We like to stay on top of the latest news in functional medicine and nutrition. If you do too, you’ll find our monthly, easy-to-digest compilation of research and news articles right here. Check back regularly to find updates, or follow us through our newsletters and social media to ensure you don’t miss any.
Sesame Allergy Underdiagnosed and More Challenging to Avoid
E. coli Strain May Cause Urinary Tract Infection
Stress During First Trimester is a Risk Factor for Adverse Birth Outcomes
Higher BMI Associated with Increased Brain Atrophy
Infant Gut Microbes Predict Temperament – a Human Study
Connecting Gut Microbes and Bone Health
Sesame Allergy Underdiagnosed and More Challenging to Avoid
Sesame allergy is likely more prevalent than previously recognized, with one in three sesame allergy sufferers experiencing anaphylaxis. Food labeling of allergenic foods does not currently require sesame to be listed, yet it is a frequent hidden ingredient in processed foods. In particular, ‘natural flavors’ or ‘spice blends’ on an ingredient list are not required to be declared in full and can contain sesame.
coliStrain May Cause Urinary Tract Infection
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can be miserable. A previously unrecognized cause of UTIs has been uncovered in a recent research study – a particular strain of E. coli that can be found in retail poultry products. This is important because E. colihas not yet been widely recognized as a potential cause of diseases other than diarrhea.
Stress During First Trimester is a Risk Factor for Adverse Birth Outcomes
Stress during pregnancy may be a risk factor for adverse birth outcomes according to newly published research. In particular, the authors looked at the effects of moving home during the first trimester of pregnancy, which they found to increase the risk of low birth weight and preterm birth. Low birth weight has been associated with an increased risk of metabolic diseases including type II diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure.
Higher BMI Associated with Increased Brain Atrophy
Being overweight may accelerate brain aging by as much as 10 years, according to new research. This effect seems greatest in those under age 65 and suggests that weight loss may be an important factor for brain protection. In Functional Medicine we also recognize and address many more factors that affect brain function – find out more in our Functional Memory Rx center.
Infant Gut Microbes Predict Temperament – a Human Study
The types of bacteria in your infant’s gut are associated with temperament traits, according to recent research. In our clinic, we frequently witness the effects of gut bacteria on mood and behavior. However, this research is important since it is a human study, and one conducted in infants – a population notoriously under-researched. The authors found that increased Bifidobacterium species in the gut was associated with higher frequency of positive emotions – expressions of happiness and delight.
Connecting Gut Microbes and Bone Health
Gut microbes and a healthy gut barrier are protective against bone loss. Connections between the gut microbiome and bone health may seem surprising, but research has shown that there indeed a strong influence. Animal studies have shown improved bone density following an intervention of probiotics. Similarly, exposing animals to bacterial infections in the gut has resulted in bone erosion. Human data using L. reuteri probiotics and, separately, fiber prebiotics also shows favorable impacts in protecting against bone loss in older women. The full story in The Scientist is well worth a read!
