to reach that point. Until then, the focus should remain on minimising exposure and supporting gut health naturally.' This is a field worth watching,' said Dr. Kolandasamy, 'but for now, prevention and awareness remain the best defense.'
Gulf Insider
04-06-2025
- Health
- Gulf Insider
Milk Boosts Gut Diversity, Cheese Lowers Certain Microbes
Milk is a staple in many households. It has long been valued for nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, yet new data hint at another benefit that involves the intricate community of microbes inside the digestive system. Recent findings, led by Dr. Li Jiao from Baylor College of Medicine, shows that milk consumption is connected with an uptick in several helpful bacteria, while cheese may reduce certain microbes important for a balanced intestinal environment. Experts say dairy interacts with the microbiome, which is the mix of microorganisms in the body that help break down nutrients. Milk seems to support a broader range of gut microbes, a sign of a more adaptable gut. Scientists have explored the role of milk in encouraging the growth of bacteria linked to lower inflammation and improved gut barriers. Some researchers suggest this trend could relate to the carbohydrate content in dairy, but details remain under investigation. Several dairy-linked microbes stand out. One is Faecalibacterium, known for producing substances that help maintain gut balance and calm inflammation. Another is Akkermansia, often mentioned for its link to healthy weight and blood sugar control. Investigators say these bacteria can be more abundant in the gut when milk intake rises. Cheese appears to bring different consequences by reducing Bacteroides, which are common gut residents that may influence colon conditions. It also seems to lower Subdoligranulum, a genus thought to play a part in metabolic health. Scientists have noticed that Bifidobacterium, regarded as a probiotic, may increase with certain dairy habits too. This possibility has drawn interest among professionals looking for dietary ways to support digestion. Although yogurt is often praised for its probiotic potential, this study didn't find clear links between yogurt intake and gut microbiota changes. That's likely because participants reported very low yogurt consumption overall, limiting meaningful analysis. Without enough data, researchers couldn't determine whether yogurt had the same effects on key bacteria like Akkermansia or Faecalibacterium. More diverse and higher yogurt intake in future studies may be needed to explore how fermented dairy compares to milk and cheese. A few researchers highlight that milk has more lactose, which might help raise the presence of healthful bacteria. Cheese, produced through fermentation, contains less lactose but includes other elements that might shape the gut in a different way. Dietitians remind people that daily dairy recommendations can differ by age, lifestyle, and health status. Individuals who are sensitive to lactose or prone to certain digestive concerns might need to choose their dairy products carefully. Some nutrition guidelines in the United States advise around three cups of dairy daily, although personal needs vary. Many folks fall short of this amount, which leaves a door open for considering how milk or cheese might add microbial variety. Health experts caution that these findings shouldn't lead to broad assumptions about all dairy products. The study involved a small group of older men, and their average dairy intake was lower than national averages, so the results may not apply to other groups or dietary patterns. Still, the research adds weight to calls for more personalized dietary advice. Instead of focusing only on dairy quantity, future guidelines might need to emphasize the type of dairy product and its effects on gut bacteria balance and overall health. The study included only 34 participants, most of whom were older men. This limited sample size makes it hard to apply the findings to younger people, women, or more diverse populations. Also, the reliance on self-reported food frequency questionnaires introduces some uncertainty. People don't always remember their food habits accurately, which can affect how well their dairy intake matches up with microbiome changes. Studies increasingly point to the idea that food choices affect more than just basic nutrition. Milk consumption, in particular, is now tied to the presence of microbes that could protect against a variety of gut-related issues. 'Dairy consumption may influence host health by modulating the structure and composition of the colonic adherent gut microbiota,' said Dr. Jiao. The broader health connection is an active topic, and future efforts may include trials that examine long-term changes. Researchers plan to learn more about how each type of dairy modifies these microorganisms in people of different ages and backgrounds. They also want to understand the range of nutrients, such as calcium or protein, that might work alongside gut microbes to keep digestion running smoothly. Also read: New COVID Variant NB.1.8.1 Starting To Spread Worldwide: What We Know
Arab Times
03-06-2025
- Health
- Arab Times
Milk aids gut health, cheese lowers some microbes: new study
NEW YORK, June 3: A recent study led by Dr. Li Jiao of Baylor College of Medicine has revealed new insights into how dairy products influence the gut microbiome — the complex community of microbes residing in the digestive system. The research shows that milk consumption is associated with an increase in several beneficial bacteria, enhancing gut biodiversity and potentially contributing to better digestive health. Conversely, cheese consumption appears to reduce certain gut microbes important for maintaining intestinal balance. Milk is known for its nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D, but this study highlights its role in supporting a broader range of gut microbes, which indicates a more adaptable and resilient gut environment. Scientists observed that milk intake promotes bacteria like Faecalibacterium, which helps regulate inflammation and maintain gut balance, and Akkermansia, linked to healthy weight management and blood sugar control. Some researchers suggest that milk's carbohydrate content, particularly lactose, may be responsible for encouraging these beneficial microbes, though further research is ongoing. Unlike milk, cheese — produced through fermentation and containing less lactose — was found to decrease levels of Bacteroides and Subdoligranulum, both of which play roles in colon health and metabolic function. The study also noted a possible increase in Bifidobacterium, a probiotic bacteria, with certain dairy consumption patterns, drawing interest from nutrition experts looking for dietary ways to support digestion. Despite its reputation as a probiotic food, yogurt did not show significant effects on gut microbiota in this study. Researchers attributed this to low yogurt consumption among participants, which limited the ability to analyze its impact on key bacteria such as Akkermansia and Faecalibacterium. Future research with higher yogurt intake levels is needed to better understand how fermented dairy compares to milk and cheese. Experts note that daily dairy recommendations vary depending on age, lifestyle, and health. Individuals with lactose sensitivity or digestive issues should choose dairy products carefully. While the U.S. dietary guidelines suggest about three cups of dairy per day, many people consume less, opening opportunities for considering how milk or cheese might enhance gut microbial diversity. The study involved only 34 mostly older male participants and relied on self-reported dietary data, which can introduce inaccuracies. Consequently, the findings may not generalize to younger populations, women, or those with different eating habits. Dr. Jiao emphasized that 'dairy consumption may influence host health by modulating the structure and composition of the colonic adherent gut microbiota.' Future studies aim to examine long-term effects and explore how different dairy products affect gut microbes across diverse populations. Understanding the interplay between nutrients like calcium and protein and the gut microbiome may lead to more personalized dietary guidelines that focus on the type of dairy consumed, rather than quantity alone, to promote digestive health.
