Friday, July 31, 2015

I hope you aren't eating this.

This week I've been reflecting on how far I have come.

When I went through my health crisis over 10 years ago, I thought that if I chose foods that were under a certain calorie, fat gram or carbohydrate level, I was going to get fit, lose weight, keep it off, and be healthy.

I was wrong. Following that mentality kept me in a never ending loop of yo-yo dieting.

To keep my body weight down felt like an uphill battle.

It wasn't effortless like it is now.

Our bodies are able to endure so much, but we tax them with ingredients that have been only invented to improve the production of processed foods and not our health. Our bodies suffer as a result and these ingredients cannot only affect our outward appearance but how we feel too.

My body suffered for a long time and I'm so thankful I found a way out… This is why I want to tell you about this ingredient that is in almost everything you see on grocery store shelves and at major restaurants. 

I went to a conventional grocery store near my home to take some pictures for this brand new post, and was really shocked at what I found. As I walked down every aisle looking for this ingredient, I literally blew up my phone with dozens of pictures. It's in freaking everything and there's no safe level to eat! 

Read the brand new post here.

Xo,

Vani

 

P.S. If you know someone who might be eating this ingredient, simply forward this email or share it with them on social media – the more we know about what we are eating the more power we have to take back control of our food and health. Thank you for spreading the word.



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How Unhealthy Is White Flour?

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How Unhealthy Is White Flour?

Published July 30, 2015

white-flour-in-bowl

White flour is common enough that you've probably consumed it at some point in your life. Just because it's common, however, doesn't mean it's good. In fact, it has a number of downsides and negative effects on your health. Take your pick — an overall lack of nutrients, highly-refined carbohydrates, or the gluten.

What is White Flour?

White flour is wheat flour that has been stripped of two main components–the bran and the germ. [1] The bran provides the fiber that is typically found in the whole grain, but when it is taken out of the wheat flour it creates a softer, lighter texture. This is why, if you've ever replaced white flour for whole-wheat flour, the final product is often heavier and denser. That's the fiber and the added weight of the other components missing from white flour. The trouble is, the light and airy texture of the bread is fairly descriptive of its nutritional quality as well–light, airy, and vapid.

The Health Effects of White Flour

Proper nutrition plays an important role in reducing disease risk, especially when it comes to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Even if you’re eating a healthy diet, however, white flour raises your risk for diabetes as well as many other preventable diseases. [2] Research even shows that folic acid, commonly added to white flour to fortify the refined grain, can lead to deleterious effects on breast health. [3] Our bread addiction is what is really driving disease progression in the developed world. One study has shown that even if you’re consuming a healthy diet, eating white flour can influence addictive eating behavior. [4]

White Flour is Heavily Processed

The production of white flour involves stripping away of the most nutritional aspects of the grain: the germ and the bran. It also includes the addition of lost B vitamins and iron, and bleaching it with a chemical bleaching agent to make it appear bright white. The flour itself is devoid of the fiber which aids in passing easily through the large intestine. A person following a diet that regularly includes eating white flour as well as sugar (fructose, primarily), or products made with the ingredients, increases their chances for weight gain, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes. [5]

White Flour May Be Hiding in Your Wheat Bread

Wheat bread is usually touted as a more healthy alternative, but that's little more than marketing speak at work. Most wheat breads contain "wheat" as the first ingredient; however, this term, without the "whole grain" designation preceding it, translates into refined, white flour. The color is typically added coloring to give the guise of whole wheat. Real whole wheat flour includes the terms "whole wheat flour" on both the packaging labeling and the ingredients label.

Go Wheat Free

Instead of trying to find whole wheat or whole-grain wheat, why not simply replace wheat altogether with more nutrient dense gluten-free alternatives? There are a number of alternative grains that don't contain any gluten. And, let's face it, gluten is a big problem and contributes to a lot of current health problems.

Do you avoid eating white flour? Wheat? What have been your experiences? Please let us know in the comments below!

