Gut microbiome Archive

Bacteria, parasites, and viruses can all cause food poisoning. Proper handling, cooking, and storage of food help reduce the chances of an infection. If you get food poisoning, it usually can be treated at home by replenishing lost fluids and electrolytes.

Naturally fermented foods have been getting the attention of health experts because they contain beneficial probiotics that may help strengthen your gut biome — the bacteria and microorganisms in your digestive tract.

A digestive enzyme supplement can be helpful for people who have difficulty digesting certain foods, but taking one to treat a condition such as heartburn may or may not provide any relief.

An elevated GGT result can have several explanations, from supplements and pain relievers to underlying liver conditions.

Compared with regular yogurt, Greek yogurt delivers double the protein with fewer carbs—but also less calcium. Both types provide probiotics and are generally easier to digest than other dairy products. Look for unflavored versions or those with fewest added sugars, and limit saturated fat.

One reason people eat yogurt is because it contains probiotics — beneficial bacteria and yeasts that improve digestion, provide protection from dangerous organisms, and boost the immune system. But not everyone likes the taste or texture of yogurt, so here are some other foods that offer the same benefits.

More than half of US adults over 60 have diverticulosis, a condition where part of the wall of the colon bulges outward and forms tiny pouches. Diverticulosis does not cause symptoms, but if a pouch becomes inflamed or infected it becomes diverticulitis, which can be mild or more serious.

Discover what bilirubin is, why levels rise on blood tests, and how liver, bile ducts, or red blood cells can each play a role in hyperbilirubinemia.