Latest news with #Lactobacillus
Time of India
2 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Colon Cancer: US Gastroenterologist shares 6 snack ideas that can reduce colon cancer risk
Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is increasingly common, especially among younger adults. In recent years, doctors have witnessed a disturbing trend linked with colon cancer, which traditionally is viewed as a disease of older adults, but is increasingly striking people under 50. Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer, is a type of cancer that develops in the tissues of the colon or rectum. It's one of the most common types of cancer worldwide and the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Thanks to obesity and alcohol consumption, bowel cancer has become the primary cause of the rising death toll among young adults. However, early detection and lifestyle changes play crucial roles in reducing risk. According to gastroenterologists like Dr. Joseph Salhab, simple dietary tweaks, particularly smart snacking, can support colon health and lower the risk of developing this disease. How? Incorporating high-fiber, nutrient‑dense snacks into your daily routine not only promotes regular digestion but also feeds beneficial gut microbes that guard against inflammation and carcinogenic processes. Here are six science-backed snack ideas a leading gastroenterologist recommends to help reduce colon cancer risk. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Young Woman (19) Lives in a Shed - Take a look inside Tips and Tricks Undo Yogurt Yogurt, known as the probiotic powerhouse, is rich in live probiotics like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, which support a balanced gut microbiome. A meta-analysis reveals that higher yogurt consumption correlates with a 7% reduction in colorectal cancer risk. The lactic acid bacteria in yogurt may produce antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. For snack ideas, try Greek yogurt with fresh berries or yogurt parfaits topped with granola. These snacks are as nourishing and gut-friendly as they're tasty! Tree nuts Tree nuts like almonds, cashews, Brazil nuts, more particularly, walnuts offer fiber, healthy fats, and plant compounds like ellagitannins. One clinical trial (published earlier this year in Cancer Prevention Research ) showed 28 g of walnuts daily reduced inflammation markers and vimentin levels, proteins tied to aggressive colon tumors. Furthermore, as Dr. Salhab references, in stage III colon cancer patients, research shows, eating two servings of tree nuts daily reduced disease recurrence by 42%. Aim for a daily nut handful or mix walnuts into trail mix or oatmeal for an antioxidant boost. Apples An apple a day might even keep the big C (cancer) at bay. Apples, especially with their skin, offer soluble and insoluble fiber plus flavonoids. One case–control study linked consuming at least one apple daily to a 47% lower risk of colorectal cancer. Fiber aids bowel regularity and toxin removal, while phytonutrients support gut health. Snack on apple slices with almond butter or part of a lunch fruit salad. Citrus fruits Hydrating and fiber‑rich citrus fruits, like oranges, grapefruits, and clementines, are not only high in fiber, but their water content, vitamins, and bioactive compounds also add to their numerous health benefits. A study, published in Nature , shows citrus intake may decrease colorectal cancer risk by up to 18%. The combination of antioxidants, fiber, and hydration supports digestion and reduces carcinogen exposure in the colon. Moreover, you can enjoy them fresh, in smoothies, or sprinkled in salads. Watermelon Made of over 90% water, watermelon aids hydration and regular digestion. This luscious fruit is not only crucial for colon health, but the lycopene and antioxidants in watermelon contribute anti-inflammatory benefits, slashing the risk of colorectal cancer considerably. What's more? Fresh watermelon slices or blended into agua fresca are a refreshing addition to your daily diet. Salsa and guacamole This one, we hardly see it coming! Tomato-based salsa provides lycopene and fiber, while avocado adds monounsaturated fats, fiber (about 10 g per medium avocado), and antioxidants. Mix them together for a gut‑health powerhouse . As per research, superfruit avocado consumption has been shown to lower colon cancer risk. Moreover, tomatoes and avocados together offer synergistic benefits. So, spruce up your snacking habit using these as dips for whole‑grain crackers or chopped vegetables. The information provided in this story is intended for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your diet, undergoing cancer screenings, or adopting any preventive strategies. If you have symptoms (e.g., rectal bleeding, persistent abdominal pain) or a family history of colon cancer, seek medical evaluation promptly. Study shows new links between high fat diets, colon cancer
Indian Express
3 days ago
- Health
- Indian Express
‘I am being vegetarian now': Priyanka Chopra Jonas shares her go-to meals when in India and the US; here's why they are good for you
Priyanka Chopra Jonas' shift to Hollywood might have put her on the global map, but it has surely left the Desi Girl craving for her favourite Indian dishes. During the promotion of her latest release Heads of State, she shared some of her favourite meals to indulge in while in India as well as the US. 'Dinner always starts with soup. I love having a nice, warm soup. Then, having the same that I have for lunch. It is super tasty, and healthy. Then I have various other things, I love dal, I love bhindi. I love aloo gobhi. I am being vegetarian now. Then, I always need a dahi, I love having raita and achaar is very important. Salad's very important,' she told the host. 