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In recent times, an emerging area of interest is the use of dietary supplements for treating signs of Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). One such supplement is L-theanine, an amino acid in food sources like tea and mushrooms. Some research studies claim that L-theanine may help manage ADHD by improving focus and attention and decreasing impulsivity. While there is a need for more conclusive and larger-scale studies, this is an exciting area of research worth exploring.
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that leads to difficulties in staying attentive and focused, resisting temptations, and following instructions.
ADHD is often diagnosed in childhood, before the age of 12.
ADHD can lead to issues with social interactions, academic performance, and general behavioral challenges.
There are three major types of ADHD.
L-theanine is an amino acid found in some plant and fungal sources.
Green tea contains about 50% of this amino acid and is its largest dietary source.
A 200 ml cup of black tea has up to 25 mg of L-theanine, and Xerocomus badius, a type of mushroom, is also L-theanine-rich.
L-theanine has various health benefits, such as the following.
One of the significant benefits of L-theanine seems to be its ability to improve focus and attention span, which could help alleviate ADHD symptoms.
L-theanine affects the brain in two significant ways.
Glutamate is a brain chemical that enhances memory and learning.
L-theanine acts as a glutamate reuptake inhibitor in the brain.
Studies often link low glutamate levels with the risk of Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s Disease.
A glutamate reuptake inhibitor prevents the reabsorption of glutamate, ensuring enough is available for circulation.
The Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) receptors act opposite to glutamate by controlling the nerve cells from sending or receiving signals.
By slowing down certain functions in the brain, these GABA (A) receptors can reduce stress and anxiety, calm the brain, and improve sleep.
L-theanine affects the functioning of the GABA (A) receptors, offering a protective effect on neurons.
Over the last couple of decades, researchers have explored the idea of using L-theanine to target the signs of ADHD.
fMRI scans of people with ADHD have shown changes in the regions of the brain that control distraction, attention, and cognition.
L-theanine emerges as a promising supplement for ADHD management, enhancing memory, attention, and alertness through its impact on neurotransmitters and brain wave activity.
Research highlights its potential when combined with caffeine, showing improved cognitive performance and mood, with effects noticeable within an hour of ingestion.
L-theanine may also improve the circulation of glutamate and GABA in the brain, thereby improving memory and attention span.
This amino acid may further help control alpha brain waves, which can keep the person in a state of alertness.
L-theanine can also regulate sleep, which can further help in ADHD management.
While the existing studies provide a positive outlook, further research is necessary to fully validate its effectiveness.
Individuals considering L-theanine for ADHD should consult with healthcare providers to tailor the supplement to their specific needs, ensuring an effective and personalized approach to managing ADHD symptoms.
Yes. Research claims that L-theanine acts as a brain relaxant by helping increase dopamine levels.
Over the past few years, several studies have explored the use of L-theanine for ADHD symptoms in the past.
| Overview | Study Design | Results |
| A 2019 study involving five male children (8–17) years with ADHD | One group was administered with L-theanine (2.5 mg/kg body weight) + caffeine (2.0 mg/kg body weight), and the other, a placebo for 4 separate days. | L-theanine + caffeine improved sustained attention and overall cognitive performance in children with ADHD by reducing mind wandering. |
| A 2008 study involving 9 male and 15 female participants; mean age 21.3 years | The participants were randomly given either a placebo, caffeine, L-theanine, or a combination of both. Everyone took cognitive tests and rated their mood before taking anything, then again 30 and 90 minutes later. | L-theanine alone was associated with more headaches and a decrease in performance on a mental math task. Caffeine improved reaction times and accuracy on certain cognitive tasks and decreased self-reported mental fatigue. The combination of L-theanine and caffeine led to improvements in simple reaction time, working memory, sentence verification accuracy, mood, and reduced feelings of tiredness and headache. |
| A 2011 study evaluating the effect of L-theanine on attention and reaction time response in 18 normal healthy University student volunteers | The participants drank either L-theanine, caffeine, or placebo. The researchers wanted to see how these drinks affected the participants' minds and moods. They checked this by having the participants do attention tests and rating their moods at different times after drinking. They also measured how fast their hearts were beating. | In participants with a high predisposition to anxiety, there was a notable improvement in their attention and reaction time after taking L-theanine, compared to the placebo. Specifically, these individuals showed a marked increase in correct responses and faster reaction times shortly after ingesting L-theanine. L-theanine had little effect on its own, but when combined with caffeine, it led to significant improvements in reaction times, memory tasks, and mood. |
| A 2014 study evaluating the effect of L-theanine in 98 children with ADHD, ages 8-12 years | Participants consumed two chewable tablets twice daily (at breakfast and after school), with each tablet containing 100 mg of L-theanine or identical-tasting chewable placebo for six weeks. | Boys who consumed L-theanine had significantly higher sleep percentage and sleep efficiency scores and a non-significant trend for less activity during sleep compared to those in the placebo group. |
Bottomline
L-theanine has emerged as a potential aid in ADHD management, demonstrating benefits in enhancing cognitive functions, attention, and sleep quality. Research highlights its potential when combined with caffeine, showing improved cognitive performance and mood, with effects noticeable within an hour of ingestion. Optimal dosages of up to 400 mg daily have been well-tolerated in children, suggesting a safe and beneficial role in ADHD therapy. While the existing studies provide a positive outlook, further research is necessary to fully validate its effectiveness. Individuals considering L-theanine for ADHD should consult with healthcare providers to tailor the supplement to their specific needs, ensuring an effective and personalized approach to managing ADHD symptoms.