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

References:

  1. Satya S. Jonnalagadda, Lisa Harnack, Rui Hai Liu, et al. Putting the Whole Grain Puzzle Together: Health Benefits Associated with Qhole Grains–Summary of American Society for Nutrition 2010 Satellite Symposium. J Nutr. 2011 May; 141(5): 1011S-1022S.
  2. Sylvia H. Ley, Osama Hamdy, Viswanathan Mohan, Frank B. Hu. Prevention and management of type 2 diabetes: dietary components and nutritional strategies. The Lancet. 2014; 383 (9933): 1999 DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(14)60613-9.
  3. Shaidah Deghan Manshadi, Lisa Ishiguro, Kyoung-Jin Sohn, et al. Folic Acid Supplementation Promotes Mammary Tumor Progression in a Rat Model. PLoS ONE, 2014; 9 (1): e84635. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0084635.
  4. University of Michigan. Want pizza, chocolate, French fries? Highly processed foods linked to addictive eating. ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 20 February 2015.
  5. Faridah Amin and Anwar H. Gilani. Fiber-free white flour with fructose offers a better model of metabolic syndrome. Lipids Health Dis. 2013; 12: 44. doi: 10.1186/1476-511X-12-44.

The post How Unhealthy Is White Flour? appeared first on Dr. Group's Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.

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More from Dr. Group's Blog:

Bifidobacterium bifidum: The Health Benefits of Probiotics
Read This Before Going Gluten-Free
Bifidobacterium breve: The Health Benefits of Probiotics
5 Foods That Destroy Your Immune System
Vegan Diet Dangers — Do They Exist?

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Thursday, July 30, 2015

Bifidobacterium bifidum: The Health Benefits of Probiotics

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Bifidobacterium bifidum: The Health Benefits of Probiotics

Published July 29, 2015

yogurt-and-strawberries-against-wood

There's a lot of confusion out there about what makes a good probiotic, so let's take a closer look at one of the most important around: Bifidobacterium bifidum. This bacterial strain is one of the most popular, commonly added to commercial yogurts and probiotic supplements. Its effectiveness for supporting digestive health could explain its popularity. Let's discuss more about this powerful, beneficial bacteria.

Bifidobacterium bifidum: Health Benefits of Probiotics

After years of bacteria-bashing by the mainstream medical establishment and the push toward excessive use of antibiotics, it can be challenging to understand how bacteria can actually provide benefit. [1] You've probably heard how probiotics aid digestion, and it's true, they do. But, they also do a whole lot more. High levels of good probiotic bacteria in your gut breakdown fiber, coat the inner lining of your intestines, and even stimulate your immune system. [2] Bad bacteria, like C. difficile or E. coli, suppress your immune system, making you more susceptible to illness.

70%-80% of your immune response occurs in your gut, because that's where antibiotics attack most germs and it's where the majority of your immune cells go to fight off germs when you're sick. [3] Probiotic bacteria actually attach to cells of the intestine and protect the physical lining of your intestine against damage from toxins or germs. This keeps toxins and germs out of your blood and prevents them from making you sick or disrupting cellular function. On top of all this, probiotics like B. bifidum also produce important vitamins like B12, biotin, and K2. [4]

Why You Need a Healthy Gut

Unfortunately, today it's tough to keep probiotic levels in your gut stable. Antibiotics, illness, artificial sugar, and pesticides can kill off those friendly gut bacteria and let killer germs like C. diff. take up residence, leading to a common illness called 'antibiotic-associated diarrhea' (AAD). [5] When that happens, you've got trouble. Increasing levels of probiotic bacteria, like through a probiotic supplement, is essential in this case.

Bifidobacterium bifidum: A Strain You Want

When you were born, the B. bifidum strain was already present in your intestines, protecting you from germs. In fact, it made up nearly 95% of your intestinal bacteria! B. bifidum attaches to your intestinal lining and helps digest sugar. It also keeps germs and toxins away from your blood while it stimulates your immune system. Recent research even shows that Bifidobacterium bifidum reduces the incidence of cold and flu. [6]

Antibiotic use drastically decreases B. bifidum population, as does everyday environmental factors. But with so many environmental toxins like pesticides and foods loaded with artificial sugars, adults and children alike need a supplement to maintain the best possible health.

