Disease Archives

Diet Recommendations for IBD or IBS: Eat Well, Feel Your Best

Diet, Digestive Health, Disease / By Staff Writer

When you’re living with IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease) or IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), what’s in your fridge and on your plate matters. A healthy, tailored diet not only eases symptoms but also boosts the effects of probiotics, giving your gut its best shot at healing and balance.

Best Diet Practices for IBD (Crohn’s Disease & Ulcerative Colitis)

What is IBD?

IBD creates real, lasting inflammation inside your digestive tract. Although no diet can cure IBD, eating the right foods makes a big difference in how you feel day-to-day. Here are some tips you can use to manage and perhaps reduce your IBD symptoms.

For a complete discussion of the differences between IBD and IBS, read our informative primer by clicking here.

Core IBD Eating Strategies:

Eat Softer, Lower-Fiber Foods During Flare-Ups. Options Like White Rice, Plain Cereals, Well-Cooked Veggies, Applesauce, and Tender Proteins (Chicken, Eggs, Tofu) are Easier to Digest and Help Calm Your Gut During Flare-Ups.
Focus On Gentle Proteins Such as Poultry, Fish, Eggs, and Nut/Seed Butters.
Fatty Fish (Like Salmon) Brings Inflammation Down, Thanks to Omega-3s.
Choose Healthy Fats: Avocados, Olive Oil, and Nut Butters Support Healing of the Gut Lining.
During Remission, Gradually Add More Fiber From Fruits, Vegetables, Beans, and Whole Grains, but Watch How Your Gut Reacts.
Nourish With Probiotics: Yogurt (With Live Cultures), Kefir, Fermented Veggies, and Miso Help Rebalance Gut Bacteria and May Aid Remission.

Foods to Avoid if You Have IBD:

Seeds, Nuts, Popcorn (Can Irritate The Gut When Inflamed)
High-Fat, Fried, or Strongly Spiced Foods
Caffeine, Alcohol, and Carbonated Drinks
Raw Skins Of Fruits and Fibrous Vegetables During Flare-Ups
Dairy, If Lactose Intolerant

Smart Diet Choices for IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)

What is IBS?

IBS is about gut function, not damage. Unlike IBD, with IBS your gut lining appears to be fine, but it doesn’t feel that way. However, like IBD, the wrong foods can trigger bloating, gas, and unpredictable emergency bathroom trips.

Winning IBS Meal Strategies:

Try A Low-FODMAP Diet: This Diet Temporarily Removes “Fermentable Carbs” (Like Onions, Garlic, Wheat, Certain Fruits, and Beans), then Reintroduces Them One at a Time to Find Your Triggers.
Gentle Proteins: Chicken, Turkey, Fish, Eggs, and Tofu are Least Likely to Upset Your Gut.
Cooked Veggies Over Raw: Steam or Bake Carrots, Zucchini, and Squash. Limit Broccoli, Cauliflower, and Cabbage, which Can Make Gas and Bloating Worse.
Stick To Soluble Fiber: Oats, Peeled Apples, Bananas, and Carrots Help Soothe Gut Tissues.
Low-Lactose Dairy Or Lactose-Free Milk: If You’re Sensitive to Lactose, Choose Alternatives or Probiotic Yogurt.
Probiotics: Combining Dietary Changes with Daily Probiotic Supplements (Especially Those With Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium) Helps Ease Gas, Pain, and Irregularity.

Foods to Avoid in IBS:

High-FODMAP Foods: Wheat, Beans, Honey, Milk, Onions, Apples
Caffeine, Spicy Foods, Fried Foods
Cruciferous Veggies: Broccoli, Cabbage, Brussels Sprouts
Artificial Sweeteners like Sorbitol and Xylitol

Pro-Tip: Keep a food journal! Your symptoms and triggers are unique. Tracking what you eat helps spot patterns and avoid flare-ups.

Your Gut Health Action Plan:

Work With Your Doctor Or a Registered Dietitian, Especially for Personalized Plans or if You’re Struggling with Symptoms You’re Unable To Manage Alone.
Be Consistent With Dietary Changes and Always Combine with Daily Probiotics for Better Results.
Shop Smart: Choose Probiotic Supplements That Clearly List Strains and CFU (Colony Forming Units), Like Those From Endomune.

Want to Learn More?

Explore these resources for IBD/IBS-friendly diets and the science behind them:

Diet Recommendations for IBD or IBS: Eat Well, Feel Your Best Read More »

IBD or IBS? Understanding the Difference and How Probiotics Can Help

Diet, Digestive Health, Disease / By Staff Writer

Confused about IBD and IBS?

