Digestive
Avocado is a fruit known as Persea americana, which contains a large concentration of minerals (phosphorous/magnesium/potassium) and lipids.1 The avocado tree finds its origins in tropical and/or subtropical climates with the largest producing countries including Dominican Republic, Mexico, Colombia, Peru, and Indonesia.1(381) Furthermore, the avocado industry is predicted to rise at a compound annual growth…
Special diets for special needs acknowledge the concept of bio-individuality, and the preference to mold food choices based on the signs, symptoms, goals, and health outcomes of each individual. One diet of particular interest is that of Mediterranean origin, otherwise known as the Mediterranean diet (MD). Such a method of eating is characterized by generous…
Small intestinal fungal overgrowth (SIFO) is a condition characterized by an excessive population of fungal microorganisms inhabiting the small intestine (SI).1 SIFO exhibits a broad range of symptoms to include gas, diarrhea (leading to nutrient deficiencies), belching, indigestion, and bloating.1(1) Left unmitigated, such symptoms can negatively effect individuals’ quality of life and health. However, detection…
Poor stomach acid (high pH), otherwise known as hypochlorhydria, has been responsible for reduced vitamin and mineral absorption, reduced protein digestion, and increased food allergies.1 Furthermore, low pH (high acidity) is a critical defense mechanism against pathogens consumed from food. High pH can be attributed to several causes including the advanced age, bariatric surgery, and the…
A whole foods paradigm might be thought of as a conscientious distinction and way of eating from that of processed food purchases and consumption. Whole foods can be defined as plant and animal foods that are raised and nourished from their natural environments, while remaining in their original forms, and consumed unaltered.1 Conversely, processed foods…
Potassium (K) is a micronutrient that is a constituent of a larger body of electrolytes which includes sodium (Na), chloride (Cl), phosphorus (P), and calcium (Ca).1Such electrolytes work as an aggregate to facilitate movement of nutrients in a cell, pH balance, nerve conduction, and fluid balance.1 Although K deficiencies can emanate from sweating, imbalances with…
Organic agriculture can be defined as a means of production that promotes agro-ecosystem health, to include biological activity, biological cycles, and biodiversity.1 Promotion of said goals is achieved by implementing off-farm inputs, and mechanical/biological methods instead of synthetic materials.1(704) Furthermore, evidence has suggested that such practices are correlated to improved health. As such, the following…
Free radicals (FRs) are generated during normal metabolic processes in addition to exposure to pathophysiological states.1 Such species are unstable and induce unfavorable cellular changes, if left unchecked, to include DNA damage; a destructive process associated with the genesis of cancer.1(317) Antioxidants are substances that can control the effects and propagation of FRs thereby down-regulating…
Crohn’s disease (CD) is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) characterized by chronic relapse and inflammation along the intestine.1 CD is an autoimmune disease exhibiting an exaggerated immune response followed by a lowered tolerance towards food antigens and bacteria native to the gut.1(3899) Such processes eventually manifest as a chronic inflammatory response1(3899) Other factors also contribute to…
The intestinal wall, as has been discussed in previous posts, is composed of intestinal epithelium forming a semipermeable barrier preventing entry of pathogens and blocking contact with constituents of the immune system.1 Ultimately, such a system facilitates normal digestion/absorption, immune function, and overall homeostasis. However, disruption to the intestinal barrier can induce unfavorable changes to…