All articles tagged with #probiotics
Engineered Bifidobacterium longum delivers SumIL-2 directly into pancreatic tumors to activate cancer-fighting T cells, slowing tumor growth in animal studies; the effect improves when combined with chemotherapy, radiation, or anti-PD-L1 immunotherapy, and hinges on the tumors’ low-oxygen microenvironment to localize treatment. Human safety and delivery method remain to be tested.
Vogue highlights eight gut-friendly breakfasts—emphasizing fiber, probiotics, and diverse plant sources—with options from Greek yogurt with fruit to kefir smoothies, oats with fruit and nuts, chia seed pudding, whole-grain bagels with salmon, avocado toast, cottage cheese, eggs with kimchi, and green tea; experts note hydration, omega-3s, and avoiding high-saturated-fat or high-sugar choices, plus the importance of consistency over perfection to support a healthy gut microbiome.
Scientists are testing a probiotic treatment derived from bat microbiomes to slow the spread of white-nose syndrome (Pd fungus) in North American bats. Early field work in the Northwest Territories shows some promise, particularly in cooler, subarctic caves, but habitat disruption from wildfires and varying bat species’ resilience mean results are not yet certain; more data are needed next spring to determine wider application.
Regular Greek yogurt consumption is generally OK for gut health and can help by delivering probiotics (like L. bulgaricus and Bifidobacteria) that balance gut flora, while its high protein and lower carbohydrate content can aid fullness and modest blood-sugar responses. For best results, choose plain varieties without added sugars and pair with fiber-rich foods (berries, nuts) to support digestion; note that lactose remains in yogurt and dairy isn’t suitable for everyone, and probiotic strains/amounts vary by product, so look for live and active cultures on the label.
Lab experiments show worker honeybees fed probiotics plus the prebiotic inulin survived prolonged cold better than sugar-fed bees, but the same supplements offered little protection against extreme heat; researchers caution that cage results may not reflect real colonies and emphasize nutrition should complement, not replace, broader habitat restoration and forage improvements.
A 12-week trial in Japan published in Aging found that overweight men aged 50–74 who ate daily plain yogurt containing the probiotic BB536, along with dietary counseling and regular exercise, slowed biological aging by about 2.2% as measured by DunedinPACE. The effect occurred independently of weight loss or BMI changes, with improvements also seen in a kidney-function DNA marker. Researchers note the benefit may come from the combination of probiotics, diet, and exercise and call for larger, long-term trials to confirm.
A 12-week trial in 48 overweight Japanese men found that daily plain yogurt, plus dietary guidance and regular walking, slowed biological aging by about 2.2% (measured by DunedinPACE), suggesting a combined benefit from probiotics, diet, and exercise—though the study is small and short, and results can’t yet be generalized.
A small 12-week trial in 48 overweight men (Japan) found that daily yogurt (with probiotics) plus diet changes and walking slowed the pace of biological aging by about 2.2% as measured by DunedinPACE, independent of weight loss; results suggest a combined effect of probiotics, diet, and exercise, with a simultaneous improvement in a kidney-function DNA marker, but the study's small size and short duration limit conclusions about long-term health benefits.
A nutritionist argues that gut health starts with regulating the nervous system rather than relying on probiotics, explaining that chronic stress and a dysregulated nervous system disrupt digestion via the gut–brain axis and the vagus nerve. She suggests switching to a parasympathetic “rest and digest” state and using techniques like diaphragmatic breathing, eating in a relaxed environment, getting 7–9 hours of sleep, and regular exercise to improve digestion and reduce inflammation. Probiotics and supplements can help, but may not suffice if stress remains high; persistent issues should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Nutritionists highlight seven traditional Indian foods—homemade curd, kanji, idli/dosa batter, moong dal khichdi, bananas, lentils and beans, and desi ghee—that support gut health through probiotics, prebiotic fiber, and gentle digestion, while stressing that overall habits such as hydration, sleep, stress management, and avoiding ultra-processed foods also play a key role.
A UT Health San Antonio team found that supplementing the gut bacterium Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, depleted in lupus, reduced lupus biomarkers and protected organs in mouse lupus models. The bacterium improved fiber digestion, boosted anti-inflammatory cells, and normalized gut barriers, suggesting a potential probiotic approach for lupus. However, F. prausnitzii is oxygen-sensitive and not a lasting probiotic, so researchers will investigate how its metabolites interact with the immune system and how diet influences its levels before considering human applications. The study, published in Nature Communications, marks the first demonstration that restoring this bacterium can mitigate lupus-related dysfunction in animals.
A Vogue wellness piece highlights eight probiotic-rich foods—yogurt, kefir, kombucha, natto, miso, sauerkraut, kimchi, and cottage cheese—and explains how probiotics differ from prebiotics, stressing that a diet combining both supports a diverse gut microbiome and strengthens immunity.
Fermented foods—yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir and more—support gut health by delivering probiotics and fermentation-derived nutrients, potentially lowering inflammation and improving blood sugar while boosting gut microbiome diversity; aim for 1–2 servings daily with a variety of types, watch sodium in some choices, and consult a doctor if you’re immunocompromised.
The article explains how probiotic and prebiotic drinks can support gut health and digestion, highlighting the importance of high CFU counts (at least 10 billion) and low sugar, while noting that individual microbiomes vary and results depend on ingredients; it also covers traditional probiotic foods (yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi) and prebiotic fibers (onions, garlic, bananas, whole grains), and mentions supplements as an option when everyday probiotic foods aren’t feasible.
A nutritionist highlights eight probiotic and prebiotic foods (yogurt, kefir, sugar-free kombucha, miso/natto/kimchi/tempeh, sauerkraut, fermented pickles, sourdough, and certain cheeses) as simple ways to diversify the gut microbiota, stressing that daily probiotic and prebiotic intake within a Mediterranean-style diet supports immune health and overall well-being.