You’re not alone. Millions of people struggle to understand the difference between IBD and IBS – two conditions that sound similar but affect your digestive system in completely different ways.

Understanding which condition you have will make all the difference in finding the right treatment and feeling better faster. Let’s explore these conditions in simple terms and learn how probiotics can transform your digestive health.

What Makes IBD and IBS Different?

These two digestive conditions share similar-sounding names, but they impact your gut in vastly different ways. Here’s what sets them apart:

IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease): The Serious Inflammation Fighter

IBD stands for Inflammatory Bowel Disease – a serious condition that creates real, visible damage in your digestive tract.

Key characteristics of IBD:

Location: Affects Your Small Intestine, Large Intestine, Or Both
Main Types: Includes Crohn’s Disease And Ulcerative Colitis
What Happens: Your Immune System Mistakenly Attacks Your Digestive Tract
Visible Damage: Doctors Can See Inflammation, Ulcers, And Tissue Damage During Tests
Symptoms: Bloody Diarrhea, Significant Weight Loss, Fever, And Extreme Fatigue
Genetic Component: Family History Increases Your Risk, Though No Single Gene Causes IBD

Take Action: If you experience bloody stools or unexplained weight loss, schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist immediately.

IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome): The Functional Troublemaker

IBS stands for Irritable Bowel Syndrome—a functional disorder that affects how your gut works without causing permanent damage.

Key characteristics of IBS:

What It Is: A Disorder Of Gut-Brain Communication, Not Structural Damage
Appearance: Your Intestines Look Completely Normal Under A Microscope
Symptoms You’ll Experience: Abdominal Pain, Bloating, Gas, And Bathroom Habit Changes
No Progression: IBS Never Develops Into IBD or Causes Lasting Intestinal Damage
Daily Impact: Can Significantly Affect Your Quality Of Life Despite Being “Functional”

Quick Reference: IBD vs. IBS Comparison

How Probiotics Combat Both IBD and IBS

Probiotics – are beneficial bacteria that keep your gut healthy, provide powerful support for both conditions, although they work differently for each.

Probiotics Combat IBD Inflammation

Scientific evidence shows probiotics can:

Reduce Inflammatory Markers In Your Digestive Tract
Strengthen Your Intestinal Barrier Function
Help Prevent Flare-Ups When Combined With Medical Treatment
Support Your Gut’s Natural Healing Processes

Important note: Probiotics complement but never replace prescribed IBD medications. Always work with your gastroenterologist.

Probiotics Combat IBS

Research Demonstrates Probiotics Can:

Significantly Reduce Bloating, Gas, And Abdominal Pain
Improve Bowel Movement Regularity And Consistency
Enhance Gut-Brain Communication
Provide Relief Within 4-8 Weeks Of Consistent Use

Specific strains that help IBS

Lactobacillus Species For Pain Reduction
Bifidobacterium Strains For Bloating Relief
Multi-Strain Formulas For Comprehensive Digestive Support

Ready to start feeling better? Explore EndoMune’s Advanced Probiotic clinically proven probiotic formulations designed specifically for digestive health support.

Your Action Plan: Choosing the Right Probiotic

Essential Selection Criteria:

Look For Specific Strain Names On The Label (Not Just “Lactobacillus”)
Choose Multi-Strain Formulas For Broader Digestive Support
Verify Clinical Research Backing The Specific Strains
Commit To Consistency—Take Daily For At Least 4-8 Weeks
Combine With Lifestyle Changes: Fiber-Rich Diet And Regular Exercise

Important Safety Note:

Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have diagnosed digestive conditions or take medications.

Take Control of Your Digestive Health Now

Understanding whether you have IBD or IBS empowers you to make informed decisions about your health. While IBD requires medical management, IBS responds well to dietary changes, stress reduction, and targeted probiotic support.

Don’t let digestive issues control your life any longer. Whether you’re dealing with IBD or IBS, the right probiotic support can make a meaningful difference in how you feel every day.

Ready to start your journey to better digestive health? Check out EndoMune’s probiotic lineup to find probiotic supplements with clinical-grade, multi-strain probiotic formulas clinically proven and designed for real gut health support.

Want to Dig Deeper?

Here are some research links you can trust for more info:

IBD or IBS? Understanding the Difference and How Probiotics Can Help Read More »

The Importance of Water for Gut Health

Diet, Digestive Health, Disease, Probiotics / By Staff Writer

We constantly hear about the importance of drinking enough water for overall health, but one benefit that deserves more attention is how water is critical for gut health. Proper hydration doesn’t just quench your thirst – it plays a vital role in maintaining a balanced, diverse gut microbiome and supporting optimal digestive function.

