Category Archives: Food Supplements

Supplements can be a great way to get more of a necessary nutrient in your daily routine. However, they can be expensive and take not only a toll on your wallet but sometimes on your body as well.

"Supplements are just that, supplements, to an otherwise balanced diet. They should not be relied upon to avoid or ignore healthy eating patterns. Getting these nutrients in from food is always a better alternative, but this isn't necessarily possible for everyone," says Trista Best, MPH, RD, LD a registered dietitian at Balance One Supplements.

Not only that but many popular supplements on the market aren't proven to be effective. So unless your doctor or dietitian has suggested it, you may be wasting your money.

To get to the bottom of these supplements, we asked some experts about the supplements they'd never buy again. Read on, and for more healthy eating tips check outBest Supplements to Take Every Day, According to a Dietitian.

Read the original article on Eat This, Not That!

"I would never spend money on a biotin supplement, specifically one marketed for hair, nails, and skin. Although biotin deficiency is known to cause symptoms like dry, thinning hair, biotin deficiency is very rare and the recommended daily intake of biotin is one that can be easily achieved with our diet with the inclusion of foods like eggs, seeds, and nuts. And according to Consumer Lab, in people who are not deficient, the evidence currently does not support the use of biotin supplements for improvements in thinning hair," says Rachel Fine, RDN and founder of To The Pointe Nutrition.6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

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"Many people take melatonin, so I decided to give it a shot to possibly support my sleep. I did sleep well, but the next day I was incredibly groggy. I am usually a good sleeper anyway, so the melatonin actually did more harm than good for me," says Lauren Manaker, MS, RDN, author of The First Time Mom's Pregnancy Cookbook and Fueling Male Fertility.

RELATED:The 5 Ugly Side Effects of Taking Melatonin Before Bed

"I used to take vitamin C supplements during cold and flu season to help support my immune health. Once I learned that one kiwi provides almost 100% of the recommended intake of this nutrient, I stopped spending my money on the pills and started sticking to the yummy fruit instead. Eating kiwis also fuels my body with fiber and other nutrients, giving me even more bang for my buck," says Manaker.

RELATED:Surprising Effects of Eating Kiwi, Says Dietitian

"While vitamin E is an antioxidant associated with health, it doesn't mean that more is better. Vitamin E protects the vascular cells and is thought to be good for the heart, making these supplements popular. However, supplements do not seem to provide added value. Rather than taking a supplement, I suggest eating nuts, seeds, and vegetable oil, which are all naturally rich in vitamin E," says Lisa Young, PhD, RDN, author ofFinally Full, Finally Slim and member of our medical expert advisory board.

"Belly fat tea is the thing I'd never try or buy again. I am generally not into supplements, and I can't recall the exact brand, but in college, I saw it somewhere and I just couldn't resist the marketing. Could I really have a flatter stomach by drinking this non-FDA-approved tea concoction? The short answer is, nope," says Justine Goodman, Editor-in-Chief of Eat This, Not That!

RELATED: These Supplements Could Be Taking a Toll on Your Health, New Study Finds

"Many fish oil supplements go rancid fairly quickly, rendering them inflammatory instead of anti-inflammatory. They can also have undesirable side effects like fishy burps and do not always offer the health benefits touted. Overall, most people take fish oil without guidance from their doctors, and are trying to improve their health without changing their overall diet quality.I'd much rather see people spend that $50 or more per month on improving their diet quality with more whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, fruits, and vegetables," says Dana Ellis Hunnes, PhD, MPH, RD a registered dietitian and author of Recipe for Survival.

"I wouldn't use cinnamon, which is a popular supplement right now. Some poor-quality evidence has hinted cinnamon can assist with blood sugar management, but this evidence is not scientifically sound and difficult to reproduce in reality. Cinnamon as a supplement is a waste of money," says Morgyn Clair, MS, RDN, author at Fit Healthy Momma.

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7 Supplements We Would Never Spend Money on Again Eat This Not That - Eat This, Not That

New York, July 25, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Probiotics in Food, Beverages, Dietary Supplements and Animal Feed" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p05835682/?utm_source=GNW

The genus segment of the global probiotics market is further segmented into Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Streptococcus, Bacillus and others.Based on the application, the market is segmented into food and beverages, dietary supplements, animal feed and others.

The global probiotics market based on end use is segmented into probiotics for humans and probiotics for animals.Based on function, global probiotics market is segmented into regular probiotics and therapeutic probiotics.

Based on sales channels, the market is segmented into hypermarkets and supermarkets, specialty stores, pharmacies, online and others.

The report will include the COVID-19 impact analysis on the probiotics market at a global level. The impact analysis will consist of the impact on demand, supply and prices.

The market size and estimations are provided in terms of value (USD millions), considering 2021 as a base year, and a market forecast will be provided from 2022 to 2027.Regional market size with respect to the application will be provided.

COVID-19s impact will be considered while the marketing estimation.

The report includes an analysis of major players across each regional probiotics market.The report explains the major drivers and regional dynamics of the global probiotics market and current trends within the industry.

The report focuses on the vendor landscape and includes detailed profiles of the major vendors in the market.Major companies in the global probiotics market include Chr.

