Good news! Coffee and wine may promote a healthy gut

The food you eat and the medicines you take can alter your gut bacteria in ways that either help or harm your digestive health, two new studies suggest.

Diversity is beneficial

Foods like fruits, vegetables, coffee, tea, wine, yogurt and buttermilk can increase the diversity of bacteria in a person’s intestines. And that diversity can help ward off illness, said Dr Jingyuan Fu, senior author of one of the studies.

“It is believed that higher diversity and richness [in gut bacteria] is beneficial,” explained Fu. She is an associate professor of genetics at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands.

Read: Gut bacteria suffer when hit with infection

On the other hand, foods containing loads of simple carbohydrates appear to reduce bacterial diversity in the gut, Fu and colleagues found. These include high-fat whole milk and sugar-sweetened soda.

In addition, medications can also play a part in the makeup of your gut bacteria. Antibiotics, the diabetes drug metformin and antacids can cut down on gut bacterial diversity, the researchers found. Smoking and heart attacks also can have a negative effect, the team said.

Each person’s intestines contain trillions of microorganisms, which doctors refer to as the “gut microbiome”, said Dr David Johnson. He is chief of gastroenterology at Eastern Virginia Medical School in Norfolk, Virginia, and a past president of the American College of Gastroenterology.

A dramatic and prominent role

The gut microbiome plays an essential but little-understood role in human health, said Johnson, who was not involved with the new studies.

Read: Gut bacteria may be key to gastric bypass’ effects: study

“It’s the largest immune system in the body,” Johnson explained. “These bacteria have a very dramatic and prominent role in determining health and disease.”

To study the effect of lifestyle on the gut microbiome, Fu and her colleagues collected stool samples from more than 1,100 people living in the northern Netherlands.

The samples were used to analyse the DNA of the bacteria and other organisms that live in the gut. In addition to stools, the study collected information on the participants’ diets, medicine use and health.

In the second study, researchers with the Flemish Gut Flora Project performed a similar analysis on stool samples taken from 5,000 volunteers in Belgium.

Both studies concluded that diet has a profound effect on the diversity of gut bacteria, although, Fu said, the “underlying theories of these dietary factors remain largely unknown”.

Read: Gas and diet

Johnson added that medicines can have the same effect, and antibiotics actually can kill off some important strains of gut bacteria. “One dose of an antibiotic may disrupt your gut bacteria for a year,” he said.

Both sets of researchers emphasised that their studies only help explain a fraction of gut bacteria variation – roughly 18 percent for the Netherlands study, and about 7 percent for the Flemish study.

High fibre and low carbs

However, the findings from the two groups overlapped about 80 percent of the time, indicating that they are on the right track, the researchers said.

The Belgian researchers estimated that over 40,000 human samples will be needed to capture a complete picture of gut bacteria diversity.

Read: Gut bacteria affect health and obesity

Johnson noted that other research has shown that poor sleep, obesity, diabetes and the use of artificial sweeteners also can interfere with gut bacteria.

“The general rule is a balanced diet with high fibre and low carbs tends to drive a better gut health overall,” he said.

According to Fu, once researchers have a clearer understanding of the gut microbiome and its effects on health, doctors could be able to help prevent or heal illness by reading or influencing the bacteria within people’s bodies.

“The personalized microbiome may assist in personalised nutrition, personalised medicine, disease risk stratification and treatment decision-making,” she said.

Both studies were published in the journal Science.

Read more:

Symptoms of digestive disorders

Diagnosing digestive disorders

Preventing digestive disorders

Copyright © 2015 HealthDay. All rights reserved.

Good news! Coffee and wine may promote a healthy gut

Kim Kardashian Is Being Accused Of Faking Her Weight Loss

Kim Kardashian is NOT happy with people’s comments about her body.

The 35-year-old has been working hard on her health and fitness game since giving birth to Saint West back in December, following a strict Atkins diet and upping her exercise regime in a big way.

