by Mónica Quinzo
The definition of a prebiotic has evolved from a focus on colonic fiber to a complex ecological strategy. This article traces the concept's 30-year journey, highlighting the shift from non-digestible carbohydrates to the latest expert recommendations.
by Andreu Prados
Many patients with IBS find that wheat or gluten triggers gastrointestinal symptoms, prompting them to exclude these foods from their diets. A new study highlights how patients’ expectations and beliefs shape symptom modulation and dietary choices in IBS.
Prebiotics have been widely researched in the context of gastrointestinal conditions and might hold potential to influence cognition outcomes by modulating the microbiota-gut-brain axis. A new randomised controlled trial in individuals aged over 60s showed that a prebiotic blend (inulin and fructo-oligosaccharides) is well tolerated and may improve cognition compared with a placebo.
by Andreu Prados
Diet can impact the efficacy of prebiotics and probiotics. A new perspective article in Nature Microbiology makes 10 recommendations for designing, conducting, and reporting clinical trials of prebiotics and probiotics that support best practices in microbiome research.
Carbohydrate malabsorption is an underlying cause of irritable bowel syndrome-type symptoms in some patients. This article explores the impact of fermentable short-chain carbohydrates (FODMAPs) on gut function, the benefits and risks of a low-FODMAP diet, and how probiotics can help individuals with carbohydrate malabsorption.
Alterations in the gut microbiome composition and functions are emerging as a potential target for managing IBS. Discover how microbiota-modifying treatments, including prebiotics, probiotics, antibiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, hold promise in alleviating symptoms of this vexing condition.
Dietary fibers, known to regulate intestinal inflammation and gut barrier functions, have been avoided by patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) to avoid flare-ups. However, recent findings suggest that if fiber type, patient immunological condition, and the fermentative ability of the gut microbiota are taken into account, they could be beneficial and prevent relapses.
by GMFH Editing Team
Significant strides have been made in our comprehension of the role of the gut microbiome in health and disease throughout the year 2022. We invite you to take a closer look at the "2022 Year at a Glance" report and learn about the groundbreaking discoveries made.
by Andreu Prados
A wide range of diseases, from irritable bowel syndrome to depression, have been associated with increased intestinal permeability or ‘leaky gut’. What does a leaky gut mean, how can it be diagnosed and what available dietary strategies work for managing it?
by Andreu Prados
The gut-brain connection is largely shaped by the composition and function of gut-dwelling microbial communities. This review article addresses how the brain and gut communicate and considers potential psychobiotic therapies.