Hansen Inc., Nestle Inc., Danone Inc., Probi AB Inc., Meiji Holdings Co. Ltd., Yakult Honsha Co. Ltd. and Morinaga Milk Industry Co. Ltd.

Report Includes:- 280 data tables and 66 additional tables- An up-to-date overview of the global market for probiotics in food and beverages, dietary supplements, and animal feed applications- Analyses of the global market trends, with sales data for 2021, estimates for 2022, and projections of compound annual growth rates (CAGRs) through 2027- Evaluation and forecast the market size for probiotics, projected growth trends, and corresponding market share analysis by type, genus, function, application, end use (human/animals), sales channel, and region- Updated information on market opportunities and drivers, key shifts, regulations and industry specific challenges, and other factors that will shape this market demand in the coming years (2022-2027)- Highlights of the impact of COVID-19 on the global probiotics market, along with its implications on demand and supply of probiotics, price impact, and various government strategic decisions- Discussion of the importance of scientific research, product innovation, consumer awareness and preferences, and regulatory requirements for probiotics- Review of patent data and new developments regarding various categories and sub-categories of probiotics- Key merger and acquisition deals, partnerships, collaborations and joint ventures as well as other strategic alliances within the food and beverages industry- Market share analysis of the key market participants offering probiotic-enhanced products, their research priorities, product portfolios and the competitive landscape- Descriptive company profiles of the leading global players, including Abbott, Chr. Hansen Inc., DSM, Kerry, Meiji Holdings Co. Ltd., Nestle Inc. and Wallaby Yogurt Co.

Summary:The word probiotics derived from Latin word pro, which means for, and Greek word bios, which means life.The term first used in 1965 by Lilly & Stillwell.

FAO and WHO joint working group defined probiotics as live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host. Probiotics are friendly bacteria that balance the gut flora. The growing awareness of the benefits of healthy bacteria for both humans and animals has driven the demand for probiotics over the years. Additionally, the increasing demand for functional foods and dietary supplements is driving the growth of the global probiotics market.

Probiotics are consumed to ensure bacterial balance in the body.Probiotics are consumed via dietary supplements for the prevention of constipation, diarrhea and other infections.

Probiotics are used to produce feed for poultry, cattle, swine and pets.Probiotics boost the overall health and productivity of animals.

Commercial animal production is driving the consumption of animal feed, which is expected to drive the probiotics market during the forecast period.

Based on the genus of the probiotic, the global market of probiotics can be categorized into Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Streptococcus, Bacillus and others.During the forecast period, Lactobacillus is estimated to account for the highest share of the overall market.

It is also expected to be the fastest-growing segment from 2022 to 2027 among all probiotics. The market demand for Lactobacillus is mainly driven by the fact that it is the most commonly used probiotic genus across a wide range of human and animal products.

By application, the global probiotics market can be categorized into food and beverages, dietary supplements, animal feed and others.During the forecast period, the food and beverage segment is expected to account for the largest share of the global probiotics market.

Demand is driven by the growing consumption of fortified and functional foods to promote gut health, physical appearance and overall well-being.

Based on the end use, the global market of probiotics can be categorized into probiotics for humans and probiotics for animals.During the forecast period, the human probiotics segment is estimated to account for a dominant share of the market.

It is primarily driven by the growing consumption of dairy products, infant formula, meat products and dietary supplements across the world, especially in the developing economies.Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05835682/?utm_source=GNW

About ReportlinkerReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place.

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Probiotics in Food, Beverages, Dietary Supplements and Animal Feed - GlobeNewswire

Melatonin supplements are an increasingly popular way to help children get to sleep.

But now sold over-the-counter, fruit-flavored gummies may be a little too appealing to young children. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pediatric ingestions of melatonin reported to poison control shot up 530% between 2012 and 2020.

Research has shown the supplement can improve sleep, but pediatricians urge caution when giving it to kids. Heres what to know:

Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by our bodies in response to darkness, created to help regulate our internal clocks. At night, melatonin increases, telling us we need to go to sleep; it decreases in the morning, as our brain signals that its time to rise.

Melatonin is also sold over the counter as a dietary supplement to aid in sleep. That means it is not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a medication and is available without a prescription. Melatonin supplements are sold as pills, capsules, liquids, and gummies.

If you are experiencing temporary sleep disturbances, such as jet lag or anxiety about an upcoming surgery, melatonin may be able to help you get a better nights rest. The supplement is not meant to treat long-term sleep problems, such as chronic insomnia.

Yes, if used properly. Melatonin is considered safe for children, so long as it is taken in the appropriate dose; children will need a much smaller dose than adults.

It should not be used as a fix for chronic sleep problems.

Talk to your pediatrician before giving your child melatonin. Your doctor can talk to you about whether there are other approaches to improving sleep that you should try first and, if melatonin is a good option, what dose is appropriate.

Easy, unsecured access to melatonin is among the most significant risks to children.

A majority of ingestions reported to the CDC were among children under age 5. Pediatricians say the supplements candy-like form and taste make it appealing to young children. And because its not a prescription medication, parents often dont keep it secured as safely. In the vast majority of cases reported to the CDC, children had mild symptoms, such as fatigue and nausea, and recovered at home.

