Gut Bacteria

Beans don't have the best rep when it comes to our guts. But a new study has shown how a daily dose of navy beans can easily restore gut health in colorectal cancer survivors, revealing their broad benefit in helping protect against chronic diseases.

Up to four million Americans may be enduring this common ailment right now. But what if a microbe found in the gut could relieve it and restore gut health? Scientists believe they've found the genetic key that powers this microbe's motility engines.

With more than 1,000 bacterial species, the gut microbiome is an untapped resource of disease-fighting power. Now, scientists have found a way to rank crucial members of this 'microscopic multicultural community', which has massive medical potential.

Another large study has found a correlation between proton pump inhibitors (PPI) and an increased risk of dementia, particularly for those aged 60-69 years. But frustratingly, scientists still don’t understand exactly what that connection is.

Around 1.6 million Americans live with inflammatory bowel disease, dealing with persistent and debilitating relapses. Scientists have identified how a specialized subset of T cells falter in flare-ups, and they may hold they key to long-term recovery.

Turmeric can stain an amateur chef’s kitchen benches, hands and clothes bright yellow and has been a staple in traditional medicine for 4,000 years. Now, for the first time, a clinical trial suggests it can treat acid reflux as well as common medications.

Scientists have demonstrated in mice that specially designed probiotics can reduce brain inflammation from diseases like multiple sclerosis. The study points to new potential therapies for chronic conditions that may be as simple as popping a pill.

For many, the idea of having a few dozen hookworms set up shop in your gut sounds more like a Survivor challenge than a beneficial health therapy, but scientists see a bright future in the human worm farm's ability to protect against chronic disease.

Some more bad news for gluten. While we’ve been aware of how gluten can impact the digestive tract, New Zealand scientists have now identified for the first time that it can also cause brain inflammation, likely triggered by an immune response.

A new study has provided the first evidence of a link between the gut microbiome and cocaine use and the cravings that follow withdrawal. The findings open the door to potential treatments for drug addiction and relapse prevention.

A new study has shed light on how gut bacteria, diet, and the immune system interact and how some people remain asymptomatic while infectious. It may have opened the door to a vaccine that prevents diarrheal diseases caused by E. coli.

In order to see what's going on in someone's digestive tract, doctors typically analyze stool samples obtained from that person. A new swallowable capsule, however, is claimed to paint a much more accurate picture of an individual's gut health.