'Now when I'm in the US, I am usually not a sandwich person. I don't like sandwiches, but I always like roast fish with veggies. I love a good, fresh salad,' she added. Many like to begin their meals with a bowl of scrumptious and filling soup. But, turns out, apart from being an appetiser, beginning a meal with soup also has several health benefits! Delhi-based nutritionist Pooja Bohra shared some benefits to starting your meals with a warm vegetable soup: *It is a high source of fluids. *Soups are healthy and nutritious. *Soup preserves its nutritional value. *They are full of healthy fibres. *Soups are rich in taste. *It is a powerhouse of antioxidants. *Soups fill up the volume in your stomach. *It leaves less room for more calorie-dense food item Kanikka Malhotra, consultant dietician and certified diabetes educator, tells 'Regular consumption of curd after lunch can significantly alter gut microbiota composition due to its probiotic content, primarily Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains. These live cultures enhance beneficial bacterial populations, improving microbial diversity and suppressing harmful bacteria. According to her, the lactic acid bacteria in curd strengthens gut barrier function, reduces inflammation, and promotes short-chain fatty acid production, which supports colon health. Curd's probiotics also improve nutrient absorption, reduce bloating, and may lower the risk of inflammatory bowel conditions by balancing gut flora. However, pairing curd with spicy dishes may not be suitable for all. The contrast in temperature between cold curd and hot spices could lead to digestive discomfort, particularly in individuals with sensitive stomachs. 'There is no evidence suggesting that the combination is harmful. However, some individuals with sensitive stomachs might experience discomfort due to the contrasting temperatures,' she added. Sushma PS, chief dietitian, Jindal Naturecure Institute said that salads are alkaline foods that serve as a preventive measure against acid accumulation within the body, supporting gentle detoxification processes. 'The consumption of a salad promotes gastrointestinal health by incorporating ingredients characterised by low acidity levels and rich fibre, vitamin, and mineral content, which are essential for digestive well-being,' said Sushma. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
Mint
5 days ago
- Health
- Mint
Do probiotics work?
A DAZZLING menagerie of microbes live inside the human gut—by some counts a few thousand different species. Most residents of this gut microbiome are not the disease-causing kind. In fact, many do useful jobs, such as breaking down certain carbohydrates, fibres and proteins that the human body would otherwise struggle to digest. Some even produce essential compounds the body cannot make on its own, like B vitamins and short-chain fatty acids, which help regulate inflammation, influence the immune system and affect metabolism. As awareness of the microbiome has grown, the shelves of health-food shops have become stocked with products designed to boost good bacteria. These usually fall into two categories: probiotics, capsules containing live (but freeze-dried) bacteria that, in theory, spring back to life once inside your gut; and prebiotics, pills made of fibres that beneficial bacteria feed on. There are good scientific reasons to tend one's microbiome. Having a diverse assortment of gut bugs, with plenty of the good kind, seems to confer broad health benefits. A varied microbial population can fend off pathogens like E. Coli, by competing with them for nutrients and space. Reduced diversity, by contrast, has been linked to obesity, type-2 diabetes and irritable bowel syndrome. There is also evidence that having greater microbiome diversity, as well as a higher total number of microbes, are associated with improved recovery from gastrointestinal surgery. The microbiome's influence stretches well beyond the gut. A diverse microbiome seems to be important for brain health too: people with depression have less microbial variety in their guts than those without do, for example. One study from 2023, published in the journal Brain, found that transplanting the microbiome of patients with Alzheimer's into a rat caused the rat to develop memory problems. An off-kilter microbiome has also been linked to respiratory infections: mice with fewer gut microbes are more likely to catch pneumonia or influenza. To keep the microbiome healthy, diet is key. Microbes thrive on foods rich in fibre and digestion-resistant starch, so munching on fresh fruit, vegetables, legumes and nuts is a good place to start. Fermented foods and drinks, such as yogurt, sauerkraut and kombucha, also contain friendly micro-organisms like Lactobacillus. Avoiding unnecessary antibiotics is important, as they wipe out good bacteria along with the bad. Supplements seem equally appealing, but because they are not regulated as medicines, many have not been rigorously tested. 'It is absolute cowboy territory in terms of marketing", says Ted Dinan, a psychiatrist at University College Cork who studies the influence of the microbiome on mental health. Fortunately for consumers based in America, Britain and Canada, academics in those countries have developed apps (each called The Probiotic Guide) that can be used to search for probiotic products and check what scientific evidence, if any, backs them up. Nothing so comprehensive exists for prebiotics, as yet. Taking the wrong product may not do much good, but it probably won't do much harm either. 'You really cannot overdose on probiotics," says Glenn Gibson, a microbiologist at the University of Reading. Taking too many prebiotics, however, could temporarily disrupt the microbiome. The likely side effect? 'Gas", he says. 'But that's more just antisocial than anything else." © 2025, The Economist Newspaper Ltd. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on
IOL News
5 days ago
- Health
- IOL News
Cavities can spread: why kissing and sharing utensils is riskier than you think