Consider the dose, other ingredients, and brand.

Because melatonin is not regulated as a medication by the FDA, there is much greater variation in ingredients and the amount of melatonin, depending on the brand you choose. No melatonin supplements are approved by the FDA. But you can check whether the supplement youre considering passes muster with the USP Dietary Supplement Verification Program, a globally recognized nonprofit that promotes standards in medicines and supplements.

Supplements with the USP seal of approval have gone through rigorous testing and auditing, and been evaluated by USP for quality, purity, potency, performance, and consistency, according to the organizations website. If your pediatrician recommends melatonin for your child, ask for recommendations of specific supplements.

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Thinking of giving your kid melatonin? Here are some tips - The Philadelphia Inquirer

Thought much about B vitamins lately? If not, maybe you should.

There are eight varieties of B vitamins. And between them, they supportbrain health, heart health, DNA development and energy regulation. Plus, theyve been found toprevent migraines, ward off recurrence of some skin cancers, and even possibly slow the progression of a devastating neurodegenerative disease.

Some people believe the B stands for boring, says Mark Moyad, M.D., director of preventive and alternative medicine education at the University of Michigan Medical Center in the department of urology.

The reality, he says, is when you look a little closer, the B vitamins are one of the most fascinating categories in medicine.

But like other vitamins, they should not be taken on a whim. Theres evidence, for example, that too much folic acid (vitamin B9) in supplement form can encourage the growth of cancer cells in older people, and an excess of biotin (vitamin B7) can mess with blood lab results.

Theres some risks to taking supplements, says Debbie Fetter, an assistant professor of nutrition at UC Davis. Theyre not entirely benign, given that they can haveside effectsand eveninterfere with other drugs.

Experts recommend checking with your physician before you start any supplement, both to make sure it isnt interacting with something youre already taking, and to ensure that youre not consuming excessive amounts of a nutrient youre getting plenty of in your diet.

This particularly applies to B vitamins. Heres what you need to know about them:

What it does:Thiamine helps to turn the food you eat into the energy your body needs, the National Institute of Healths Office of Dietary Supplements explains. Its especially essential for cell formation and function, and for brain andheart health, adds Sue-Ellen Anderson-Haynes, a nutritionist in Hopkinton, Massachusetts.

Foods you can find it in:Youll find thiamine in yeast, pork, brown rice, beans and lentils, and fortified breakfast cereals. That said, heating these foods can reduce the thiamine content, according to the Mayo Clinic.

How much you should be getting:The National Institute on Aging says men 51 and older need 1.2 milligrams (mg) per day; women 51 and older need 1.1 mg daily.

Who might need a supplement:Most people in the U.S. consume the recommended amounts of thiamine, according to the NIH. However, its worth noting that up to 20 to 30 percent of older adults may have some degree of thiamine deficiency, so talk to your doctor if youre concerned. Health care providers may recommend individuals who consume too much alcohol, people with HIV, diabetics and people who had bariatric surgery supplement with thiamine, Anderson-Haynes says.

What it does:It helps break down carbohydrates, proteins and fats, says the Mayo Clinic. And like vitamin B1, it plays a major role in cell growth and function.

Surprising benefits:A high dosecan reduce migraine frequencyby up to 50 percent, studies show, though researchers arent sure why.

Foods you can find it in:Youll find riboflavin in eggs, organ meats, lean meats, low-fat milk, mushrooms, spinach, fortified cereals, breads and grain products, according to the NIH.

How much you should be getting daily:Men 51 and older should aim for 1.3 mg, and women 51 and older should get 1.1 mg, the NIA says. If youre a migraine sufferer, your doctor may recommend a much higher dose (about 400 mg daily) as a preventive measure.

Who might need a supplement:Vegans, athletes who are vegetarians, and people who dont consume dairy may have trouble meeting the recommended daily amount, the NIH says, and may benefit from a supplement. The same goes for people with a genetic disorder called riboflavin transporter deficiency.

What it does:This one is also important in cell development, again helping to turn the food you eat into the energy you need, Anderson-Haynes says.

The rest is here:

Vitamin B: What to Know About This Essential Nutrient - AARP

CHICAGO The hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) market in the United States could more than double by 2027, provided the US Food and Drug Administration approves its use in food, beverages and dietary supplements, according to a mid-year report from the Brightfield Group.

The Chicago-based Brightfield Group, a research firm that covers the CBD market, developed two forecasts, one with FDA approval and one without. With FDA approval, the US CBD market would shoot up to $11 billion in retail sales in 2027 from an expected $5 billion in 2022. Without FDA approval, the market would increase to over $6 billion.

With FDA approval, the Brightfield Group foresees compound annual growth rates of over 40% for CBD products in mass merchandisers/club stores and grocery stores. Without FDA approval, the CAGR for both categories would be under 10%.

The Brightfield Group expects topicals to make up nearly 42% of CBD grocery store sales in 2022, followed by tinctures at 19%.

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CBD market could jump by billions of dollars with FDA approval - Food Business News

You must have heard or read the word probiotics on some occasions. They are primarily a benefit of yogurt consumption. But probably youre wondering: what are probiotics? And most importantly, what do probiotics do?