Keep Them Fed, Eat Prebiotics Too

To keep your probiotic levels up, you need to feed them! Microorganisms like B. bifidum feed on fiber, gum arabic, inulin, and other natural sugars found in fruits and vegetables. These are natural prebiotics, and you absolutely need them if you are going to take a probiotic supplement. With FloraTrex™, our newest probiotic supplement containing 18 different beneficial strains of bacteria, we include inulin and gum arabic, two powerful, natural prebiotics.

Here's the Best Probiotic Sources

Without balanced levels of probiotics like B. bifidum, sickness and disease follow. To keep your levels up, eat yogurt, cheese, and other fermented foods regularly. Or, take a high-quality supplement with colonies around 3 billion for B. bifidum and one that uses micro-encapsulation. This process ensures that the probiotics absorb through your stomach and into the intestines for the best result.

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

References:

  1. Blake Rodgers, MD, Kate Kirley, MD, and Anne Mounsey, MD. Prescribing an antibiotic? Pair it with probiotics. J Fam Pract. 2013 Mar; 62(3): 148-150.
  2. Ashraf R, Shah NP. Immune system stimulation by probiotic microorganisms. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2014;54(7):938-56. doi: 10.1080/10408398.2011.619671.
  3. Brandtzaeg P. The mucosal immune system and its integration with the mammary glands. J Pediatr. 2010 Feb;156(2 Suppl):S8-15. doi: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2009.11.014.
  4. LeBlanc JG, Milani C, de Giori GS, et al. Bacteria as vitamin suppliers to their host: a gut microbiota perspective. Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2013 Apr;24(2):160-8. doi: 10.1016/j.copbio.2012.08.005.
  5. Mary Hickson. Probiotics in the prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhoea and Clostridium difficile infection. Therap Adv Gastroenterol. 2011 May; 4(3): 185-197.
  6. Langkamp-Henken, Rowe CC, Ford Al, et al. Bifidobacterium bifidum R0071 results in a greater proportion of healthy days and a lower percentage of academically stressed students reporting a day of cold/flu: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Br J Nutr. 2015 Feb 14;113(3):426-34. doi: 10.1017/S0007114514003997.

The post Bifidobacterium bifidum: The Health Benefits of Probiotics appeared first on Dr. Group's Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.

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Comment on this Article Now!

More from Dr. Group's Blog:

Read This Before Going Gluten-Free
Bifidobacterium breve: The Health Benefits of Probiotics
5 Foods That Destroy Your Immune System
Vegan Diet Dangers — Do They Exist?
New Study: Echinacea as Effective as Tamiflu

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Houston, TX 77018

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Wednesday, July 29, 2015

Read This Before Adopting the Gluten-Free Diet

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Read This Before Adopting the Gluten-Free Diet

Published July 28, 2015

gluten-free-baked-goods

There's very little doubt you've encountered someone who's joined the gluten-free bandwagon, and perhaps you yourself have feverishly ditched this recently-maligned protein. Gluten has been seriously vilified by popular online bloggers, alternative health professionals, and celebrities, prompting a dietary movement that holds big promises but little serious scientific scrutiny. Of the research that is available on the dangers of gluten, we can clearly see that it isn't an essential component of the human diet, nor is it beneficial to gut, brain, or digestive health. [1] But did you know that there may be potential dangers of going gluten free?

What Is Gluten?

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. [2] If you've ever baked your own bread, you have probably seen (and felt) the dough's sticky and elastic consistency. This is gluten. It provides the elasticity to help form and shape dough, and essentially provides a glue-like texture to keep it held together. Gluten has been in the food supply for thousands of years, ever since cultivation of wheat and wheat-like grains became a main facet to the human diet. So, it stands to reason that gluten (and grains, in general) haven't been consumed by humans for very long, if you consider the hundreds of thousands of years we've been around.