According to research, up to 400 mg of L-theanine daily was well-tolerated in children aged 8 to 12.
Discussing with one’s healthcare provider before starting any supplement is essential.
Most studies suggest combining L-theanine and caffeine is more effective than using just either.
The calming effects of L-theanine could kick in as early as 40-60 minutes post ingestion.
Studies suggest taking the supplement for at least four weeks to experience its effects on stress, cognition, focus, and memory span.
The best time to take L-theanine depends on what it is prescribed for. It takes about 30-40 minutes to take effect. If it is for sleep, it is best to take it around an hour before bedtime.
Generally, however, L-theanine is regarded as safe to be taken at any time of the day.
Your medical practitioner should be able to offer the best advice on this.
All children who were a part of L-theanine and ADHD studies were eight years or older. The effect of the supplement on younger children is unknown.
It isn’t clear if L-theanine is safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
There is no cure for ADHD currently, but management options are available. The following are some of the management options for the condition.
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https://www.healthline.com/health/l-theanine
Deep within every cell of your body lies a hidden language written in a microscopic script. This complex code, meticulously crafted to control everything from your eye color to your vulnerability to disease, is the essence of life itself – DNA. But, the secrets of DNA extend beyond its role as a blueprint. How are its building blocks arranged? How do they interact to form the complex structure that stores and transmits genetic information? What happens when these building blocks come together to create proteins? Let's explore these questions and learn more about how amazing DNA is.
DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), often described as the blueprint of life, is a fundamental molecule found in every cell of living organisms.
It contains the instructions needed for an organism to develop, survive, and reproduce.
Stored within the cell nucleus, DNA is organized into structures known as chromosomes.
These chromosomes are like instruction manuals, each containing a specific segment of DNA crucial for various functions and characteristics of the organism.
DNA carries the instructions for building proteins.
These proteins are responsible for everything from building tissues and organs to carrying out essential functions like metabolism and respiration.
Each DNA sequence that serves as a set of instructions to produce a protein is recognized as a gene.
Genes only make up 1 percent of the entire DNA sequence; the remaining 99 percent of DNA sequences are involved in the complex regulation of when, how, and in what quantity proteins are produced.
This control system ensures that the body functions precisely and efficiently.
The building blocks of DNA are called nucleotides or bases. These sit next to each other, forming strands of DNA. You can envision this as beads strung together to form a chain.
In the case of DNA, there are about 3 billion beads.
There are four types of nucleotides, each with a unique structure:
A and G belong to a class called purines, and G and C belong to pyrimidines.
The arrangement of these bases along the DNA strand forms the genetic code, the language of life.
This code is written in three-letter words called codons, each specifying a particular amino acid.
Amino acids are essential elements that serve as the fundamental building blocks of proteins. Their precise arrangement determines the protein's shape and function.
There are 3 main types of building blocks in DNA:
1. Phosphate group:
2. Sugar molecule (deoxyribose):
3. Nitrogenous base:
The sequence of nitrogenous bases in DNA decides the genetic code, which encodes the instructions for building molecules like proteins.
The number of building blocks in DNA differs among organisms and chromosomes.
In humans, there are about 3 billion building blocks per cell, spread across 23 pairs of chromosomes, each having a different amount, ranging from 50 million to 250 million.