There are so many probiotics that you can find either in food or in dietary supplements. They help you with many health issues, from digestion to even bad breath. But which one is the one that fits you better? You can several kinds of Probiotic supplements.

With different supplements on the market, it is not easy to find the right one. Therefore, we did the research on everything you need to know about probiotics. And well also explain how they work in your body.

Probiotics are living organisms supposed to bring a benefit to your body when consumed. However, medical science has argued about the benefits of taking probiotics for years.

The community of microorganisms in your gut ends up in the gut flora. Furthermore, that bacteria is also referred to as gut microbiota or microbiome.

The gut microbiota includes bacteria, viruses, fungi, archaea, and helminths. The human body is a complex ecosystem that hosts near to 500 different types of microorganisms, and the vast majority of them are bacteria.

An important fact is that the gut flora acts the same way that an organ does. This flora also performs many vital functions, such as manufacturing vitamins. It also helps turn fibers into short-chain fats, which feed the gut walls and help perform metabolic functions.

These helpful bacteria are mostly known for being good for your health, but probiotics are not only bacteria. Some other microorganisms can work as probiotics when consumed. They studied some types of yeast, viruses, and fungi to see how much they help digest food and other health benefits.

Since probiotics are microorganisms such as bacteria, many people question their consumption. Your body has both good and bad bacteria; probiotics are known for being non-prejudicial for you and to benefit instead.

Probiotic is known as good bacteria because they help keep your gut healthy and functioning. Also, doctors recommend you consume probiotics if needed, mainly in case of recent diarrhea episodes or when having bad digestion.

The gut flora is also known to be very sensitive to dietary routines. An unbalanced diet can result in an unbalanced intestinal flora, which results in numerous diseases. These diseases can be obesity, type-2 diabetes, heart disease, different types of cancer, and even depression.

The main idea of consuming probiotics is because of the effect they have on the gut, and this effect is to fight other bacteria. Probiotics will fight harmful bacteria when you have too much of them, helping you boost your immune system. There are also probiotics for women.

When ingested, the good bacteria will try to compete with the potentially pathogenic microbes in your gut and try to gain some space to live. The way that good microorganisms do this is by overcrowding your gut, so bad bacteria wont have room to reproduce.

Because of the increase in probiotic popularity, you may find many supplements on the market, from probiotics for women to probiotics for men. But the question you must be asking is: which supplement fits me best?

To answer this question, you must consider the effect of each probiotic associated with your general health. For example, the most popular probiotics for men are those that promote prostate health and raise testosterone levels. And the most popular probiotics for women are those that help the vaginal microbiome to protect against urinary tract infections. There are also probiotics for UTI if you would like to know more.

Probiotics can contain a great variety of microorganisms. The most common are bacteria that belong to two groups known as bifidobacterial and lactobacillus. There are other bacteria used as a probiotic, such as saccharomyces boulardii.

Besides the genera division, probiotics are classified into subtypes known are species. Each of these probiotic species has different effects on your body. The names of these microorganisms have the genera starting letter and the name of the subtype.

Most consumed probiotics are species that belong to two different genera. Also, medical science focuses mainly on these two because of their benefits to the human body. So before taking any probiotic supplement, it is highly recommended that you consult your doctor first.

This is a species of bacteria commonly used in foods and supplements. They are good for supporting the immune system and limiting the growth of prejudicial microorganisms in the gut. They also help break down lactose nutrients so the body can feed on them.

In the Bifidobacterium group, we can find:

This may be the most common of all probiotics. This bacterium is well known for its ability to break down lactose. This probiotic is also responsible for lactic acid, which helps to control the bacteria population in the GI tract. Lactobacillus exists mostly in the mouth and the small intestine.

Lactic acid can create an acidic environment in your digestive system, which can prevent the growth of different pathogens associated with food and digestion. It also will help you to absorb minerals like iron and zinc.

Some lactobacilli are:

Streptococcus has more strains than those that contain the disease-causing bacteria. Streptococcus has bacteria that help produce lactic acid and also help prevent disease.

Many Streptococcus strains can be found in your mucus and even in your skin. Some of the Streptococcus species work as pesticides and growth additives for plants.

Some of the streptococcus subspecies are:

Its important not to confuse prebiotics and probiotics, even though both can be found as supplements and even in the food itself.

Prebiotics are plant-based organisms, and you can see them as a fertilizer that helps grow healthy bacteria in the gut. Most fruits and vegetables contain prebiotics, especially those that contain complex carbohydrates. Since these types of carbs are not digestible by your body, they pass through directly to your intestine and become food for bacteria.

Probiotics, on the other hand, contain live organisms. They usually contain different strains of microorganisms that are added directly to the population in your gut. Probiotic supplements also contain living organisms. A single dose may include a single strain or a blend of different microbes.

You should also keep in mind that there exist many types and brands of supplements, and they carry many types of microorganisms. For example, the most commonly used bacterium is lactobacillus, but there are around 120 species of it. At the same time, about 12 species of microorganisms are used as probiotics.

Before taking any supplement, whether prebiotic or probiotic, you should always talk to your doctor first.

Not all probiotics are the same, and of course, they do not all do the same functions in your organism. Some probiotics even help you get rid of oral microorganisms that can cause cavities.