Gliadin is one of the components of gluten and represents a class of proteins found in various types of grains. It appears that it's the gliadin that imparts the specific health effects of gluten, especially for celiacs. [3] Glutenins represent the other half of gluten, but it's really the gliadin that we're going to focus on. Gliadin triggers an autoimmune response in celiacs, yet it may also be prompting an allergic response in people who are sensitive. Hidden symptoms of an allergic response to gliadin include skin irritation, watery eyes, depression, weight gain, and digestive upset.

One of the main issues we have with gluten is its difficulty with digestion. It's a hard, tough protein, and it's not exactly helpful for encouraging friendly bacteria in the intestines. If you've read this blog for awhile, you know that the friendly bacteria in your gut is responsible for regulating a healthy digestive and elimination system, and without them, bloating, gas, general digestive upset, thyroid suppression, and even weight gain can result. [4] Gluten also appears to promote swelling in the intestines, particularly for those with celiac disease and gluten intolerance. It turns out that even people with gluten sensitivity can experience issues with gluten, yet their symptoms are typically hidden.

The Dangers of Going Gluten Free

The gluten-free craze has its fair share of critics, evidenced by the many medical "experts" who chime in on the many gluten-free articles in magazines, newspapers, and online news mediums. Many nutrition experts or medical doctors who voice their concerns about the gluten-free diet do so from a backwards–but logical–mentality. Mainly, the concern is that by eliminating wheat–which is fortified with essential nutrients–and swapping it with non-fortified gluten-free starches and grains, the consumer places him or herself at risk for a nutrient deficiency.

Most processed foods that are heavily grain-based, like breads, pastas, crackers, cereals, and breakfast bars, use fortified wheat as the main ingredient. Fortified wheat includes added iron, B vitamins, and sometimes calcium. Critics of the gluten-free diet claim ditching the gluten and replacing it with gluten-free foods, adherents will place themselves at risk for a nutrient deficiency. [5] These claims fail to take into account that a gluten-free diet may translate into a healthier diet, especially if one commits to increasing natural whole foods, the majority of which are gluten free, like vegetables, nuts, and seeds.

Corn starch is one of the most prevalent wheat replacements used in gluten-free goods. Since corn is subsidized, it's relatively inexpensive and readily available. White flour, which is referred to as wheat flour interchangeably, has a soft, light texture that is matched well with starches, which is the main reason it's used heavily in the gluten-free industry. All gluten-free breads and baked goods will use starches like tapioca starch, potato starch, and arrowroot starch. Paleo baked goods, however, will tend to rely on lower carb, unrefined options, like coconut flour and almond flour. These are more nutrient dense; however, they are not commonplace in most products free from gluten.

Glycemic Load of the Gluten-Free Diet

The glycemic scale is a representative list of specific foods and their effects on blood sugar. Rating of the scale attributes specific numerical values from 0 to 100, with 0 representing no blood sugar response and 100 being the maximum blood sugar response (this is usually designated to refined sucrose). Low-glycemic foods are best for blood sugar management and are assigned to most vegetables, small berries, nuts, seeds, meats, and other low-carbohydrate foods. Those foods that rate medium on the glycemic index include many tropical, high-sugar fruits (banana, watermelon, mango, etc.), legumes, and grains. Starches are a bit higher than wheat on the glycemic index, regardless of whether the wheat is whole or refined.

Starches, like tapioca starch, corn starch, and potato starch, are devoid of fiber and have a more severe effect on blood sugar levels in the body compared to whole grains. Most gluten-free breads, pastas, and snacks rely on having a wheat-like consistency and texture, and starches provide a lightness that matches wheat much more so than gluten-free whole grains. These blend of starches in gluten-free products increase the refined carbohydrates and reduce the overall quality from a health standpoint. While some gluten-free products exclusively rely on whole grains, they are far more dense and heavy, and they don't provide a similar alternative to gluten-containing foods.