Why Your Gut Needs Water: Essential Functions

Water is not merely a passive participant in digestion; it’s an active component that enables many critical gut functions – here is a short list:

Nutrient Absorption and Digestion – Adequate hydration enhances your body’s ability to break down food and absorb essential nutrients. Research published in the European Journal of Nutrition shows that water is necessary for the proper function of digestive enzymes that break down food particles into absorbable nutrients [1]. Without sufficient water, these enzymes cannot work efficiently, potentially leading to nutrient deficiencies despite a healthy diet.
Preventing Constipation – One of water’s most important roles in gut health is maintaining proper stool consistency. When you’re adequately hydrated, water softens stool and promotes regular bowel movements. A systematic review in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology confirmed that increased fluid intake significantly improves constipation symptoms in people with functional constipation [2].
Supporting the Mucosal Barrier – Your intestinal lining contains a protective mucus layer that acts as a barrier between gut bacteria and your intestinal cells. According to research in Frontiers in Immunology, proper hydration helps maintain this mucus layer, which is crucial for preventing harmful bacteria from penetrating the gut wall and causing inflammation [3].
Microbiome Balance – Recent studies have revealed that hydration status directly affects gut microbiome composition. Research published in Gut Microbes showed that dehydration can reduce beneficial bacterial populations while allowing potentially harmful bacteria to flourish [4]. Proper hydration helps maintain the delicate balance of your gut’s microbial ecosystem.

Signs Your Gut Needs More Water

How do you know if dehydration is affecting your gut health? Watch for these common indicators:

Chronic Constipation: Hard, Difficult-To-Pass Stools Are Often A Sign Of Insufficient Water Intake.
Slow Digestion: Feeling Unusually Full Long After Meals Might Indicate Your Digestive System Lacks Adequate Fluid For Proper Function.
Frequent Heartburn: Dehydration Can Reduce Mucus Production In The Stomach, Potentially Worsening Acid Reflux Symptoms.
Increased Bloating: Insufficient Water Can Slow Digestive Transit Time, Leading To Increased Gas Production And Bloating.

Hydration Strategies for Optimal Gut Health

The consistency of your hydration is important. Here are practical strategies to ensure your gut receives the hydration it needs:

Maintain Consistent Daily Intake
1. Research in the American Journal of Gastroenterology suggests that consistent water intake throughout the day is more beneficial for gut function than consuming large amounts at once [7]. Aim for 8-10 cups (64-80 ounces) daily, adjusting for your activity level, climate, and individual needs.
Consume Water-Rich Foods
1. Many fruits and vegetables contain high water content while also providing beneficial fiber and prebiotics that support gut health. Consider incorporating these water-rich foods into your diet:
  1. Cucumber: 96% Water Content
  2. Watermelon: 92% Water Content
  3. Strawberries: 91% Water Content
  4. Oranges: 87% Water Content
  5. Spinach: 93% Water Content

Address Acute Dehydration Promptly

During episodes of acute diarrhea or vomiting, your body loses fluids rapidly, potentially disrupting your gut microbiome. A study in Microbiome demonstrated that even short periods of dehydration can have lasting effects on gut bacterial populations [9]. Rehydrating promptly with water and electrolytes helps maintain microbial balance during these episodes.

Supporting Gut Health: Beyond Hydration

While proper hydration is foundational for gut health, combining water intake with other gut-supportive practices creates a synergistic effect:

Probiotic Supplementation

Taking a high quality, multi-strain probiotic supplement can complement your hydration efforts by directly introducing beneficial bacteria. Research published in Gut Microbes suggests that probiotics work most effectively when consumed with adequate water, which helps them colonize the gut [11].

Prebiotic Fiber

Water works in concert with dietary fiber to promote healthy bowel movements. According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, combining adequate hydration with prebiotic fiber intake significantly improves gut transit time and stool consistency [12].

Key Takeaway: Water is a Simple, Yet Powerful Gut Health Connection

The connection between water intake and gut health represents one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to support your digestive wellness.

For optimal gut health, combine proper hydration with a balanced diet rich in fiber, probiotic foods, and consider a high-quality probiotic supplement like EndoMune Advanced Probiotic. This approach provides comprehensive support for your gut microbiome and digestive function.

The path to good gut health isn’t complicated. It begins with a glass of water several times throughout your day and makes a remarkable difference in how your digestive system functions.