There are a few others that will help you have better digestion and others with different benefits.

Some digestive specialists recommend the use of probiotics to fight off disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome. Since the 90s, different clinical studies have proven that the use of probiotics can help treat gastrointestinal ills. They can also prevent vaginal and urinal infections in women and even delay the development of allergies in children.

Some of the conditions that probiotics can treat are:

Some of the studies results are inconclusive, but there is a lot of research that boosts the idea that probiotics can help relieve the effects of irritable bowel syndrome.

Probiotics may help maintain remission of some digestive problems. Inflammatory bowel disease, Crohns disease, and ulcerative colitis are some of them.

Lactobacillus GG is a bacterium that helps greatly in reducing the course of infectious diarrhea in children, but this case is not the same in adults, where it can have few to no effects.

Probiotics can also help strengthen the skin, allowing it to resist better any case of infection and allergies.

Just like the intestinal tract, the vagina is also a very delicate and balanced ecosystem. Lactobacillus strains that are dominant in the vagina make it too acidic for almost any other bacteria to survive. But some factors can throw the vagina system out of balance. These include birth control pills, antibiotics, and spermicides. However, probiotic treatments prove beneficial to the restoration of the vaginas microflora.

Helicobacter Pylori is the major cause of gastritis and peptic ulcer. Not only that but also this microorganism is mostly antibiotic-resistant. Because of that, many professionals tend to recommend the use of some probiotic supplements before trying any modern medicine to treat these diseases.

There is limited evidence on how probiotics can help reduce the recurrence of bladder cancer. However, research supports the fact that they help to fight urinal tract infections and some other bladder infections, such as bladder inflammation. But certain probiotics appear to improve the bodys response to bladder tumors.

Some probiotics help fight oral pathogens, such as those responsible for cavities and teeth loss.

In 2019, a study on probiotics set out to establish the connection between the effect that gut flora has on the immune system and how it helped prevent Covid-19 symptoms.

Some Covid-19 patients reported having different gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea, vomiting, and appetite loss. Also, imbalances of the gut flora are commonly related to lung disease and respiratory tract infections.

Research theorizes that keeping the intestinal flora balanced can improve lung health. These results lead to think that it might help guard the respiratory system against pathogens like SARS-CoV-2.

Some recent studies link gut health to good mood and mental health. Also, these studies show a link between probiotic supplements and the improvement of some mental health disorders.

Some researchers have demonstrated the link between taking probiotic supplements with Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus and the improvement of anxiety, depression, and others.

Certain bacteria may help reduce cholesterol by breaking down bile in the gut. This function, at the same time, helps reduce bad cholesterol and lowers blood pressure.

Bile is made almost entirely of cholesterol, and bacteria prevent it from getting back into the blood strain by breaking it down. Also, some studies show that regularly eating probiotic yogurt helps reduce up to 5% cholesterol in the blood.

This fact can be one of the most exciting features for most people. Many mechanisms help probiotics bring about weight loss. For example, some probiotics prevent your gut from absorbing dietary fat.

Since probiotics help increase the number of some hormones, such as GLP-1, they can make you feel full for longer. Also, this hormone causes the organism to burn more calories and store less fat than usual.

But it is always important to keep in mind that not every probiotic helps with fat loss. On the other hand, probiotics such as Lactobacillus acidophilus can even lead you to gain more weight.

There might be many reasons why youre considering using probiotics in your daily diet. Poor diet, lack of exercise, and the abuse of antibiotics can cause you to lose your natural bacteria. At the same time, the loss of intestinal bacteria can lead to infection and inflammation.

Of course, adding probiotic supplements or consuming probiotic foods regularly can prevent inflammation and other digestion-related issues.

There are many ways to add probiotics to your daily basis. The best way for you to get the benefits of probiotics can depend much on your criteria.

There are tons of supplements and thousands of customer reviews on the internet. You can get probiotics from tablets, capsules, and even powders that contain bacteria in the dried form.

You can also get probiotics from a wide variety of foods. In many fermented products, you can find live probiotics. Foods like pickles, miso, kefir, kimchi, and soy products are rich in lactic acid bacteria.

Medical research has proven probiotics to be beneficial for most common gastrointestinal issues, like irritable bowel disease. Furthermore, probiotic bacteria also help manage other aspects of human health. The benefits of probiotics have been known for years, but its also important to keep in mind that there could be health risks due to their consumption. Being aware of this will ensure that youre safe when it comes to taking a supplement.

We made a list of possible side-effects of probiotics for you:

The local drug department regulates most probiotics, and they hit the market as food ingredients. In most countries, the law regulates dietary fiber supplements. But in some cases, supplements do not require approval before their marketing.

Dietary supplement regulations vary from one country to another, so maybe buying online is a choice you should think twice about. Always look for companies that follow practices such as third-party testing. And dont forget to read the customer review section if buying online.

Maybe the safest choice for consuming probiotics is to acquire them directly from your healthcare provider or at least have suggestions.

Having a healthy gut and a good digestion process will always be a benefit for your general health. But in the search for good health, you may also get exposed to issues mentioned earlier. Thats why it is so important to be aware of the possible side effects.