The Real Issue with the Gluten-Free Diet

The main issue really isn't with the starches, or even the gluten. What's really concerning is that many people are swapping out their processed foods with gluten-free alternatives. So, instead of purchasing conventional chocolate sandwich cookies, they replace them with nearly identical products that are made with gluten-free ingredients. Yes, the gluten is gone and that may provide some benefit; however, if the sugar and refined carbohydrates are still there (as they are with virtually any processed food), any benefit is being overridden by the blood sugar and insulin spike, as well as the internal swelling and irritation these ingredients cause in the body. [6] We simply can't blame gluten in the case of poor health, at least not entirely. This bread addiction, which many people face today, is the main driving force behind insulin resistance and weight gain.

The Best Gluten-Free Lifestyle Choices

One of the best ways to go gluten free is not to replace processed foods with gluten-free mimics, but to consume only fresh, whole foods. All whole foods that don't require cooking are naturally free from gluten. Think about vegetables, fruits, seaweed, nuts, seeds, and even meat (if you go that route). You can still eat grains, but pick the most nutritious varieties. Quinoa is a popular grain-like seed that doesn't contain gluten, and it's also high in all essential amino acids and fiber. Buckwheat, despite the suffix, is actually not related to the wheat plant at all and is a very nutritious gluten-free grain you should include in your diet. Be careful with oats, though, since many can be processed in a facility that also process wheat. Contamination is a serious and real threat to celiacs, so if oats should be eaten, always choose a brand that is certified as gluten free.

The Take Home

A gluten-free diet can be superior to a standard American diet, in both taste and nutrition. The key is using whole foods in your recipes and reducing the amount of grain carbohydrates you're consuming. While grains are by no means unhealthy, they are certainly not the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet. Look for alternative gluten-free grains like quinoa and buckwheat and include plenty of other naturally gluten-free foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds.

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

References:

  1. Jessica R. Jackson, William W. Eaton, Nicola G. Cascella, Alessio Fasano, and Deanna L. Kelly. Neurologic and Psychiatric Manifestations of Celiac Disease and Gluten Sensitivity. Psychiatr Q. 2012 Mar; 83(1): 91-102. doi: 10.1007/s11126-011-9186-y.
  2. McGough N, Cummings JH. Coeliac disease: a diverse clinical syndrome caused by intolerance of wheat, barley and rye. Proc Nutr Soc. 2005 Nov;64(4):434-50.
  3. Howdle PD. Gliadin, glutenin or both? The search for the Holy Grail in coeliac disease. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2006 Jul;18(7):703-6.
  4. Soares FL, de Oliveira Matoso R, Teixeira LG, et al. Gluten-free diet reduces adiposity, inflammation and insulin resistance associated with the induction of PPAR-alpha and PPAR-gamma expression. J Nutr Biochem. 2013 Jun;24(6):1105-11. doi: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2012.08.009.
  5. Holly Strawbridge. Going gluten-free just because Here's what you need to know. Harvard Health Publications. Harvard Medical School.
  6. Juanola-Falgarona M, Salas-Salvado J, Ibarrola-Jurado N, et al. Effect of the glycemic index of the diet on weight loss, modulation of satiety, inflammation, and other metabolic risk factors: a randomized controlled trial. Am J Clin Nutr. 2014 Jul;100(1):27-35. doi: 10.3945/ajcn.113.081216.

The post Read This Before Adopting the Gluten-Free Diet appeared first on Dr. Group's Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.

Join the conversation and voice your opinion!

Comment on this Article Now!

More from Dr. Group's Blog:

Bifidobacterium breve: The Health Benefits of Probiotics
5 Foods That Destroy Your Immune System
Vegan Diet Dangers — Do They Exist?
New Study: Echinacea as Effective as Tamiflu
Want Natural Insulation in Your Home? The 3 Best Options

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Houston, TX 77018

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Tuesday, July 28, 2015

Some people will never learn…

But some people will. Here's your chance...

Over the last four years, the coalition we have built, the Food Babe Army, has had an incredible amount of success and been featured in major media across the globe for getting companies to remove chemicals, go non-GMO and become more transparent.