For instance, a bacterium called Carsonella ruddii has the smallest genome, containing only 160 thousand building blocks.
The double helix characterizes DNA's structural makeup. DNA consists of two linked strands forming a helix, resembling a twisted ladder.
Every strand has a backbone of alternating sugar (deoxyribose) and phosphate groups, with bases (A, T, C, G) attached to the sugars.
Chemical bonds between complementary bases (adenine with thymine, cytosine with guanine) connect the two strands, giving rise to the distinctive double-helix shape.
This structure encodes information for building and operating living systems.
Proteins consist of amino acids connected together by peptide bonds to create a polypeptide chain.
With 20 different amino acids, each with unique properties, DNA provides instructions for assembling them in a specific order.
Gene expression, the process of making proteins from DNA instructions, involves two steps:
Peptide bonds then join the amino acids, forming a polypeptide chain that folds into a specific shape, creating a protein.
DNA was discovered through the work of many scientists over time.
In the 1860s, Johann Friedrich Miescher, a Swiss chemist, first found a substance in white blood cells, later known as DNA.
Albrecht Kossel, a German biochemist, identified this substance as deoxyribonucleic acid in 1881 and discovered its five main components.
The theory that chromosomes carry genetic information from parents to children was proposed in the early 1900s by Walter Sutton and Theodor Boveri.
Finally, in the 1950s, James Watson and Francis Crick famously determined DNA's double-helix structure.
Each of these scientists contributed to our understanding of DNA as the blueprint of life.
DNA holds the instructions for building and operating living organisms, serving as the blueprint of life.
It's made up of smaller units called nucleotides, each consisting of a sugar molecule, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.
Four nitrogenous bases exist: A, T, G, and C. These bases pair up in specific ways (A with T, G with C) to form the famous double helix structure.
DNA's code is written in three-letter words called codons, each specifying a particular amino acid – the building blocks of proteins.
The number of building blocks in DNA varies among organisms, with humans having around 3 billion per cell.
DNA plays a crucial role in development, survival, reproduction, and passing traits to offspring.
https://www.genome.gov/about-genomics/fact-sheets/Deoxyribonucleic-Acid-Fact-Sheet
https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/understanding/basics/chromosome/
https://www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary/Nucleotide
https://www.yourgenome.org/stories/the-discovery-of-dna/
https://www.ashg.org/discover-genetics/building-blocks/
https://www.nature.com/scitable/definition/codon-155/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/biochemistry-genetics-and-molecular-biology/nitrogenous-base
https://www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary/Genome
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK218247/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17038615/
https://www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary/Double-Helix
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https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK26829/
Mutations within the MTHFR gene can unexpectedly impact children's health, leading to various unforeseen challenges. This gene is crucial for properly breaking down homocysteine, an amino acid that needs to be kept at safe levels in the bloodstream. This delicate balance can be disrupted when MTHFR gene mutations occur, potentially resulting in various health issues. Parents must know how these genetic variations might influence their child's well-being. Could specific physical abnormalities, developmental delays, or behavioral concerns be linked to an MTHFR mutation? What symptoms should you watch for, and how can you best support a child affected by this genetic change? This article explores the essential aspects of MTHFR mutations, from the genetic details to the possible health implications. Stay with us as we uncover the signs, symptoms, and steps you can take to manage this condition effectively.
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MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) is a vital enzyme that maintains a healthy balance of homocysteine in the blood by converting excess of it to a safer amino acid called methionine.
Mutations in the MTHFR gene can make this enzyme less effective, potentially causing health problems.
Genetics of MTHFR mutations:
We all inherit two copies of the MTHFR gene, one from each biological parent. So, you can have the following possible combinations:
Common MTHFR variants:
Two common types of MTHFR mutations exist:
Mutations in the MTHFR gene can affect children in various ways. Common symptoms include:
Note: Having an MTHFR mutation does not guarantee that a child will experience all or any of these symptoms. These symptoms can also be indicative of other conditions. Always consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
Alterations in the MTHFR gene can lead to health problems. Some symptoms include:
Crucial reminder: Having an MTHFR gene change doesn't mean you'll get these conditions. Other factors like lifestyle, environment, and medical history matter, too.
A homocysteine blood test can help identify the presence of MTHFR mutations.
Elevated levels could indicate a mutated MTHFR gene.