References

Popkin, B. M., D’Anci, K. E., & Rosenberg, I. H. (2010). Water, hydration, and health. European Journal of Nutrition, 68(8), 439-458.
Boilesen, S. N., Tahan, S., Dias, F. C., Melli, L. C., & de Morais, M. B. (2017). Water and fluid intake in the prevention and treatment of functional constipation in children and adolescents: a systematic review. Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, 51(4), S44-S50.
Chassaing, B., Raja, S. M., Lewis, J. D., Srinivasan, S., & Gewirtz, A. T. (2017). Colonic microbiota encroachment correlates with dysglycemia in humans. Frontiers in Immunology, 8, 1432.
Karl, J. P., Hatch, A. M., Arcidiacono, S. M., et al. (2018). Effects of psychological, environmental and physical stressors on the gut microbiota. Gut Microbes, 9(2), 88-103.
McDonald, D., Hyde, E., Debelius, J. W., et al. (2022). American Gut: an open platform for citizen science microbiome research. mSystems, 7(3), e00031-22.
Environmental Protection Agency. (2022). Private drinking water wells. Retrieved from EPA website.
Chang, L., Heitkemper, M. M., & Drossman, D. A. (2020). The roles of diet, physical activity, and hydration in functional gastrointestinal disorders. American Journal of Gastroenterology, 115(12), 1915-1928.
Stookey, J. D., Constant, F., & Gardner, C. D. (2022). Addressing water intake beyond beverages: Contributions of water-rich foods to hydration status. Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 122(8), 1586-1597.
Karl, J. P., Margolis, L. M., Madslien, E. H., et al. (2017). Changes in intestinal microbiota composition and metabolism coincide with increased intestinal permeability in young adults under prolonged physiological stress. Microbiome, 5(1), 156.
Prest, E. I., Hammes, F., van Loosdrecht, M. C. M., & Vrouwenvelder, J. S. (2016). Biological stability of drinking water: Controlling factors, methods, and challenges. Environmental Science & Technology, 50(15), 8167-8199.
Eloe-Fadrosh, E. A., Brady, A., Crabtree, J., et al. (2015). Functional dynamics of the gut microbiome in elderly people during probiotic consumption. Gut Microbes, 6(4), 378-389.
Yang, J., Wang, H. P., Zhou, L., & Zhou, C. F. (2012). Effect of dietary fiber on constipation: A meta analysis. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 96(1), 170-177.

The Importance of Water for Gut Health Read More »

Young child with curly hair smiling and holding a light blue toothbrush, promoting oral health and probiotics in a guide on preventing thrush.

Can Probiotics Help Stop Thrush? A Comprehensive Guide

Disease / By Staff Writer

Thrush, a common fungal infection caused by Candida yeast overgrowth, can be a frustrating and persistent issue. Traditionally thrush is treated with antifungals, but there’s growing interest in the potential of probiotics to help prevent and manage thrush. Let’s explore the relationship between probiotics and thrush, and whether these beneficial bacteria offer a natural solution.

Understanding Thrush and Its Causes

Thrush can affect various parts of the body, including the mouth, throat, and genital area. It often occurs when there’s an imbalance in the body’s gut microbiome, allowing Candida to flourish unchecked. Common risk factors include:

Recent Antibiotic Use
A Weakened Immune System
Certain Medications (E.G., Steroids, Inhaled Corticosteroids)
Poor Oral Hygiene
Dry Mouth Conditions

The Probiotic Potential: Can They Help Stop Thrush?

Probiotics, proven to support a healthy microbiome, show promise helping to manage and prevent thrush. Here’s how they might work:

Restoring Balance: Probiotics help replenish beneficial bacteria, potentially crowding out harmful Candida yeast.
Immune Support: Some probiotic strains help boost the body’s natural defenses against fungal overgrowth.
Competitive Inhibition: Certain probiotic species compete with Candida for nutrients and places to attach to the gut membrane – virtually crowding Candida out of the gut.

Research on Probiotics and Thrush

Several studies investigated the potential of probiotics in managing thrush:

A 2007 study found that elderly individuals consuming probiotic cheese had significantly lower yeast counts in their saliva.
A 2012 Brazilian study showed that regular consumption of a probiotic yogurt drink led to decreased Candida prevalence in saliva samples.
Multiple in vitro studies demonstrated the antifungal effects of various probiotic strains against Candida species.

While these results are promising, it’s important to note that more extensive research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of probiotics against thrush.

