Getting a case of acid reflux (heartburn) once in a while isn't unusual, but some people suffer from burning discomfort, bloating and belching almost every time they eat. About 20% of the population has gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), chronic acid reflux condition that's diagnosed by a doctor.
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Research in mice shows how diet alters immune system function through a gut microbe
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Digestive health is the foundation of overall well-being, influencing everything from nutrient absorption to immunity and even mental health. When the body struggles to produce enough digestive enzymes, patients may experience bloating, discomfort, and reduced nutrient uptake. In such cases, digestive enzyme supplements can play a crucial role in improving gut health and enhancing overall quality of life.
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Did you know that the manufacturing of aloe vera extracts is one of the largest botanical industries in the world? In the U.S., it has found widespread use in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical and food industries.
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You’ve heard aloe vera soothes sunburns, but did you know it’s packed with antioxidants, hydrates your skin, and even supports digestion? This powerhouse plant does more than just cool your skin—it boosts immunity, fights inflammation, and could even help manage blood sugar. Whether you’re looking for healthier hair, smoother skin, or digestive relief, aloe vera has a surprising range of benefits waiting for you to discover.
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Papayas and papaya enzyme supplements are often used to help support digestion and gut health. And if you’re someone who experiences symptoms like bloating and gas, this may seem worth a shot. But before you start changing your diet or taking digestive enzymes, learn more about what papaya enzyme is and how it affects your stomach and gut.
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You may know of papaya as the orange-colored tropical fruit that’s consumed for its flavor and impressive nutrient profile, but how often do you think about its star ingredient — papain?
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Intestinal diseases, such as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) and colorectal cancer (CRC) generally characterized by clinical symptoms, including malabsorption, intestinal dysfunction, injury, and microbiome imbalance, as well as certain secondary intestinal disease complications, continue to be serious public health problems worldwide. The role of vitamin K (VK) on intestinal health has drawn growing interest in recent years. In addition to its role in blood coagulation and bone health, several investigations continue to explore the role of VK as an emerging novel biological compound with the potential function of improving intestinal health. This study aims to present a thorough review on the bacterial sources, intestinal absorption, uptake of VK, and VK deficiency in patients with intestinal diseases, with emphasis on the effect of VK supplementation on immunity, anti-inflammation, intestinal microbes and its metabolites, antioxidation, and coagulation, and promoting epithelial development. Besides, VK-dependent proteins (VKDPs) are another crucial mechanism for VK to exert a gastroprotection role for their functions of anti-inflammation, immunomodulation, and anti-tumorigenesis. In summary, published studies preliminarily show that VK presents a beneficial effect on intestinal health and may be used as a therapeutic drug to prevent/treat intestinal diseases, but the specific mechanism of VK in intestinal health has yet to be elucidated.
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A paper released on 20th Nov 2023 in the BMJ takes a close look at B12, common practice, and determination of need[1]. This interesting review is aimed at primary care clinicians but represents a good reference paper for all healthcare professionals utilising B12 supplements and nutritional guidance to resolve B12 deficiency or dietary inadequacy. Importantly the paper explores the interindividual variations in absorption, biliary B12 excretion and the somewhat insecure determination of need and adequacy. Whilst the interventions recommended include a focus on intramuscular injections, oral supplementation is also discussed.
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As a functional medicine practitioner, one of the most common issues I see in my telehealth practice is leaky gut (or a compromised gut lining).
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