A probiotic organism is a living organism that can help you maintain healthy health when ingested and applied to the body. These can appear in fermented dairy products like yogurt, and other fermented foods, nutritional supplements and beauty items. Nonetheless, some people view bacteria as being harmful, although many actually help. Various bacteria can help in digesting nutrient-rich substances or in the production of vitamins. Most bacteria and viruses found in probiotics are the same or similar to bacteria that exist naturally inside your body.

Having good health, a healthy intestine, and good digestion is a little bit more than just adding probiotics to your diet. Daily exercise and a good diet are just as important as adding supplements to your daily basis.

But on the other hand, probiotics supplements offer you a wide range of health benefits at the same time that side effects are minimal or rare to occur. You can get answers to several questions like, how to improve gut health?

You must remember that there are many types of good bacteria, and many of them are available on the market. So, keep in mind that you must have an expert opinion before taking any new dietary supplement.

And as a final note, always read the label before acquiring any supplement or medicine. Make sure that youre not allergic to any component in the formula and that there are medical studies to back it up. The benefits of probiotics usually outweigh any possible side effects, but prevention is the key to safety.

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What Does Probiotics Do? - The Island Now

In Morristown, you can get waxed and massaged, manicured and pedicured, slimmed and trimmed, Botoxed and blow-dried.

Soon, you may be able to roll up your sleeve and get vitamined, too.

The town has ruled that intravenous vitamin drips are permitted in the downtown business zone. A Bedminster couple intends to rent a former fitness therapy storefront at 22 Speedwell Ave., next to the vacant Century 21 department store, to open The IV Vitamin Lounge.

Its envisioned as a spa-like lounge where certified nurses deliver intravenous fluids containing a blend of saline, vitamins, and supplements that are specially tailored to meet (patrons) individual needs, according to a zoning appeal by The Walsh Company.

Such hydration stations have popped up in Hoboken, Palm Beach in California, Miami and Delray Beach in Florida, and Nashville, Tenn.

Morristowns zoning department initially said no thanks, deeming this a medical use. The town core zone requires an active ground floor use, and medical doesnt qualify.

Ed and Lynn Walsh appealed the decision to the zoning board last month, arguing their venture is not a medical use, but rather a personal service, akin to a barbershop, salon or a recently approved cannabis shop.

The board agreed, memorializing its 6-1 vote in a resolution last week. Chairman Steve Pylypchuk was the lone dissenter.

It generates medical waste, its injected directly into the bloodstream, it requires licensed medical practitioners to perform it, which suggests the IV Vitamin Lounge is a medical operation, Pylypchuk said prior to his vote at Junes virtual zoning board meeting.

In October 2021, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration raised concerns about how such vitamin mixes are formulated, saying that sterile compounding activities being performed by business entities such as IV hydration clinics present risk and require continued evaluation.

The regulatory agency cited the case of a 50-year-old woman hospitalized for suspected septic shock and multi-organ failure after receiving an I.V. vitamin infusion at home. The FDA found numerous unsanitary conditions at a Santa Barbara, CA, medical clinic that prepared the vitamin mix.

The Walshes told the Morristown zoning board they will comply with state requirements for IV doses to be administered by licensed medical professionalsin this case, nurses. Formulations will meet industry standards, they said.

Its just another way to deliver vitamins, Vitolo said.

The board heard testimony portraying intravenous cocktails as antidotes to hangovers and jet lag, and a rejuvenation technique popular in Hollywood.

Ed Walsh, who runs a construction business, and his wife, a registered nurse, described their mission as enhancing wellness for walk-ins and regular clients, who will sit for intravenous sessions lasting 20 to 45 minutes. They plan to have one nurse practitioner and at least three registered nurses on staff. Their daughter also is an R.N.

In his cross-country travels over the last five years, Ed Walsh said, he has availed himself of such services for relief from migraines. Pro golfers use these services to ward off dehydration, he said, adding his frustration at having to drive to Clifton for the nearest hydration station.

The Walshes attorney, Frank Vitolo, compared intravenous treatments to chewable vitamins, in far superior form.

Theyre not curing, theyre not diagnosing, theyre not providing therapeutics to treat any disease or any ailments. Theyre simply providing hydration and vitamins in hopes of improving wellness, Vitolo said of his clients.

Such a personal service business is healthier than the sale of alcohol, cigarettes, fast food and marijuana, all permitted within this Morristown zone, the lawyer said.

Hollywood has known about this for decades, testified the Walshes prospective landlord, Doug Greenberger, asserting the IV Vitamin Lounge would be a boon to executives who needed to be fresh after red-eye flights home.

The pitch resonated with board member Anthony Murphy.

These new therapies are kind of cool, and Hollywood has known about these for a very long time. I saw something when I was in Thailand where you stick your feet in, and little fish eat the calluses on your feet.

Board member Noelle Nish supported the use, even though I cant stand needles.

Questions were raised about whether customer information required the same privacy protections as patient records. The applicants said such information would be treated with the same confidentiality one would expect from a salon.

While noting he was troubled by some medical aspects of the application, board member James Bednarz said its not strong enough for me to say this is a medical office.