Choosing the Right Probiotics to Combat Thrush

When considering probiotics to help with thrush, look for products containing:

Lactobacillus species (especially L. acidophilus, L. rhamnosus, and L. casei)
Bifidobacterium species

These strains show the most promise in studies related to Candida management. Incidentally, EndoMune Advanced Probiotic contains each of these species of probiotic bacteria.

How to Use Probiotics for Thrush Prevention

To potentially help stop thrush with probiotics:

Incorporate Probiotic-Rich Foods: Yogurt, kefir, and other fermented foods can be beneficial and help avoid the need for probiotic supplements.
Consider Supplements: Look for high-quality probiotic supplements with the relevant strains described above or take EndoMune Advanced Probiotic. Importantly, if you chose probiotic supplements, regular, long-term use is more effective than sporadic consumption.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Using probiotics to combat or prevent thrush works best when combined with good oral hygiene.

Important Considerations

Although probiotics show promise, they’re not a cure-all for thrush. Keep in mind:

Probiotics should not replace your health provider’s prescribed antifungal treatments for active thrush infections.
If you have a weakened immune system, consult your healthcare provider before starting probiotics.
Results vary from person to person, and finding the right probiotic regimen may take time.

Key Takeaway: Probiotics – a Promising Approach to Thrush Treatment

While more research is needed, the evidence suggests that probiotics may indeed help in both the prevention and management of thrush. By supporting a balanced gut microbiome and boosting the body’s natural defenses, probiotics offer a promising, natural approach to keeping Candida overgrowth in check.

Remember, if you’re experiencing persistent symptoms of thrush, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Probiotics can be a valuable part of your health routine, but they work best as part of a comprehensive approach to overall wellness.

If you’re currently suffering from thrush and want to try a natural probiotic treatment, EndoMune Advanced Probiotic contains all the recommended probiotic bacteria in the referenced studies.

Citations:

Can Probiotics Help Stop Thrush? A Comprehensive Guide Read More »

10 Easy Steps to Protect Yourself from the FLU

10 Easy Steps to Protect Yourself for the 2024-25 Flu Season

Digestive Health, Disease / By Staff Writer

Are you prepared for the 2024-25 flu season? These easy-to-follow steps can help protect you and your loved ones.

As we approach the fall and winter months, health experts are already gearing up for the upcoming flu season. With the lessons learned from previous years, including the “tripledemic” of flu, RSV, and COVID-19 variants, it’s more important than ever to stay vigilant and protect our health.

The good news is that many people are more prepared than ever, scheduling appointments for flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccinations. However, vaccines alone aren’t enough to fully protect you and your family from respiratory viruses.

Here are 10 easy steps to protect yourself from the flu and safeguard your health, with a special focus on maintaining a healthy gut for a robust immune system.

Follow These 10 Easy Steps To Protect Yourself and Your Family From The Flu

Get vaccinated early: The CDC recommends getting your flu shot by the end of October. Early vaccination is particularly important for the 2024-25 season, as experts predict an earlier onset of flu activity [1].
Maintain social distancing when necessary: While restrictions have eased, it’s still wise to avoid close contact with people who are sick. If you’re feeling under the weather, do your part to protect others by keeping your distance.
Practice proper hand hygiene: Wash your hands often with plain soap and water for at least 20 seconds. When soap and water aren’t available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content [2].
Keep surfaces clean: Regularly disinfect high-touch surfaces at home and work. The flu virus can survive on hard surfaces for up to 48 hours [3].
Prioritize sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Good sleep is crucial for maintaining a strong immune system and a healthy gut microbiome [4].
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Proper hydration supports your body’s natural defense mechanisms and helps maintain a healthy gut lining [5].
Exercise regularly: Incorporate some form of physical activity into your daily routine. Exercise not only boosts your immune system but also promotes a diverse and healthy gut microbiome [6].
Manage stress: Pay attention to your emotional well-being and stress levels. Chronic stress can negatively impact both your immune system and gut health. Consider practices like meditation or yoga to help manage stress [7].
Eat a gut-friendly diet: Focus on consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fermented foods. A diverse, fiber-rich diet promotes a healthy gut microbiome, which in turn supports your immune system [8].
Consider probiotic supplementation: Taking a high-quality probiotic supplement, especially one containing multiple strains of beneficial bacteria and prebiotics, can help support your gut health and immune function. Products like EndoMune Advanced Probiotic can be particularly beneficial during flu season [9].

The Gut-Immune Connection

It’s crucial to understand that your gut health plays a vital role in your overall immune function. In fact, about 70-80% of your immune system resides in your gut [10]. A healthy, diverse gut microbiome helps train your immune system to distinguish between harmful pathogens and beneficial substances, leading to more effective immune responses.