Read: Kim Kardashian Says Her Bum Isn’t As Big As People Think…

And she’s been showing off the results over the past week, slipping back into her signature bodycon frocks and flaunting her curves again, Kimmy K-style, after months of covering up.

In fact, Kim let all her fans know that she’s only four pounds off her ‘pre-baby weight target’, by posting a snap of her standing on a set of scales reading 139.6 pounds.

‘YOU GUYS!!!! PRE BABY WEIGHT WAS 135!!!!!’ the Keeping Up With The Kardashians star captioned the snap.

‘This time I think weight has come off quicker than last time because I kind of learned how to eat better’, Kim told reporters. ‘Last time I worked out a little bit harder. This time I’m eating differently.’

However, when sister Khloe posted a photo of Kim looking bangin’ to her Instagram over the weekend, calling her the ‘snap back queen’, a cruel comment led Kim to hit back. 

Read: Kim Kardashian On Why She Stopped Breasfteeding…

‘Lipo/tummy tuck duh! Post videos working out as if she did all the work lol’, the person wrote. And Kim didn’t take it lying down.

‘You miserable troll!’ Kim wrote back. ‘I work my ass off and have been dieting for months! I have such pride in my post pregnancy weight loss game… 50 pounds down as of today and 20 more to go!’

‘Just wait for my next nude shoot, you’ll see no tummy tuck/lipo scars! Let’s see your body hiding behind your private account!’

The comment was later deleted, but not before Instagram account @theshaderoominc captured the drama.

Kim Kardashian Is Being Accused Of Faking Her Weight Loss

Young Gay and Bisexual Men are 6 Times More Likely to Commit Suicide

A study published in the Journal of Public Health reveals that gay and bisexual men below the age of 26 are six times more likely to commit suicide or harm themselves than older men. The researchers explain that unlike younger men, men above 45 are more capable of coping with homophobia and could possibly be more privileged in other aspects of their lives.

Moreover, young gay and bisexual men are also two times more likely to be depressed or anxious. Meanwhile, black gay and bisexual men are also twice as likely to be depressed and five times more likely to commit suicide compared to white men.

Men with lower educational backgrounds are also two times more likely to suffer from the same problems due to lower income. On the other hand, men who received higher education are less likely to experience one of these issues.

Gay couple. Credit: Tumblr

The researchers point out that some of these men may also suffer from discrimination unrelated to their sexuality, which adds to the report. Nevertheless, their study shows that mental health problems are rampant among gay and bisexual youths as well as minorities.

“Poor mental health is not evenly distributed across race, income or education,” says lead author Ford Hickson from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. “We must ensure that access to life-changing support services are targeted to where they are needed most. Everyone has the right to good mental health.”

The research team suggests that cohabitation can improve these problems. They say that gay and bisexual men who live with a partner are 50 percent less likely to experience depression than those who live alone. Living in areas with high population of gay and bisexual men such as London could also result in positive mental health because these men are less isolated and less discriminated.

The study is the first one to investigate the differences in mental health among gay and bisexual men. It involved the data analysis of 5,799 gay and bisexual men, ages 16 and above, from the Stonewall Gay and Bisexual Men’s Health Survey conducted in the UK.

April Guasp, the Head of Research at Stonewall, adds that the study provides more data about the risks of poor mental health within the LGBT communities. Guasp hopes that this would lead to targeted treatments.

Young Gay and Bisexual Men are 6 Times More Likely to Commit Suicide

The Economics Of Menstruation: By The Numbers

Menstruation is having a moment—due mostly to a hard-fought series of efforts by women to not only de-stigmatize periods, but also their attendant products. Perhaps more importantly, they’re pushing governments stop taxing them, and to understand the need for tampons and pads are necessary items that, like toilet paper, should be widely available and freely provided in school bathrooms, jails, and shelters.