But did you know that tooth decay can actually be contagious? Image: Instagram When we think about cavities, most of us imagine sugary drinks, skipped brushing sessions, or that stubborn sweet tooth. But did you know that tooth decay can actually be contagious? Yes, the bacteria behind cavities can spread between people even through something as ordinary (and affectionate) as a kiss. It sounds surprising, even a little unsettling, but experts say it's a real and common health issue. Let's unpack what this means for everyday life, why it happens, and what you can do to protect your smile and your loved ones' smiles, too. Tooth decay: it all starts with bacteria Cavities, also called dental caries, happen when certain bacteria in our mouths break down sugars and produce acid. Over time, this acid eats away at tooth enamel, creating holes. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus bacteria are the main culprits responsible for tooth decay. These bacteria live in dental plaque, thrive in sugary environments, and are the leading culprits in tooth decay. How do cavities become 'contagious'? While you can't catch a literal cavity from someone, you can catch the bacteria that cause it. The "Journal of Dental Research" explains: 'Tooth decay is an infectious disease, and the bacteria can spread through saliva.' That means everyday actions, such as kissing, sharing a fork or spoon, tasting each other's drinks, or even blowing on your baby's food, can all pass these bacteria from one mouth to another. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste Image: Pixabay This bacterial transfer is most common in families. Research from the Journal of Dental Research shows parents (especially mothers) often pass these cavity-causing bacteria to their children during infancy and toddler years, a process known as 'vertical transmission.' Will you get sick if you 'catch' these bacteria? Not necessarily, and this is where it gets interesting. Even if someone transfers Streptococcus mutans to you, whether you get cavities depends on other factors: Your oral hygiene habits (do you brush and floss regularly?) Your diet (do you snack on sweets and acidic drinks often ?) Genetics (some people naturally have softer enamel) Saliva flow (dry mouth makes cavities more likely) In other words, bacteria start the process, but lifestyle, diet, and daily habits decide the outcome. Why poor hygiene makes things worse If you don't brush twice a day and floss, plaque builds up on your teeth. This sticky film is the perfect home for bacteria to multiply. Once there's a higher concentration of bacteria in your mouth, you're not only at greater risk of tooth decay yourself, but also more likely to pass those bacteria on to others, your partner, kids, or even friends when sharing food. That's why dentists and health experts stress the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene to protect not just yourself, but the people around you. Every day, moments can unknowingly spread cavity-causing bacteria. What are the signs you might have cavities? At first, cavities might not hurt or show obvious signs. But early clues can include: Brown or black spots on teeth Small visible holes or 'pits' Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods Pain when biting down Dentists recommend regular check-ups so cavities can be caught before they get painful. Why it matters: Cavities are more than cosmetic Untreated cavities don't just mean fillings or cosmetic concerns. They can lead to serious infections if decay reaches the tooth pulp, sometimes requiring root canals or even tooth removal. According to the World Health Organisation, the bacteria can also enter the bloodstream, which is a bigger health concern, especially for people with compromised immune systems. How to protect yourself and others Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. Floss every day. Limit sugary snacks and drinks. Avoid sharing utensils or cleaning a baby's dummy with your mouth. Stay hydrated, saliva helps wash away acids. Visit your dentist regularly.
Yahoo
11-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Scientists make concerning discoveries while studying mice guts: 'Took a turn for the worse'
Microplastics have infiltrated our bodies, including our brains and blood, and now one new study asserts that they could be wreaking havoc on our guts. The research, summarized on Science Alert, found that the smallest type of microplastics, nanoplastics, led to changes in protein production, gene activity, bacteria levels, and the microRNA coding inside cells when fed to mice. "Overall, the integrity and health of the guts of the mice took a turn for the worse," Science Alert wrote. For instance, the beneficial bacteria Lactobacillus decreased while a potentially harmful one, Ruminococcaceae, increased. And two proteins that normally seal and protect the gut became less abundant. "Given the current limitations in nanoplastic detection technologies and the uncertainties associated with extrapolating animal model results to humans, continued research is critical to accurately evaluate the potential long-term health effects of nanoplastics in humans," immunologist Yueh-Hsia Luo, who wasn't involved in the study, told the site. We already know that microplastics are accumulating inside our bodies. One study, for example, found them in all 23 semen samples examined. Another piece of research discovered that we can absorb microplastics directly into our brains as we breathe. Meanwhile, this new study adds to a body of research investigating the effects of microplastic exposure. For instance, one study on pigs suggested that these tiny plastic pieces can affect the functioning of the nervous system connected to digestion. Another paper found a link between microplastics and chronic kidney disease in mice. Although we are already exposed to microplastics through our air, water, soil, and food, we can help limit the number of new ones entering the environment by reducing our plastic use. You can help by reducing your dependence on plastic. For instance, invest in a reusable water bottle and shopping bag, and bring your own to-go containers when you dine out. Meanwhile, one group of researchers has found a way to remove microplastics from farm soil using a type of processed farm waste, and scientists are also working on ways to remove them from our water. Do you worry about the quality of the air inside your home? Yes — often Yes — but only sometimes Only when it's bad outside No — I never do Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