After the favorable vote, Vitolo thanked the board on behalf of The I.V. Vitamin Lounge:

Hopefully, Ill see you in there on one of those big recliners, getting a post-hangover fix, he said.

This story has been updated with information from the FDA. Morristown Green has reached out to state health officials and medical experts for additional comments.

Excerpt from:

Need vitamins? Soon you can roll up your sleeve in Morristown - Morristown Green

SO PAULO, Brazil A specific nutrient could be the secret ingredient in a new anti-aging therapy. Researchers from the University of So Paulo have discovered that the amino acid taurine can help to combat the aging process.

The human body produces potentially toxic byproducts called free radicals when cells process oxygen and food. Even though some of these molecules carry out functions essential to the body, too many free radicals can damage the cells internal structures, stopping the cells from functioning properly and possibly leading to chronic diseases. This cellular problem is known as oxidative stress.

When we get older, the control mechanisms that help maintain an appropriate reactive oxygen species balance become less efficient. This is where dieting and taurine come into play.

Taurine is a nutrient people can find in certain foods, including fish, shellfish, chicken, turkey, and beef. It is also a naturally occurring substance in some tissues of the human body, especially the liver. Taurine is also important for the health of the central nervous system, immunity, eyesight, and fertility, according to researchers.

For the study, study authors divided 24 women between the ages of 55 and 70 into two groups. One group took three 500-milligram capsules of taurine daily for 16 weeks, while the other group took a placebo.

Researchers analyzed oxidative stress markers in blood samples collected before and at the end of the study. They found a nearly 20-percent increase of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the taurine group. Meanwhile, the placebo group saw a decrease of 3.5 percent. Researchers explain that SOD protects cells against harmful reactions of free radicals. Antioxidants, in general, keep free radicals in check and lower oxidative stress.

Preventing the buildup of free radicals that naturally occurs with aging probably prevents cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure, among other chronic conditions, says co-principal investigator Ellen de Freitas, a professor at the Ribeirao Preto School of Physical Education and Sports, in a media release.

Freitas says there are few studies which examine the effects of taurine in the context of aging.

This study was a first step, aimed at investigating the ideal dose and possible side effects, none of which was observed in any of the participants, notes Freitas.

Freitas group has studied taurines antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects for more than 10 years, first in high-performance athletes and then in obese people.

The results showed that oxidative stress in these individuals could be controlled when their diet was supplemented with this amino acid. We then decided to test the strategy in the context of aging. This was very novel, so we began with a very low safety dose, explains Freitas.

The study initially set out to investigate the effect of taurine supplementation combined with exercise, but the COVID-19 pandemic scuttled that approach, so researchers only continued with the nutritional part of the study, since they could monitor it remotely.

Researchers analyzed two other oxidative stress markers outside SOD: the antioxidant enzyme glutathione reductase, which decreased drastically in both groups, and malondialdehyde, which increased by 23 percent in the control group and decreased by four percent in the taurine group.

These results were modest, but we believe a higher dose of taurine could produce stronger evidence for its benefits, says Freitas.

Gabriela Abud, the studys first author and a PhD candidate at the Ribeirao Preto Medical School, says changes in the volunteers diet in the early months of the COVID-19 lockdown may have affected the biochemical analysis results.

In addition to markers of oxidative stress, we analyzed levels of minerals such as selenium, zinc, magnesium and calcium, which are important to the functioning of these enzymes, says Abud. Selenium, for example, is a co-factor for glutathione peroxidase [which indirectly helps eliminate hydrogen peroxide from the organism] and was reduced in both groups.

Freitas called the taurine supplementation the cherry on the cake to combat the aging process, but people still need to have a healthy diet and exercise.

A healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise is fundamental for the anti-aging effect to occur, says Freitas.

The study is published in the journal Nutrition.

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Taurine supplements could be the key to reversing the aging process - Study Finds

There are four major areas that influence your diabetesnutrition, exercise, medications, and stress. Without paying attention to these four areas, it may be really challenging to effectively manage blood sugar levels long term.

However, if you are already paying good attention to these, and you want that extra leg-up in blood sugar management, there may be supplements that can help.

One supplement in particular that has been shown to be helpful in the treatment of type 2 diabetes isinositol.

Read on, and for more tips on managing diabetes, check out 5 Worst Breads to Eat for Blood Sugar, Says Dietitian.

There is evidence to suggest that inositol helps insulin work more effectivelyincreasing insulin sensitivity. Many doctors prescribe it for insulin resistant conditions like PCOS, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.

Some call it a B vitamin, but it is technically not a vitamin at all. It's a type of carbohydrate that can be found in foods like whole grains, beans, nuts, and some fruits. The supplement helps you effectively take a larger dose at once than you may be able to find in your daily meals.

Inositol has been associated with improved insulin resistance. Insulin resistance is a phenomenon that occurs when the body has produced too much of this hormone, and our cells stop responding to insulin as quickly.6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

Typically, after eating carbohydrates, our body produces insulin in response to the natural rise in blood glucose. However, if blood sugar has been consistently elevated, the body will produce more and more insulin to help bring blood sugar down.

Insulin works at the cellular level to let glucose into our cells and aids in using glucose for fuel. This is good news! We need insulin to survive, to feel energized, and use our food for fuel each day.