Menstruation may be as old as our existence, but menstrual equality is not. Periods have long been a source of secret shame, and beside that shame runs a parallel history of poorly designed products that have taken decades to evolve toward the lifestyles of the women using them. And still today, in many countries, having no access to sanitary protection keeps girls out of schools.

This year, YouTube star Ingrid Nilsen got the opportunity to interview Barack Obama She used the time to ask him about why tampons and pads—something crucial to women managing their health in their everyday lives— are considered a luxury good, and why 40 states still tax them.

“I have to tell you, I have no idea why states would tax these as luxury items,” Obama answered. “I suspect it’s because men were making the laws when those taxes were passed.”

The latest issue of Newsweek devotes its cover story to a deep history of menstrual mayhem, declaring that the fight to end period shaming has finally gone mainstream. This, combined with recent looks at the economics of menstruation and the legal fights in a slew of states to make tampons tax-free and more widely available all point to a seismic shift in our ability to finally start talking, and doing something, about periods.

Here’s the issue by the numbers.

On average, American girls start their periods between age 12 and 13, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. They have a period that hits once a month and runs for about seven days, until they hit menopause (which often arrives after the age of 50). This amounts to some 450 ovulations in a lifetime, more than our prehistoric sisters, who might have ovulated about 160 times a lifetime.

The formula is simple: 3-6 tampons/day x 7 days/month x 12 months/year x 40 years. Estimating the cost of tampons at $5 to $7 a box, the price for sanitary products averages to some $1800 over a lifetime according to one calculation. That’s not including pads, too, which some women alternate or use in conjunction with tampons, and could tack on another $500. Of course, this is all highly variable depending on period flow and the length of a period, but it offers a general idea.

Period care is a big market according to Euromonitor, and its products are taxed in most states. Meanwhile, Newsweek notes, “adult diapers, Viagra, Rogaine and potato chips are not.”

Even FEMA—the Federal Emergency Management Agency—resisted using homelessness funds to cover sanitary protection, though they covered underwear. That will change this year thanks to the efforts of New York Representative Grace Meng, who convinced the Homeland Security secretary to change the policy to include them.

In most states, purchasing pads and tampons means paying tax on these items, which are classified as a “luxury,” ironic given that women can’t just ignore their body, or simply wish away their periods—at least, not without spending more money to do so by taking the pill or using some other period-reducing aid or device. Rep. Meng and other state politicians are at the forefront to change that policy in New York, where the State Assembly has passed a bill to eliminate the tax on tampons and pads. The language of the deal is being sorted out before going to Governor Cuomo to sign.

Prior to this latest surge of advocacy, five women filed a class action lawsuit against the state to end the tampon tax, saying classifying tampons and pads as luxuries violated the state’s equal protection clause. They say only items used by women, like lip balm and tampons are taxed as general merchandise, while Rogaine is not. They also argue that lower-income women are most burdened by the tax, as you can’t buy tampons or pads with food stamps. Homeless women must rely entirely on donations to access sanitary care.

Currently, only Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey and Pennsylvania have eliminated the taxes from sanitary protection. Some 12 states have some sort of tampon tax legislation in the works to eliminate the tax, based on the notion that they are finally coming around to see that taxing a necessity for women amounts to gender discrimination. Canada removed the sales tax on tampons this past summer.

American women are relatively lucky compared to some countries overseas, where globally, some 500 million girls and women lack the proper scenario for period management, according to UNICEF and the World Health Organization. In rural India, one in five girls is likely to drop out of school as a result of the shame and stigma periods cause in places where there is no access to sanitary protection or a proper means of disposal, further deepening the stigma.

An international survey by a period tracker app called Clue discovered that in most countries, euphemisms for periods are used far more often than the word period or menstruation, illustrating how difficult it is to even discuss something so fraught with shame. But advocates for untaxing tampons say changing this attitude is critical to the shift in thinking and perception.