However, please note that even with MTHFR gene mutations, homocysteine levels may still be normal. In this case, no medical intervention may be required.
The symptoms mentioned above can also indicate a possible MTHFR mutation.
A genetic test focusing on the MTHFR and other methylation genes can also help identify variants or mutations that could impact the enzyme functioning.
MTHFR testing can be done through a simple DNA cheek swab, saliva test, or blood sample.
Some companies also allow users to upload their existing DNA raw data file to provide the MTHFR and Methylation status.
Hand-picked Article For You: Genetic Methylation Test In 2024: The Where, How, & Why
*reports are generated only using existing DNA raw data. xcode does not ship out any DNA kits
Research on the relationship between the MTHFR gene mutation and various health conditions in children reveals several common observations:
These findings show the importance of considering MTHFR mutations in children with these conditions.
Early detection and appropriate management strategies, including folate supplementation, may help mitigate associated risks and improve outcomes.
Limited research suggests a potential connection between MTHFR deficiency and ADHD.
A recent study highlights the case of two biological siblings diagnosed with ADHD and autism. They exhibited improvement in symptoms after starting folate supplementation alongside traditional psychopharmacological treatment.
MTHFR is an essential enzyme associated with various psychiatric mental health illnesses.
Testing for MTHFR deficiency, detectable through bloodwork or a cheek swab, is not routinely performed due to limited provider awareness and cost concerns. This oversight may result in undiagnosed and untreated deficiencies.
Supplementation with folate, an over-the-counter treatment option for individuals lacking in MTHFR, has shown potential benefits.
However, there is limited evidence regarding the effectiveness of folate supplementation in conjunction with psychotropic medications for ADHD.
MTHFR gene variations during pregnancy can affect folate processing, an essential nutrient for fetal development.
While not a guarantee, these variations might increase the risk of birth defects like neural tube defects and preeclampsia.
However, folic acid supplements significantly reduce these risks. Even with MTHFR variations, folic acid (400 mcg daily, CDC recommendation) ensures enough usable folate for healthy development.
Testing for MTHFR mutations isn't routinely recommended (ACMG) because focusing on adequate folic acid intake is most effective. Discuss any MTHFR concerns with your doctor and start folic acid, ideally before conception.
Scientific evidence suggests that MTHFR deficiency follows an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern. You typically need two copies of the variant gene, one inherited from each parent.
The study focused on a family with a child with severe MTHFR deficiency symptoms. Genetic testing identified a new mutation in the MTHFR gene.
Importantly, this mutation was present in both copies (homozygous) in the child, meaning they inherited it from both parents.
This finding supports autosomal recessive inheritance, where two variant copies are needed for the condition.
MTHFR mutations (or changes) can travel through families because we inherit one MTHFR gene from each parent.
Everyone has two copies, and changes can occur in either or both genes.
If a close relative or parent has an MTHFR change, the chances of inheriting the same variant increase.
This risk becomes even higher when both parents carry a change, raising the possibility of a child inheriting a homozygous MTHFR change (mutations in both copies).
This autosomal recessive inheritance pattern explains why MTHFR mutations can be more prevalent within families.
Many children with MTHFR gene variations can benefit from targeted dietary adjustments and support for a healthy gut. Here's how:
Targeted nutrients:
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Supporting gut health:
Dietary folate recommendations:
Here's a guide for recommended daily folate intake based on age:
Focusing on these dietary adjustments and supporting a healthy gut can effectively manage many symptoms associated with MTHFR polymorphisms in children.
Due to unique vitamin processing, children with MTHFR changes might require specific nutritional support.
"Highly absorbable" forms like methylated folate and B12 are often recommended to optimize absorption.
B6, choline, betaine, and magnesium may further support methylation processes.
Consulting a healthcare professional is essential for creating personalized supplement plans, determining dosages, and addressing any medication interactions.
Doctors diagnose MTHFR variations through a combination of methods. These include reviewing your medical history, assessing your current experiences (symptoms), and performing a physical examination.
A blood test might also be recommended to check homocysteine levels, as abnormalities can point toward MTHFR issues.
However, genetic testing is the most definitive way to confirm an MTHFR mutation.
MTHFR mutations can significantly impact a child's health by disrupting homocysteine breakdown. This can lead to various issues, such as physical abnormalities, developmental delays, and behavioral concerns.
Early detection is key. Recognizing symptoms like respiratory problems, immune issues, mental health struggles, and learning difficulties can significantly improve management and outcomes.