However, in the case of insulin resistance, the cells stop responding to insulin because it is always around. Thus, blood sugar cannot enter the cell or be used for energy. We end up with more blood glucose and insulin in our bloodstream as a result.

This is the mechanism in which inositol assists blood sugar management in type 2 diabetes. Inositol decreases glucose absorption in the intestines, which lowers blood sugar. It has been shown to decrease the amount of insulin in the bloodstream, effectively decreasing insulin resistance and improving insulin sensitivity.

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Inositol supplementation is not recommended for all types of diabetes. It has primarily been studied in individuals with type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes.

As always, discuss medication interactions and side effects with your doctor before beginning a new supplement. Some cases of overuse have experienced low blood sugar; you may be advised against this supplement if that is the case.

Caroline Thomason, RDN

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The #1 Best Supplement for Diabetes, Says Dietitian Eat This Not That - Eat This, Not That

Beauty is an iron mine, once remarked the Australian mining magnate, Gina Reinhart. She was talking about a precious resource, but iron is also profoundly important to living organisms: from bacteria and fungi, to mammals like us.

Iron acts as a key to numerous metabolic functions within our bodies. But iron deficiency remains as one of the top global health risks recognised by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Iron deficiency has become the most prevalent micronutrient disorder worldwide, and COVID may be worsening the problem.

The type of iron we mine is different from the free-form iron that can be used biologically. Free-form iron has a propensity to jump between two chemical states, allowing it to bind to various molecules, and participate in all sorts of essential reactions within our bodies.

But we see a different story again during food digestion. Inside our upper small intestine where iron is most effectively absorbed, free-form iron tends to bind to oxygen, other minerals and food components. This often results in rock-like, insoluble clumps (which are like the ones we mine!). These are too big to pass through or between our cells.

This means that even when we consume enough iron, typically only ~1535% of it is absorbed. It also means iron availability can be improved, or inhibited depending on how we eat it or what we eat it with.

For example, heme iron from animal flesh has a cage-like structure, which carries the iron in a soluble form that prevents it from clumping during absorption. In many Western countries, heme iron only accounts for 10% of the iron eaten, but two thirds of the total iron absorbed.

Getting sufficient iron sounds like simple maths: we want to add enough to our dietary intake to make up for the iron being lost from the body, such as through faeces, skin shedding, menstruation (for women) and sweat. But the two sides of the equation can change depending on who and where we are throughout our lifetime.

Generally, iron deficiency occurs when our bodys stores of iron are depleted from not having consumed or absorbed enough iron to meet our needs.

This can happen when people restrict their diets, such as for religious, social or medical reasons. Some people also have a tough time keeping up when their iron needs increase, such as pregnant women and growing children.

But iron deficiency can also happen when the body has enough iron, but cant effectively transport it into cells. This is common in those with both acute and chronic infections, heart and autoimmune conditions, and cancers. In these cases, the underlying disease needs to be treated first, rather than improving iron intake.

The table below summarises some common causes of iron deficiency. Sometimes multiple causes may occur simultaneously for example, for many elite athletes (35% of women and 11% of men), iron deficiency results from reduced absorption due to inflammation, on top of increased loss through sweat and breakdown of blood cells.

The ongoing COVID epidemic has also introduced multiple risk factors for iron deficiency.

We know severe infection with SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID) may change the way some people metabolise iron, leading to lower iron levels up to two months after infection. This contributes to symptoms commonly reported after infection, such as fatigue and lethargy.

Recovery from the pandemic itself has also exacerbated food supply issues, as well as the rising global income inequality.

This means more people face barriers to food security and the nutrient-dense foods that help boost our iron intake like red meat or leafy greens may be unavailable or unaffordable for them.

Read more: Why we should take a women-centred approach to diagnosing and treating iron deficiency

It may be tempting to pick up one of the many widely available iron supplements to attempt to boost your intake. However, we have to keep in mind that conventional iron supplementation is associated with some negative side effects.

These include damage to our gut lining, nausea, diarrhoea and constipation. Iron supplementation has also been linked to changes in the gut microbiome, a critical determinant of health.

The WHO has recommended two other approaches: diet diversification and food fortification.

Diet diversification is exactly as it sounds: having a diet with a variety of wholefoods such as fruits and vegetables, grains and legumes, meat, dairy, and nuts and seeds.

This approach not only ensures sufficient levels of iron are found in the foods we eat, but also that they come with different forms or vehicles to improve absorption. This approach works even with plant-based foods.

Read more: What to drink with dinner to get the most iron from your food (and what to avoid)

Food fortification, where iron is added to processed foods, is also a fairly safe yet accessible option due to its lower dose. In Australia, iron is commonly fortified in products such as bread, cereals and ready-to-drink mixes.

It can be challenging to get the iron into our body and where its needed. But before turning to supplements, we must remind ourselves that food sources should always be first-in-line. In cases of diagnosed deficiencies, your healthcare professional will provide you with further information where supplements are necessary.

Read more: Lemon water won't detox or energise you. But it may affect your body in other ways

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Low iron is a health risk made worse by COVID. How to get more without reaching for supplements - The Conversation Indonesia