Drives to donate free tampons and pads to those in need are currently thriving, while period subscription boxes and delivery services are also changing the conversation. After the success of HelloFlo’s commercial celebrating menstruation with a period party, company founder Naama Bloom said she pivoted her company into a more informational women’s health company, now putting resources into helping answer questions that go beyond periods. Rather, it encompasses everything women don’t discuss about their health, she told Fast Company. “People don’t talk openly about [women’s health], but I had a different approach—and it resonated.”

All of this means that something women have long dreaded is now something they can, at least a little, discuss—and hopefully buy or get their hands on for free—without embarrassment.

The Economics Of Menstruation: By The Numbers

Health Digest for: April 26, 2016

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Immunizations: Stop sickness before it starts

Immunization is one of the best ways you can protect yourself and your children against infectious disease. By stimulating your body’s natural resistance to disease — thereby creating immunity — vaccines are your first line of defense against the likes of polio, measles, mumps, rubella, influenza, tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis.

“Were it not for the widespread use of vaccines in the U.S., a far greater number of deaths would occur during childhood and many more people would be living with chronic and often crippling after effects of disease,” says Mayo Clinic Health System pediatrician Joel Cassingham, M.D.

The immediate result of immunization is the prevention of dangerous, potentially life-threatening infectious illnesses. The long-term goal of an immunization program is the complete eradication of a disease. Smallpox, a devastating illness that killed 30 percent of those infected and left the others with disfiguring scars, was completely eradicated through immunization in 1979. Measles cases in the U.S. have dropped by 98 percent, and diphtheria, a condition that caused more than 15,000 deaths in 1921, now is only reported in two or three cases every year because of immunization.

Every vaccine is tested and must meet strict safety standards set by the Food and Drug Administration. This can take up to 10 years and even after being opened to the public, every immunization is monitored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

— Mayo Clinic News Network (TNS) 

Spinal manipulation techniques differ among practitioners

Chiropractors commonly perform spinal adjustments, also known as spinal manipulation, but osteopathic doctors, physical therapists and medical doctors may provide the service, as well.

Specific techniques may differ, but in general, during spinal manipulation, the practitioner applies a controlled amount of force to a spinal joint, either manually or using a device. Alternatively, a rhythmic force is applied to improve joint motion in your neck, spine and pelvis. The practitioner may use a special table to help perform adjustments.

Evidence indicates that spinal manipulation can help with common headaches, neck pain, and low back pain, especially if the pain is recent and not due to compression of a nerve root.

Spinal manipulation generally is considered to be safe when it’s performed by a trained and licensed practitioner. Common side effects are soreness in the treated area, dizziness or tiredness, which typically clears up within a day or two. Serious side effects are very rare, but may include pinching of spinal nerves, resulting in leg pain and weakness or worsening of a herniated disk. High-velocity neck manipulation rarely has been associated with stroke.

Spinal manipulation generally isn’t recommended if you have severe osteoporosis, cancer in your spine, previous spinal surgery or inflammatory arthritis.

If you’re considering spinal manipulation therapy, ask your doctor for a referral. Importantly, let the provider doing the spinal manipulation know about any other conditions you may have and other treatments you may be receiving. 

— Mayo Clinic News Network (TNS) 

Upcoming presentations on brain health

Dr. Sayed Shah will review highlights of Dr. James Greenblatt’s webinar, “Introduction to Integrative Medicine for Mental Health,” at 6 p.m. May 11 at Western Illinois University Riverfront Campus, 3300 River Drive. 

Dr. Shah will address the role of digestive health in brain and mental health. 

Registration will begin at 5:30 p.m. in a meeting room in the eastern most building on campus, with lectures beginning at 6 p.m. Park on the east, north and west ends of the campus, accessed by walking through the center of campus.

To RSVP, text 309-737-2022 or email ci3752@yahoo.com by May 7. 

Health Digest for: April 26, 2016

Decoded: How Anant Ambani lost 108 kg in 18 months (Watch Video)

New Delhi: The youngest son of Mukesh Ambani and Neeta Ambani – Anant Ambani made it to headlines after he lost a staggering 108 kilograms in less than 18 months.

