by GMFH Editing Team
Scientists have long been debating whether gut colonization by microorganisms starts during pregnancy or at birth. Dr. Hervé Blottière updates us on what current studies say about when bacteria first colonize the body and the impact of that process on infant health.
by Manon Oliero
Rural living, vaginal delivery, pet ownership, eating a wide variety of foods, low antibiotic use, and breast milk microbiota can prevent your children from developing a respiratory or food allergy. But what if differences in the gut microbiota could predict which children will grow out of their allergies?
by Andreu Prados
Emerging evidence about COVID-19 associates the gut-lung connection with the long-term complications of the virus. This article updates what we know so far about how manipulating the gut microbiota plays a role in improving respiratory outcomes and, in particular, the symptoms and severity of COVID-19.
by Andreu Prados
Food is a source of immune-supporting nutrients and non-nutrients that offer a good defense against pathogens. Diet quality is not only important at the moment for protecting against severe COVID-19 but also for improving COVID-19 vaccine efficacy, particularly in certain groups of at-risk individuals.
Assumed for a long-time immune system training started after birth, when mom’s microbiota started colonizing the newborn, Yale University scientists point out that process may have begun much earlier, in utero.
This year’s research has brought to light many interesting advances in the field of gut health and has unveiled some of the microbiota’s secrets. We have discussed the impact of diet, immunity, fermented foods, the characteristics of gut health, and of course we also covered COVID-19. So, can you guess what GMFH’s 10 most popular articles of 2020 were?
by Andreu Prados
Good nutrition is important to support the immune system through shaping the balance of the gut microbiota. Learn more on how nutrition and having a healthy lifestyle can support the immune system particularly with regards to protection against COVID-19.
This infographic lets you find out more about Lactobacillus, one of gut microbiota’s main microorganisms, along with information on how it functions and in which foods it is present.
Scientists have started to investigate the role gut microbiota might play in either protecting against COVID-19 or on the contrary in increasing vulnerability to severe symptomatic disease. Any conclusions would be highly relevant to preventing increased mortality among elderly nursing home residents.
COVID-19 has led to renewed interest in how to support immunity and the role of food in ensuring the immune system is ready to react. Taking care of your immune system is not only important during a pandemic, but also for every stage of life (Part 2).