Scoop
05-05-2025
- Health
- Scoop
Gut Microbiome Link To ADHD Reinforced In Scientific Review
Press Release – University of the Sunshine Coast The link between a gut imbalance and symptoms of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder has been further supported by a University of the Sunshine Coast scientific review. The paper, published in Neuroscience, reviewed more than 280 studies and found mounting evidence that the immune system, neuroinflammation and a disturbed balance of bacteria in the gut played a role in ADHD symptoms. Lead author Naomi Lewis said two types of bacteria were particularly implicated: the Bacteroides species and Faecalibacterium. 'What we found was that there are compositional differences in the types of bacteria in the gut that may contribute to inflammation, brain functioning differences, and symptoms, in ADHD,' Ms Lewis said. In particular, certain Bacteriodes species that may improve the integrity of the intestinal barrier were found in less abundance in people with ADHD. 'Similarly, low levels of Faecalibacterium in the gut, also implicated in ADHD, has been linked with inflammatory conditions. 'Systemic inflammation cuts through the blood-brain barrier and can cause neuroinflammation, potentially from a very young age.' Ms Lewis said although ADHD was highly heritable, there were still environmental links to the severity of symptoms. 'It's important to remember there is a lot of complexity here, so no one thing is causing ADHD,' she said. 'Genetics still play a major role, but this research suggests you may want to look at the best support for minimising inflammation, particularly going into pregnancy.' 'The research in this space is still quite limited, but what we do know is that gut health plays an enormous role in mental health and neurological conditions,' Ms Lewis said. 'Gut bacteria can affect neurological processes in the brain, impacting behaviour and emotional regulation.' Co-author, UniSC Nutrition and Dietetics senior lecturer Dr Anthony Villani, said the review added to the global understanding on the impact of the gut microbiome on mental health. 'Most studies have found children with ADHD have poorer diets, with more added sugars and more processed foods compared to those without. 'But whether that is cause or affect we don't know, but there is certainly a need for more research,' Dr Villani said. Across the hundreds of papers reviewed, the evidence supports adopting lifestyle choices that nurture the gut microbiome. This includes minimising antibiotics, stress, and alcohol, saturated fats and refined sugar, eating more fibrous foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts – or adopting a Mediterranean-type diet as much as possible.
Scoop
05-05-2025
- Health
- Scoop
Gut Microbiome Link To ADHD Reinforced In Scientific Review
The paper, published in Neuroscience, reviewed more than 280 studies and found mounting evidence that the immune system, neuroinflammation and a disturbed balance of bacteria in the gut played a role in ADHD symptoms. Lead author Naomi Lewis said two types of bacteria were particularly implicated: the Bacteroides species and Faecalibacterium. 'What we found was that there are compositional differences in the types of bacteria in the gut that may contribute to inflammation, brain functioning differences, and symptoms, in ADHD,' Ms Lewis said. In particular, certain Bacteriodes species that may improve the integrity of the intestinal barrier were found in less abundance in people with ADHD. 'Similarly, low levels of Faecalibacterium in the gut, also implicated in ADHD, has been linked with inflammatory conditions. 'Systemic inflammation cuts through the blood-brain barrier and can cause neuroinflammation, potentially from a very young age.' Ms Lewis said although ADHD was highly heritable, there were still environmental links to the severity of symptoms. 'It's important to remember there is a lot of complexity here, so no one thing is causing ADHD,' she said. 'Genetics still play a major role, but this research suggests you may want to look at the best support for minimising inflammation, particularly going into pregnancy.' 'The research in this space is still quite limited, but what we do know is that gut health plays an enormous role in mental health and neurological conditions,' Ms Lewis said. 'Gut bacteria can affect neurological processes in the brain, impacting behaviour and emotional regulation.' Co-author, UniSC Nutrition and Dietetics senior lecturer Dr Anthony Villani, said the review added to the global understanding on the impact of the gut microbiome on mental health. 'Most studies have found children with ADHD have poorer diets, with more added sugars and more processed foods compared to those without. 'But whether that is cause or affect we don't know, but there is certainly a need for more research,' Dr Villani said. Across the hundreds of papers reviewed, the evidence supports adopting lifestyle choices that nurture the gut microbiome. This includes minimising antibiotics, stress, and alcohol, saturated fats and refined sugar, eating more fibrous foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts – or adopting a Mediterranean-type diet as much as possible. The paper is called
