High Protein Diet for IBS
Mouse Studies Reveal Protein Reduces Gut Inflammation
Research Update
High Protein Diet and Gut Inflammation
Headline: Could a protein-rich diet soothe an inflammed gut?
What You Need To Know:
According to a new study by Washington University School of Medicine, a diet high in tryptophan – an amino acid building block of protein – was found to increase the number of immune cells in mice.
Mice with healthy guts had an abundance of bacteria known as Lactobacillus reuteri, which supports the growth of immune cells. When the mice were fed more tryptophan the number of immune cells also increased. These immune cells are known to play a role in reducing inflammation in the body.
The gut bacteria of humans also contain L. reuteri, but it is not yet known if it serves the same function in relation to the growth of immune cells.
Dietitian Joanna McMillan PhD says that although this study is interesting, there is still lots of research that needs to be completed prior to generalizing these results to people.
The human microbiome in incredibly complex, and there is still much we do not understand about how different strains of bacteria function in different people. It is unlikely that one specific type of bacteria will hold all the answers to any one condition. The overall functioning of the microbiome and balance of the bacteria is what we should be focusing on.
Another important difference between humans and mice that needs to be considered is that in humans, tryptophan is digested in the small intestine, while the majority of our gut bacteria (including L. reuteri) live in the large intestine.
This means that the tryptophan-containing protein we ingest wouldn’t likely make it into the large intestine where the L.reuteri could use it to stimulate growth of inflammation reducing immune cells.
Related Links:
3 Things You Need to Know About Your Gut
Prebiotics and Probiotics: The Answer to Your IBS?
Protein Packed Smoothie Recipes
Histamine Intolerance and Irritable Bowel Syndrome
FODMAP Update
New Low FODMAP Fibre Supplement
Headline: Prebiotic Fibregum is Low in FODMAPs
What You Need to Know:
Fibre is a big concern, especially for those with IBS and IBD. We are constantly told we don’t get enough, but figuring out how much fibre you can tolerate from different food sources without causing a symptom flare up can be hard. Appropriate fibre intake is important for the maintenance of a healthy weight, optimal gut health, and regular bowel movements.
There are many different fibre supplements on the market to help us up our intake. Fibregum is a product line made from 100% acacia gum – a natural gum from the sap of acacia trees. This supplement may be of specific interest to those with IBS and IBD, as it has been certified Low FODMAP by FODMAP Friendly!
Fibregum is a prebiotic fibre which can help support the growth and maintenance of healthy gut bacteria and the production of short chain fatty acids. Short chain fatty acids promote healthy gut tissue by reducing inflammation. Being low in FODMAPs, Fibregum is also tolerated well in the digestive tract, meaning it shouldn’t cause uncomfortable symptoms.
As always, not everyone responds the same way to high and low FODMAP foods, and some people find they are sensitive to gums. It’s best to consult your doctor or Registered Dietitian to determine if a product may be right for you, and remember to track your symptoms and listen to your body when testing out any new supplement.
Related Links:
Sunfiber and IBS: Does Guar Gum Relieve IBS symptoms?
The FODMAP Friendly Certification Program
The first step if you’re looking to improve irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or another digestive disorder or disease, is to understand more about the Low FODMAP diet and if it can help. Download my free eBook to help you better understand this diet and get started implementing simple steps to get rid of symptoms like gas, bloating, pain, diarrhea or constipation related to IBS. Click here to get a copy emailed to you right away.
Media Update
Low FODMAP French Cooking
Headline: FODMAP Health Cookbook: A cookbook inspired by classical French cuisine
What You Need To Know:
FODMAP Health has partnered with the Monash FODMAP team to release a French cuisine themed low FODMAP cookbook.
The creator of FODMAP Health, Elle Joy, suffers from IBS, fructose and lactose malabsorption.
Elle has a true passion for travel and fine-dining around the world. Elle sees food and culture as a great source of enrichment in her life, and she wants to bring this same joy to others who are suffering from the same conditions as her. Elle’s FODMAP Health brand is all about bringing gourmet food and French culture to a low FODMAP and gluten-free lifestyle.
The cookbook can be purchased online, with three electronic copies provided with each sale. With recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert, the collection is sure to leave you inspired! The book contains 60 recipes certified by Monash University to be low in FODMAPs. Some recipes include: Vanilla and cinnamon rice pudding, chocolate souffle, and double delight carrot and orange cake.
Related Links:
Navigating a Restaurant Menu on the Low FODMAP Diet
Low FODMAP Recipe: Salmon en Papillote
Culinary Basics for Cooking Low FODMAP