By following these steps and paying special attention to your gut health, you’re not just avoiding the flu – you’re building a robust defense system against a variety of illnesses. Remember, a healthy gut means a healthier you!

While these steps can significantly reduce your risk of catching the flu, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider if you experience any flu-like symptoms or have concerns about your health.

Stay healthy, and don’t forget to give your gut the care it deserves this flu season with a EndoMune Probiotic Supplement!

References

[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). “Frequently Asked Influenza (Flu) Questions: 2024-2025 Season.” CDC.gov

[2] World Health Organization. (2024). “Hand Hygiene: Why, How & When?” WHO.int

[3] Greatorex, J. S., et al. (2011). “Survival of Influenza A(H1N1) on Materials Found in Households: Implications for Infection Control.” PLoS One

[4] Besedovsky, L., et al. (2012). “Sleep and immune function.” Pflugers Archiv

[5] Popkin, B. M., et al. (2010). “Water, Hydration and Health.” Nutrition Reviews

[6] Campbell, S. C., & Wisniewski, P. J. (2017). “Exercise is a Novel Promoter of Intestinal Health and Microbial Diversity.” Exercise and Sport Sciences Reviews

[7] Madison, A., & Kiecolt-Glaser, J. K. (2019). “Stress, inflammation, and microbiota.” Psychosomatic Medicine

[8] Valdes, A. M., et al. (2018). “Role of the gut microbiota in nutrition and health.” BMJ

[9] Hao, Q., et al. (2015). “Probiotics for preventing acute upper respiratory tract infections.” Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews

[10] Vighi, G., et al. (2008). “Allergy and the gastrointestinal system.” Clinical & Experimental Immunology

10 Easy Steps to Protect Yourself for the 2024-25 Flu Season Read More »

A Probiotic Solution For Long COVID

Digestive Health, Disease, Probiotics / By Staff Writer

Could taking a multi-species probiotic improve symptoms of Long COVID?

We ask this question because the chances are very good that you know someone who has experienced Long COVID.

More than 25 percent of the 134 million Americans who contracted COVID-19 had experienced symptoms of Long COVID, according to Census Bureau data.

Nearly 10 percent of those patients were still struggling with the very same collection of Long COVID symptoms, including brain fog, extreme fatigue, cognitive challenges, insomnia, depression and gastrointestinal problems.

Some of these Long COVID symptoms are connected to the health of your gut and the depletion of beneficial bacteria.

So, is it possible that a probiotic targeted with specific species of bacteria makes a real difference in treating Long COVID symptoms?

The Multi-species Advantage

Scientists at the Chinese University of Hong Kong addressed this probiotic possibility in a study that tracked the health of 463 patients experiencing Long COVID symptoms for six months.

A group of 232 patients were treated twice daily with a probiotic formulated with three strains of beneficial bacteria from the Bifidobacterium family along with three prebiotic compounds, while a second group received a placebo containing starch and a low dose of vitamin C.

(Bifidobacterium longum and Bifidobacterium bifidum are two of the key building block strains of beneficial bacteria contained in EndoMune Advanced Probiotic.)

Patients completed questionnaires that documented 14 symptoms of Long COVID and provided stool samples before the study began and after it ended.

Among those who received probiotics, a majority of them experienced welcome improvements in their Long COVID symptoms in all categories, highlighted by alleviations in memory loss, concentration problems, fatigue and general unwellness, as well as increases in bacterial diversity.

Planning for the Future

With changes coming in the CDC pipeline that would further loosen COVID isolation recommendations to match those for flu and RSV, it’s more important than ever to protect your immune health.

One of the best things you can do to keep your immune system running as it should be is to protect the diversity of bacteria in your gut which means taking a probiotic, ideally with multiple strains of beneficial bacteria like EndoMune.

By the way, fortifying your immune health is only one of many benefits you’ll get by taking a probiotic. Check out our 5 Reasons Why You Need a Probiotic article to get a handle on the many reasons why taking a multi-strain probiotic like EndoMune is good for many more health reasons.

Resources

The Lancet Infectious Diseases

A Probiotic Solution For Long COVID Read More »

IBS + Fibromyalgia + Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Digestive Health, Disease, Probiotics / By Staff Writer

Summary: The gut-brain link between irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is very real.

Several months ago, we discussed the genuine link between irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and disruptions in the gut-brain axis.

It’s hard to deny that connection, given that IBS patients experienced greater symptoms of depression and anxiety at rates more than double the norm compared to those without IBS.