It’s easy for people to think that Anant, being the son of India’s richest man, might have undergone surgery to shed the extra kilos. But the truth is a contrast.

Anant was determined to lose the weight in the most natural and safest way possible. And it feels proud to say that he has emerged victorious.

It’s not at all easy to drive yourself for such massive weight loss process. It’s would not be an exaggeration to say that this guy has given his blood and sweat to achieve the perfect body.

But how he did that is the very first question that pops up in anyone’s mind who will take a look at his impressive transformation. No doubt, his story is an inspiration and everyone should know how he really did it.

Here’s decoding Anant Ambani’s weight loss formula:

1. Regular Meals

Taking regular meals is the base of such weight loss program. Eating every three hours or six meals a day increases your metabolism which will burn your body fat real fast. One should not follow crash diet for losing weight.

2. Natural Way

There is no shortcut for this weight loss program. It is his hard work of 18 months which bore fruits. He exercised for 4 to 5 hours every day- 2 hours each in morning, afternoon and evening.

3. Not money

You cannot buy health with money. The staggering weight loss by Anant is not the result of spending too much money. He has done it through hard work, consistency, focus and determination.

4. Truth of 40 kg weight loss in 1st month

Anant lost 40 kilograms in first month of weight loss schedule due to sudden change in food intake, change in lifestyle, and exercise.

Initially, the body burns fat very fast when you change the diet.

When you cut eating carbs, the body starts flushing out fluids which are stored in your body due to intake of excessive sodium and carbohydrates. The weight loss in the first month can’t remain steady in the second and third month.

To know more about Anant Ambani’s weight loss program watch the video:

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Decoded: How Anant Ambani lost 108 kg in 18 months (Watch Video)

How fit are you? Most healthy names of British men and women revealed

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FIT: Apparently names have an influence on the way we live our life

Men named James and women called Laura are the fittest Britons, the findings suggests.

Studies show the average Laura visits the gym 26% more than her closest rival each week, she does at least two high intensity sessions and spends an average of 2.5 hours per visit.

A typical Laura is also likely to be in the gym at quiet times such as a Sunday evening and has even been known to workout on Christmas Eve.

And the average James will be in the gym on a Friday night with his total visits averaging 24% more per week than his closest rival.

Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics

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JOY: Laura Trott celebrates on the medal podium after winning the Women’s Omnium

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SUCCESSFUL: Laura Trott and James Guy have impressed in sport

“Our parents get a chance to be ‘creative’ when they give us our names”

Psychologist Donna Dawson

Gym chain Fitness First analysed five years of membership data to find out if there was a link between first names and health.

And Lauras and James’ workout the most and are more efficient with their time compared to any other name.

But Larrys only attend the gym during the typical seasonal peaks — January and September — then stay away for the other 10 months of the year, the data shows.

Michaels are the least efficient with their time as, though each of their sessions last on average 90 minutes, they actually spent 45% of time training and the rest socialising.

Laura Trott OBE, 24, is the reigning Olympic and European champion in track and road cycling.

Swimmer James Guy, 20, has represented Great Britain in the European swimming championships.

Psychologist Donna Dawson, who specialises in personality and behaviour, said names may well have an influence on the way we live our life, including our health and fitness.

She added: “Our parents get a chance to be ‘creative’ when they give us our names.”

GETTY

DELIGHT: James Guy won the Men’s 200m Freestyle at The British Swimming Championships

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EXERCISE: The research shows woman called Laura are keen on hitting the gym

She continued: “Apart from family names handed down and fashionable naming trends, our parent’s name-choice will most likely be influenced by the inspiring people living around them at that time.

“When we see namesakes like Laura Trott and James Guy succeed in their respective fields, we can’t help but be consciously and subconsciously influenced by the examples that they set.”

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How fit are you? Most healthy names of British men and women revealed