Together, since we as customers control the income for corporate agribusinesses, they are starting to pay attention.

And while enticing big companies to change is important, I'm even more excited to learn that smart organic companies are now on the general public's radar in places like Walmart, Target and even in airports! The organic food movement is continuing to grow because of our work together.

But we still have work to do–and, as our consumer coalition gains power, fueled by the influence of social media, resistance is starting to dig in against change.

We are up against a behemoth of money that can peddle influence in the darkest of places. Despicable things are happening when it comes to finding out the truth about our food and it's all because of companies grasping to hold on to the profits they are losing.

The companies (and their PR agencies) are upset at this revolution and will do anything to regain back control including deploying shady tactics taken straight-out of the Big Tobacco playbook including targeting moms and women and spreading misinformation and confusion.

As you know, I'm not a scientist or doctor, but thankfully you don't need a degree to take back control of your health.

The power to truly change lies within ourselves.

If you have the passion to research, obtain knowledge (about any topic – not just health) and share it, you can change the world and inspire millions like we have done here.

I want to surround myself with leading experts who are at the forefront of cutting edge health information that aren't fueled by corporate interests or the outdated, small-minded thinking that you need to have a formal degree to change the food system.

This is why I have a trusted list of independent experts & organizations I turn to in my advisory council. They are impassioned to lessen disease, increase access to safe food, fix our broken health care system and empower individuals like you and me.

Unfortunately, there are many hired "experts" backed by corporate interests infiltrating the media that only want you to rely on their knowledge and confuse you about food and health.

They can't hide any longer and thanks to this new report their lingering dirty manipulations are finally being exposed.

Read it here.

Xo,

Vani

P.S. Who are your advisors and who do you trust to help you in achieving great health? I would love to hear from you in the comments. Do you notice your friends or family being swayed by "hired" experts? Tell me your stories. The more we share, the closer we will get to the truth. Thank you for standing with me.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



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Sunday, July 26, 2015

Bifidobacterium breve: The Health Benefits of Probiotics

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Bifidobacterium breve: The Health Benefits of Probiotics

Published July 25, 2015

sauerkraut-on-metal-spoon

The benefits of probiotics are numerous, but did you know different bacterial strains provide different benefits? While all of them are helpful for digestion, not all probiotics are equal. This fact has led to a lot of confusion on the subject. Let's clear up a few questions and take a closer look at one specific probiotic bacterial strain your body depends on: Bifidobacterium breve.

Bifidobacterium breve: The Health Benefits of Probiotics

For people who are addicted to antibacterial soaps and lotions, it can be a difficult task to understand there may be good bacteria out there. The fact of the matter is, there are. When it comes to bacteria, there's an entire world you may not even know about. And as you'll see in just a moment, B. breve is one of them you want to know.

The term "probiotic" means "for life." All the bacterial strains grouped under this term share one thing in common – they work with your body and have positive effects on your health. Think of them as friendly bacteria. Here's two key benefits:

Aid Digestion

These friendly bacteria digest sugars, starches, and carbs into nutrients your body can easily digest, and they also break down fiber. [1] If you have trouble digesting fiber, it may mean you don't have enough probiotic bacteria in your gut. On top of all this, your gut is the gateway all nutrients pass through to get to every cell in your body. When your gut isn't working right, you lose a lot of these nutrients, and the body is at a greater risk for nutritional deficiency.

Supports Immune Health

It turns out probiotics are your first line of defense against invading bacteria like E. coli, C. difficile, and H. pylori. [2] Considering that 80% of your immune cells are in the gut, it makes sense that probiotics protect the immune response. Probiotics line the surface of your intestines, preventing germs from attacking you and making you sick. And some, like B. breve, even inhibit them from doing anything other than pass through (and out) your digestive tract.