Apparently, this same research team from the University of Missouri was just getting started in finding connections with IBS…

The painful link

A second look at data collected from more than 1.2 million IBS patients at 4,000 American hospitals yielded new connections with fibromyalgia, a condition punctuated by widespread and intense musculoskeletal pain, fatigue and cognitive problems, as well as chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS).

IBS patients were five times more likely to experience symptoms of fibromyalgia than those who weren’t dealing with IBS, according to the study appearing in the medical journal Biomedicines. Also, CFS was more prevalent among IBS patients, but not at as high a rate as fibromyalgia.

One interesting quirk in this analysis sheds light on younger people experiencing more gut-related problems than ever before: IBS patients with fibromyalgia or CFS were more likely to be younger compared than others dealing solely with IBS.

Also, the ever-present problems we face with the epidemic of obesity along with hypertension elevated the risks that IBS patients would face CFS or fibromyalgia too.

The why

When asked how fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome could “piggyback” with IBS to create new and painful challenges, scientists pointed to two very familiar culprits that create gut health problems:

Antibiotic use leads to bacterial imbalances in a patient’s microbiome.
Breakdowns in the gut wall allow waste products, toxic substances and other nasties to seep through the intestinal barrier and into your bloodstream, a condition better known as leaky gut.

Fortunately, the same non-drug solution for treating IBS — probiotics — is also a solution that has garnered some success in treating patients with fibromyalgia and CFS, according to a previous report. But not any probiotic will do.

If you really want to protect and improve the health of your gut, you’ll need a probiotic featuring multiple strains of beneficial bacteria that support the healthy microbial diversity of your gut.

Any probiotic you consider should also contain a prebiotic, the unsung heroes of gut health made of carbohydrates and non-digestible plant fibers that feed the good bacteria in your gut.

You can achieve both of your gut-healthy goals with EndoMune Advanced Probiotic, formulated with 10 strains of beneficial bacteria from Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus families, plus the proven probiotic FOS.

Resources

IBS + Fibromyalgia + Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Read More »

Could Probiotics Protect You From COVID?

Digestive Health, Disease, Probiotics / By Staff Writer

Summary: Probiotics may provide extra protection to unvaccinated people after exposure to COVID to delay infections and reduce their symptoms.

Since the beginning of the COVID era, medical science has acknowledged the connection between this serious respiratory disease and a person’s gut health.

Often, gut dysbiosis — disruptions in the healthy balance of bacteria in your gut — have been the focal point in studies that link your health to COVID.

Not so long ago, we learned how probiotics can do a lot of good to alleviate common symptoms for patients already suffering from Long COVID.

The benefits of probiotics may also extend to people exposed to COVID who haven’t received a vaccine, according to findings recently published in Clinical Nutrition.

Protection before a vaccine

Recognizing how effective probiotics were in relieving respiratory infections, researchers at Duke University and the University of North Carolina launched a study prior to the widespread release of vaccines in 2020 to test the protective effective of probiotics on the unvaccinated who had been exposed to COVID.

Half of the 182 patients took a probiotic containing a proprietary strain of Lactobacillus while the rest received a placebo daily for four weeks.

No surprise, those who took a probiotic were 60 percent less likely to develop COVID symptoms even after exposure to the disease compared to those in the placebo group and were able to protect themselves from contracting COVID for a longer time.

And, probiotic patients had more significant remnants of beneficial bacteria in stool samples taken 70 and 85 days after the initial trial too.

Although the study’s sample size was small (due to the rapid development of vaccines), scientists were very encouraged about the results yet not surprised by them, says Dr. Paul Wischmeyer, co-lead author on the study.

“While limited in sample size, our study lends credence to the notion that our symbiotic microbes can be valuable partners in the fight against COVID-19 and potentially other future pandemic diseases.

So, if you’ve been lax about staying up-to-date on your COVID vaccine schedule — less than 20 percent have received updated vaccines according to the CDC — you may want to consider getting some extra protection by taking a probiotic like EndoMune Advanced Probiotic, formulated with multiple strains of beneficial bacteria and a prebiotic that feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut.

Advisory note

For the most up-to-date advisories on COVID-19, visit the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

Resources

Clinical Nutrition

Duke Health/News and Media

Washington Post

Could Probiotics Protect You From COVID? Read More »

Safe to use Probiotics to help treat type 2 diabetes.

Probiotics: An Effective Treatment For Type 2 Diabetes?

