HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

Pooping More Than This (or Less) Could Raise Disease Risk

Published

5 months ago

July 18, 2024

1oo9t

Irregular bowel movements could lead to bigger health issues over time, according to a new study of bowel frequency among 1,400 healthy adults.

The study found that people who defecate one to two times per day may have healthier gut bacteria than those who go more or less often. Meanwhile, participants with greater or lesser bowel frequency – those with constipation or diarrhea — had higher levels of blood markers associated with kidney, liver, and neurodegenerative diseases…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

“We’re arguing that over time, exposure to these molecules at higher levels in the blood is a danger,” said study author Sean Gibbons, PhD, a microbiome researcher and associate professor at the Institute for Systems Biology, a nonprofit biomedical research organization in Seattle. “People should manage bowel movement frequency to be in a more normal range to avoid chronic exposure that could predispose them to some of these chronic diseases.”

That’s because if waste takes too long, or not long enough, to travel through the gut, the timing can impact the way the gut microbiome – the community of microbes that lives in your intestines – uses nutrients from your food, leading to byproducts that can be detrimental to health.

“The metabolism associated with our gut microbiome, we’re coming to realize, is one of the major ways the microbiome communicates with the rest of our body,” said Christopher J. Damman, MD, a clinical associate professor of gastroenterology at University of Washington Medicine, who was not involved with the study.

Previous studies have suggested that the way gut microbes break down food — and the molecules, or metabolites, they produce in the process — can influence a person’s risk of heart disease, diabetes, liver disease, high blood pressure, and insulin resistance.

“This is a growing theme within microbiome science,” Damman said, “and actually helps connect the dots, figuratively and literally, between how an ecosystem of microbial organisms in the gut could have so many far-reaching consequences.”

Why Poop Patterns Matter

Your gut microbiome helps you more fully make use of the energy from food. It can digest fiber, for example, making it available to us when we otherwise could not access it on our own.

Microbes use that fiber to create short chain fatty acids, which are healthy for you because they reduce inflammation. But if the waste travels too fast or too slow, the microbes can’t do their job.

On the slow end of the spectrum are people with constipation, defined in the study as one or two bowel movements a week. These participants had higher blood levels of p-cresol-sulfate and indoxyl sulfate — substances linked to kidney damage — than those who defecated more often.

“If poop takes too long to make it through the gut, you sort of exhaust all of those fibers, and the microbes switch to fermenting protein,” said Gibbons. When microbes ferment protein, “they start to produce these toxins like p-cresol sulfate or indoxyl sulfate.”

These toxins have previously been linked to chronic kidney disease as well as neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. In study participants, elevated indoxyl sulfate was associated with reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate, a marker of the kidneys’ ability to filter waste.

Gut bacteria deprived of fiber may also feed on the layer of mucus that lines the gut, eroding it and allowing bacteria and toxic metabolites to pass through to other organs.

When waste moves too fast — as with diarrhea — loose stools wash out your colon before the bacteria can finish breaking down fiber into protective short-chain fatty acids, potentially leading to inflammation. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

People in the study who went four or more times per day had higher blood levels of markers associated with liver disease risk, including bilirubin, the yellowish pigment produced when your liver breaks down red blood cells. High bilirubin levels in blood can be a sign of liver or bile duct dysfunction, Gibbons said.

What You Can Do to Balance Your Gut

If you have fewer than three bowel movements per week or more than three per day, talk to your doctor about strategies to get regular, the researchers recommended.

“I think that clinicians should take bowel movement frequency more seriously as a clinical factor that needs to be managed actively,” said Gibbons.
A simple place to start is the produce aisle.

“Eating more vegetables and more fruit — whole foods – that was associated with having a more normal range of bowel movement frequency,” said Gibbons.

These foods are rich in fiber, which regulates bowel habits, and polyphenols, which nourish the helpful gut bacteria. The U.S. government’s dietary guidelines recommend eating 14 grams of fiber for every 1,000 calories, or about 28 grams per day. Any fruits and vegetables can help: An avocado has 9 grams of fiber, a cup of raspberries has 8 grams, a banana has up to 5 grams, and a cup of broccoli has 2 grams.

Keep in mind that when you start eating more fiber, symptoms like gas and diarrhea might temporarily get worse as your gut bacteria adjust. “In some cases, it’s just a matter of calibration,” Damman said.