But this doesn't come close to all of the benefits of probiotics. Scientists also report people who have balanced probiotic levels:

  • Are less likely to become depressed. [3]
  • Focus and concentrate more easily.
  • Have fewer blood sugar spikes and instances of high blood sugar. [4]
  • Enjoy healthy, strong bones. [5]
  • Experience fewer allergies. [6]
  • Have better overall heart and vascular health.

And many people report the easing up of skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne after taking probiotics. It's unlikely to know whether or not probiotics actually affect skin health directly, but many dermatologists prescribe it when administering antibiotics–a whole other story in itself.

Not All Probiotics Are Equal

Mainstream food manufacturers want you to think all probiotics are the same, but nothing could be further from the truth. Probiotic bacteria differ from one species to another. Some specialize in immune support, some produce vitamins, and some breakdown different types of sugars and fiber.

There's even difference between the strains of the same species. To help add clarity, scientists have added strain identifiers to the end of the name. So you might see L. acidophilus labeled with DDS-1, or B. infantis 36624. Some probiotic strains are little powerhouses. Often, these are bacteria you have when you're born and diminish as you age due to exposure to germs, antibiotics, pesticides, and foods loaded with artificial sugars like HFCS.

Bifidobacterium breve: A Strain You Want

This powerhouse probiotic bacteria plays a key role in your health. B. breve also protects colon function, alleviates constipation, and reduces gas, bloating, and diarrhea. Additionally, it stimulates your immune system, inhibits E. coli, and suppresses the fungus Candida. While there's always a big focus on the positive effect of probiotics on digestion, B. breve has proven effective in reducing oral candida in the elderly. [7] This helps prevent the spread of candida to other areas of the body, like the gut. Researchers speculate that many cases of Irritable Bowel Disease may be a result of a Candida infestation. [8]

Get Your Prebiotics

Organisms like B. breve use fiber, inulin, and natural sugars that you find in fruits and vegetables as food, or prebiotics. Prebiotics feed your probiotic bacteria, keeping them hearty and robust. Simply increasing your fiber intake through whole plant foods can be helpful. Supplementation with inulin or gum acacia can also be extremely helpful for supporting B. breve population.

Your Best Source for Probiotics

Kombucha, water kefir, and raw sauerkraut are excellent food sources of probiotics. Supplements are another way to get the probiotics you need. But make sure it's a high-quality supplement. For B. breve, it should have CFUs (colony forming units) around 3 billion, and your supplement should use microencapsulation to make sure these friendly bacteria survive digestion so you get the best result.

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

References:

  1. Balakrishnan M, Floch MH. Prebiotics, probiotics and digestive health. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2012 Nov;15(6):580-5. doi: 10.1097/MCO.0b013e328359684f.
  2. Mondel M, Schroeder BO, Zimmermann K, et al. Probiotic E. coli treatment mediates antimicrobial human beta-defensin synthesis and fecal excretion in humans. Mucosal Immunol. 2009 Mar;2(2):166-72. doi: 10.1038/mi.2008.77.
  3. Mohammadi AA, Jazayeri S, Khosravi-Darani K, et al. The effects of probiotics on mental health and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in petrochemical workers. Nutr Neurosci. 2015 Apr 16.
  4. Al-Salami H, Butt G, Fawcett JP, et al. Probiotic treatment reduces blood glucose levels and increases systemic absorption of gliclazide in diabetic rats. Eur J Drug Metab Pharmacokinet. 2008 Apr-Jun;33(2):101-6.
  5. Kolsoom Parvaneh, Rosita Jamaluddin, Golgis Karimi, and Reza Erfani. Effect of Probiotics Supplementation on Bone Mineral Content and Bone Mass Density. ScientificWorldJournal. 2014; 2014: 595962. doi: 10.1155/2014/595962.
  6. Gui Yang, Zhi-Qiang Liu, and Ping-Chang Yang. Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis with Probiotics: An Alternative Approach. N Am J Med Sci. 2013 Aug; 5(8): 465-468. doi: 10.4103/1947-2714.117299.
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The post Bifidobacterium breve: The Health Benefits of Probiotics appeared first on Dr. Group's Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.

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