Diagnosis involves reviewing family history, analyzing symptoms, and potentially using genetic testing and blood tests.
Management involves dietary adjustments, targeted supplements (L-methylfolate, B vitamins), and gut health support (probiotics, nutrients).
Consulting doctors ensures personalized plans and avoids medication interactions.
By understanding and proactively managing MTHFR mutations, parents can help their children grow.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326181
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10106103
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5766142
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Emerging research suggests that Alzheimer's might actually be a form of diabetes that affects the brain, earning it the nickname "Type 3 Diabetes." This intriguing connection opens up new possibilities for understanding and managing one of the most challenging diseases of our time. This article explores the fascinating link between type 3 diabetes, dementia, and Alzheimer's and provides tips to prevent type 3 diabetes.
Type 3 diabetes has no proper definition and is currently not an “official” medical term. Most refer to this as type 2's progression to Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers propose that Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) might represent "type 3 diabetes" because of similarities with diabetes in terms of brain insulin resistance and deficiency.
Thus, it can be called "Diabetes of the Brain." Here, the brain cells or neurons get starved of glucose, which causes a reduction in memory, judgment, reasoning, and insight, which characterizes Alzheimer's.
It is not the same as type 3c diabetes, which is caused by pancreatic damage.
Causes:
The potential risk factors that may cause type 3 diabetes, as per a 2020 study, comprise:
Symptoms:
The type 3 diabetes symptoms are similar to those of Alzheimer's and other dementia types, including:
It's important to note that while some memory and habit changes are normal with aging, ongoing and notable alterations could signal type 3 diabetes.
Type 3c diabetes occurs due to damage in the pancreas that results from multiple factors.
It occurs due to several conditions that may impact the pancreas, like cystic fibrosis, pancreatic cancer, chronic pancreatitis, acute pancreatitis, or hemochromatosis.
Type 3c diabetes may also develop from the removal of the pancreas for some damage. Its common symptoms are:
Type 3 diabetes occurs when the brain neurons fail to respond to insulin, which is crucial for basic tasks like learning and memory.
Researchers state that this absence of insulin has a direct link with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia’s cognitive decline.
They believe Alzheimer's disease is diabetes in the brain that slowly erases memory through alteration of the gray matter.
The uncontrollable rise in blood sugar levels results in inflammation that can damage the brain cells, leading to Alzheimer’s and dementia.
The link between type 3 diabetes, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease is still under study. But the three have a strong connection.
Managing blood sugar levels through lifestyle changes and a balanced diet can be crucial for reducing the risks of developing such conditions.
Some members of the scientific community propose terming Alzheimer’s as “type 3 diabetes” because of the shared molecular and cellular pathways between the two conditions.
In fact, studies suggest that insulin deficiency and resistance are seen as early indicators of neurodegeneration (damage to brain cells) in Alzheimer’s.
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Dementia:
Type 3 diabetes:
Key Differences
| Feature | Dementia | Type 3 diabetes (theory) |
| Recognition | Established medical condition | Proposed cause of Alzheimer's |
| Specificity | Umbrella term for cognitive decline | Insulin resistance in brain cells |
| Underlying causes | Various (e.g., Alzheimer's, vascular dementia) | Specifically linked to Alzheimer's |
| Treatment | Varies depending on the cause | No specific treatment yet |
The similarities:
Type 3 diabetes, linked to Alzheimer's, can affect anyone, but various factors contribute to the risk:
Type 3 diabetes, associated with Alzheimer's, lacks a single test. Doctors diagnose it using various methods and suggest treatment plans addressing both conditions.
Diagnosis
Treatment
Early action is crucial to reduce possible harm. Here's an overview of treatment choices:
Important note:
Before initiating any treatment for type 3 diabetes and Alzheimer's, seek guidance from your doctor to ensure personalized and safe management.
There isn't currently any research on reversing type 3 diabetes because it's not a recognized medical diagnosis.
However, the theory behind it focuses on insulin resistance in the brain, and insulin resistance can improve in some cases.
Incorporating a diet low in sugar and processed carbohydrates, alongside weight loss efforts, might enhance overall insulin sensitivity, which could extend to brain function.
Research suggests specific diets may help brain health, but there's no proven food or diet to prevent type 3 diabetes (linked to Alzheimer's via insulin resistance).