But if problems persist or you experience a sudden, unexplained shift in bathroom habits, talk to your health care provider, said Damman.

One reason Gibbons began studying this subject is because he and a colleague each had a relative who’d been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease after years of chronic constipation.

“Our families’ experience is that both of these people experienced decades-long chronic constipation before they ever had any symptoms of neurodegeneration,” Gibbons said. “This is well known in the literature … people who end up with Parkinson’s are much more likely to have had chronic constipation.”

However, those studies can’t prove that chronic constipation actually causes Parkinson’s – they can only demonstrate a link.

“Maybe the disease itself can affect bowel motility,” Gibbons speculated. “A lot of neurotransmitter stuff can affect how fast you poop. But we suspected that even in a healthy population, the microbial metabolism that could be driving some of this organ damage is in a forward direction actually causally affecting the body.”

Next, Gibbons hopes to obtain funding for more research to monitor how people respond to interventions to manage irregular bowel patterns.

READ FULL STORY HERE>>...CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

If You Fall In Blood Group O, Avoid These Habits And You Will Live Longer

Published

2 days ago

December 22, 2024

1oo9t

Living longer and healthier often involves understanding how our genetic predispositions, including blood type, can influence our health outcomes. For individuals with blood type O, there are specific habits and lifestyle choices that, when avoided, can contribute to a longer and healthier life.

Blood type O is often referred to as the “hunter” blood type in the context of the blood type diet theory, which suggests that individuals with this blood type may benefit from a diet that resembles that of early humans who were primarily hunters and gatherers. While the scientific evidence supporting the blood type diet is limited and controversial, there are other health considerations that individuals with blood type O should keep in mind…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

One of the most crucial factors for individuals with blood type O is maintaining a balanced diet. While specific diet plans may vary, it is generally recommended to avoid processed foods, particularly those high in sugars and unhealthy fats. Instead, focusing on a diet rich in lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables can help support overall health and well-being. This dietary approach not only aligns with potential benefits suggested by the blood type diet but also with broader nutritional guidelines for promoting longevity.

Another important consideration for individuals with blood type O is regular physical activity. Engaging in regular exercise not only helps maintain a healthy weight but also promotes cardiovascular health, strengthens bones and muscles, and improves overall mood and mental well-being. Activities such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming, or participating in sports can all contribute to a longer and healthier life.

In addition to diet and exercise, managing stress levels is essential for individuals with blood type O. High-stress levels can contribute to a range of health problems, including hypertension, digestive issues, and impaired immune function. Techniques such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>> READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Furthermore, individuals with blood type O should be mindful of their caffeine and alcohol intake. While moderate consumption of coffee or tea may have some health benefits, excessive caffeine intake can lead to insomnia, anxiety, and digestive problems. Similarly, excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and certain types of cancer.

Lastly, avoiding smoking and maintaining regular health check-ups are crucial habits for individuals with blood type O. Smoking significantly increases the risk of various diseases, including lung cancer and cardiovascular disease. Regular health check-ups allow for early detection and management of potential health issues, helping to maintain overall health and longevity.

In conclusion, while genetics and blood type play a role in health outcomes, lifestyle choices such as diet, exercise, stress management, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are crucial for individuals with blood type O to live longer and healthier lives. By adopting these habits, individuals can optimize their health and well-being, regardless of their blood type, and potentially increase their lifespan.

READ FULL STORY HERE>>...CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

If You Don’t Want To Suffer Stroke At Old Age, Avoid Excess Intake Of These 3 Things

Published

2 days ago

December 22, 2024

1oo9t

As we age, the risk of suffering a stroke increases, but many of the factors contributing to stroke are modifiable through lifestyle choices, particularly diet. While no single factor guarantees a stroke-free life, reducing the intake of certain substances can help mitigate the risk significantly. Among the key culprits that contribute to stroke risk are excessive consumption of salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats. Here’s how these three substances affect stroke risk and why you should consider limiting them:

1. Excessive Salt (Sodium):

High sodium intake is one of the leading contributors to hypertension, which is a major risk factor for stroke. When you consume too much salt, it can cause your blood pressure to rise, putting extra strain on the heart and blood vessels. Over time, this can lead to damage to the arteries, making them more prone to blockages, which can trigger a stroke. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends limiting salt intake to less than 5 grams per day. However, many people consume much more, primarily from processed foods, canned soups, fast food, and restaurant meals, where sodium is often hidden in excess. By reducing salt intake and choosing low-sodium alternatives, you can significantly lower your chances of developing high blood pressure and, by extension, stroke…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

2. Excessive Sugar (Added Sugars):

A diet high in refined sugars can contribute to the development of several conditions that increase stroke risk, including obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Consuming too much sugar causes an increase in blood glucose levels, leading to insulin resistance, weight gain, and inflammation—all of which are linked to an elevated risk of stroke. Additionally, high blood sugar can damage blood vessels over time, leading to atherosclerosis, or the hardening and narrowing of the arteries. To protect your brain health, it’s important to limit sugary foods and beverages, especially sodas, candies, and baked goods, which contain added sugars that can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 6 teaspoons (25 grams) of added sugar per day for women and 9 teaspoons (38 grams) for men. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

3. Unhealthy Fats (Trans and Saturated Fats):

Not all fats are created equal, and while some fats are essential for good health, unhealthy fats—particularly trans fats and excess saturated fats—can increase your risk of stroke. Trans fats, often found in processed and packaged foods like baked goods, snacks, and margarine, can raise bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and lower good cholesterol (HDL). This leads to plaque buildup in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis, which significantly increases the likelihood of a stroke. Similarly, a diet high in saturated fats, commonly found in fatty cuts of meat, full-fat dairy products, and certain oils (like palm and coconut oil), can also elevate LDL cholesterol and promote the narrowing of arteries. Replacing these unhealthy fats with healthy fats—such as those found in nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil—can help protect against strokes.

Final Thoughts: While there is no magic bullet to prevent a stroke, maintaining a balanced, nutritious diet is one of the most effective strategies for lowering stroke risk in older age. Reducing your intake of excess salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats can help regulate blood pressure, prevent plaque buildup, and maintain healthy blood vessels, all of which reduce the risk of stroke. Along with a healthy diet, regular physical activity, not smoking, and managing stress are also critical components of a stroke-prevention plan. By making conscious choices to limit these three substances in your diet, you can significantly improve your long-term health and reduce your chances of experiencing a stroke in old age.

READ FULL STORY HERE>>...CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

How Long Does It Take For a Healthy Person to Show HIV Symptoms.

Published

3 days ago

December 21, 2024

1oo9t

In most situations, the first HIV symptoms show up 2–4 weeks after a person is exposed to the virus, but in certain circumstances, they might take months or even years to manifest.

HIV is the name of the virus that causes the illness of the same name. AIDS, a lethal disease brought on by a person’s immune system being significantly weakened, is its last stage.

Blood, breast milk, and sexual fluids are all ways that HIV can transmit. According to research, 94% of HIV infections in 2015 were caused by sexual contact…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

initial signs of HIV

HIV infection does not always result in immediate symptoms. It takes between two and four weeks for HIV symptoms to manifest.

Sometimes symptoms won’t show up for months or even years.

Timeline

HIV is categorized by doctors into three stages.

Acute HIV infection in Stage 1

A person with HIV exhibits specific symptoms when they are first infected. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Fatigue, muscle aches, rashes, headaches, sore throats, enlarged lymph nodes, joint discomfort, night sweats, and diarrhea are some of the symptoms.

A credible source claims that some of these symptoms are more likely to materialize than others. The likelihood of each of the symptoms is mentioned above in decreasing order.

HIV infection in stage 2 is ongoing.

The following are signs of a chronic HIV infection, according to certain studies, says a dependable source: yeast infection in the vagina and oral hairy leukoplakia, which results in white, scaly areas on the tongue. Possible diagnoses include shingles, neuropathy, cervical dysplasia, and the blood clotting condition idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura.

The person’s immune system will suffer considerably if this stage continues. Their body will have a harder time fighting off infections and other illnesses as a result.

3.AIDS in Stage

AIDS manifests when a person’s CD4 cell count is significantly decreased as a result of HIV infection.

White blood cells called T cells, sometimes referred to as CD4 cells, are one type. They serve as the body’s defense against harmful microorganisms. These cells become dysfunctional as a result of HIV infection.

READ FULL STORY HERE>>...CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>