Digestive Health, Disease, Drug interactions, Probiotics / By Staff Writer

Summary: Is it safe and helpful to take a probiotic if you’re coping with type 2 diabetes? This survey of studies gives a thumbs-up to probiotics!

As the epidemic of metabolic syndrome continues in America — thanks to a Western lifestyle that can kill you faster than smoking — the number of Americans dealing with type 2 diabetes is growing by the day.

Among the 38 million Americans who currently suffer from diabetes, roughly 90 percent of them are dealing with type 2 diabetes. (An alarming 22 percent don’t even know they have diabetes at all!)

You can do plenty of things to manage your health if you have type 2 diabetes, from diversifying your diet to include more unprocessed whole foods to finding more time during day to get moving with some form of exercise.

Researchers have also learned so much about how an unbalanced gut microbiome affects many aspects of human health, including how it creates many challenges for type 2 diabetes patients trying to regulate their blood sugar.

If you or a loved one is struggling with managing type 2 diabetes, taking a probiotic should be at the top of your to-do list too, based on a recent review of 33 studies appearing in Nutrients.

Nearly two-thirds of the studies Canadian researchers reviewed reported improvements in at least one measurement related to glycemic levels while taking a probiotic.

In addition, nearly half of those reports cited improvements in lipid levels after taking a probiotic. That’s very important given that elevated levels of LDL lipoproteins can greatly raise one’s risks of cardiovascular diseases.

Also, the benefits of multi-strain probiotics formulated with strains from the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium families really stuck out with 16 studies reporting improvements in at least one glycemic measurement.

This makes sense given that the Bifidobacterium family enhances the production of healthy fatty acids and the digestion of fiber while promoting immune health and the Lactobacillus family assists the protection of the barrier lining the gut.

Finally, probiotics also worked very well with metformin, a go-to drug prescribed for type 2 diabetics, enriching the composition of gut bacteria, decreasing insulin resistance and increasing the abundance of beneficial short chain fatty acids (SCFAs).

While there’s much more research to be done, there’s little doubt that probiotics, especially those formulated with multiple strains of bacteria like EndoMune Advanced Probiotic, can be a boon to the health of type 2 diabetes patients.

Resources

Nutrients

News-Medical.net/Life Sciences

CDC

Mayo Clinic

Medline Plus

Probiotics: An Effective Treatment For Type 2 Diabetes? Read More »

Can Probiotics Improve Your Blood Pressure?

Digestive Health, Disease, Probiotics / By Staff Writer

Summary: Probiotics may be helpful in lowering your blood pressure.

Nearly half of all American adults suffer from high blood pressure/hypertension for a lot of reasons, including consuming more sugar and salt from highly processed foods in their diets than ever before.

There are many ways to treat hypertension/blood pressure from simple lifestyle changes (getting more sleep, eating a less salty diet, incorporating more movement via exercise and maintaining a healthy weight) to taking medicines.

Unfortunately, many people rely solely on medications to help them manage their elevated blood pressure but 20 percent of all patients won’t respond to them at all, even when using multiple drugs.

Recent studies we’ve shared have shown how hypertension and your gut health are linked in very interesting ways with some medication combinations worsening blood pressure symptoms.

So, we weren’t surprised to learn that a multi-species probiotic formulated with strains from the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium families was responsible for lowering blood pressure numbers to normal levels, according to a recent study appearing in mSystems.

Multi-species probiotics for the win!

A team of Chinese researchers tested the benefits of multi-strain probiotics on hypertension in a study with mice fed water mixed with sugar that had elevated their blood pressures to unhealthy levels.

Over 16 weeks, scientists compared blood pressure readings of test animals that received a probiotic containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium lactis to a group of mice that didn’t receive one and a control group fed water without sugar.

(These two strains of beneficial bacteria are among the building block species featured in EndoMune Advanced Probiotic.)

The most interesting finding from the report: Blood pressure levels among mice treated with a multi-strain probiotic were healthy and no different than mice only fed water. Also, scientists identified gut bacteria signatures in probiotic mice that were typical among people with lower pressures.

The results were so positive that this research team is planning a larger clinical trial to discover if these same probiotic benefits hold up for humans.

We expect to hear similar rave reviews for probiotics, given the results of a recent study touting the benefits of prebiotics lowering blood pressure levels among people equal to that of blood pressure medications.

Just another reason that taking a probiotic with multiple strains of beneficial bacteria and a prebiotic like EndoMune can make a world of difference to your health and your gut, the center of your immune system

References

mSystems

American Society For Microbiology

CDC

Mayo Clinic

Can Probiotics Improve Your Blood Pressure? Read More »