A first study of its kind shows that gut microbes could predict how seriously ill a Covid-19 patient might become. In the hopes to identify why some individuals with COVID-19 fare better than others, researchers created a risk score based on blood biomarkers found in severe COVID-19 patients. Scientists found that these biomarkers are linked closely with a core set of gut microbiome characteristics, as well as with increased inflammatory cytokines. COVID-19 is linked closely to the gut. As the virus enters the body, it binds to ACE2 enzymes, which play a large role in regulating intestinal inflammation and gut microbe make-up. COVID-19 patients who experience GI symptoms (diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting) also tend to suffer from a more severe state of the disease, so it makes sense that the gut microbiome and disease severity are strongly associated. MedRxiv Takeaway: Scientists who conducted the research concluded that based on the…
A new study looking at a non-invasive blood assay method to detect early colorectal cancer (CRC) could eventually mean…
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Fresh air and sunlight could be important factors in combating the Coronavirus. Past studies have highlighted the phenomenon called…
COVID-19 possesses a strong GI component. As details on coronavirus symptoms and transmission evolve, it has become clear that…
Maternal exposure to endocrine disrupting chemical (EDC) mixtures are associated with lower IQ at the age of 7 in…
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs – acid blocking medications prescribed for reflux and GERD) are linked to increased rates of…
A 6-month randomized controlled trial investigated various dietary fat levels and their impacts on the gut microbiome. The study…
Antibiotics disrupt flu vaccine success. A study published this fall found that in those who hadn’t had the flu…