Here are two promising dietary patterns:
Why it matters: These diets might help by:
Remember:
Type 3 diabetes is a suggested hypothesis that connects Alzheimer's disease to insulin resistance in the brain. It's not a recognized medical diagnosis.
Both Alzheimer's and type 3 diabetes (theory) involve memory and thinking problems.
Risk factors for type 3 diabetes include diet, stress, genetics, and lack of physical activity.
There's no specific diagnosis or treatment for type 3 diabetes, but managing Alzheimer's may involve medications, lifestyle changes, and managing mood swings.
While no single food prevents type 3 diabetes, the Mediterranean and MIND diets might promote brain health.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with exercise, sleep, and stress management is crucial for brain health.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7246646
https://www.healthline.com/health/type-3-diabetes
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/145855
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/chronic-pancreatitis
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/acute-pancreatitis
https://www.diabetes.org.uk/diabetes-the-basics/related-conditions/haemochromatosis-diabetes
https://www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/complications/hypos
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https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22206-insulin-resistance
Did you know that during World War I, soldiers who suffered from diarrhea found relief in an unlikely remedy—carrot soup? Prof. Ernst Moro's experiments found that carrot soup decreased the death rate of babies suffering from diarrhea by nearly 50%. Fast forward to today, with an abundance of food options, it can be really confusing to decide what to put on your plate when dealing with an upset stomach. Many people follow the BRAT diet for diarrhea relief, but could there be more effective options? Interestingly, some believe peanut butter can also help manage diarrhea due to its high protein and healthy fat content, which may help firm up stools and provide essential nutrients during recovery. This article aims to explore the efficacy of the BRAT diet and whether peanut butter is a good addition to your diet when dealing with diarrhea.
The word BRAT is an acronym for the foods included in this diet:
The BRAT diet is a low-fiber diet consisting of only simple carbohydrates that is hypothesized to treat an upset stomach.
Generally, high-fiber diets are recommended to keep your gut healthy.
However, a low-fiber diet may help you recover when dealing with an upset stomach.
It might be easier to digest and stop diarrhea by making stool firmer.
Although the BRAT diet has existed for a long time, no scientific evidence suggests it works.
Doctors now think that this diet might be nutritionally deficient and can do more harm than good.
Those who promote the BRAT diet claim that it helps treat diarrhea for the following reasons:
The BRAT diet has long been recommended as the go-to diet to help soothe an upset stomach.
The foods included in this diet are more accessible to digest and will not irritate an already upset stomach.
Some studies show that bananas and white rice might be beneficial in treating diarrhea.
However, doctors don’t always recommend the BRAT diet because it is not nutritious.
Most foods included in the BRAT diet are low in nutrition and might prolong healing.
Doctors instead recommend eating a nutritionally balanced meal that will help you recover faster without irritating your gut.
Peanut butter is a low-fiber food that can help treat and manage diarrhea.
It is, in fact, recommended by the IFFGD (International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders) as one of the bland foods to be incorporated into the BRAT diet to avoid undernourishment.
A small amount of peanut butter can help increase nutrient content and electrolytes.
However, it is also one of the most common foods that cause allergies.
If you have a peanut allergy, consuming peanut butter when you suffer from diarrhea can aggravate your symptoms.
Some common symptoms of peanut allergy are redness, hives, swelling or itching around your mouth and throat, diarrhea, and shortness of breath.
Consult your doctor to know if it is safe for you to include peanut butter in your BRAT diet.
When you are not feeling well, you probably won’t want to spend too much time cooking a complete meal in the kitchen.
That’s why we recommend starting with snack items that are low effort and can be easily put together.
When dealing with diarrhea, it's important to choose foods that are easy on the digestive system and can help firm up stools. Peanut butter, with its high protein and healthy fat content, can be a helpful addition to a diet aimed at managing diarrhea. Here are some peanut butter recipes that are gentle on the stomach and can aid in recovery:
Ingredients:
Instructions:
This smoothie is easy to digest and provides essential nutrients like potassium from the banana and protein from the peanut butter.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Oatmeal is a good source of soluble fiber, which can help to absorb excess water in the intestines and firm up stool.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Whole-grain toast provides fiber, while peanut butter adds protein and healthy fats, making this a balanced option for breakfast or a snack.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Rice cakes are bland and easy to digest, making them a good base for peanut butter.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Apples provide fiber and vitamins, while peanut butter adds protein and healthy fats.
While peanut butter can be beneficial, it is important to consume it in moderation, as it is high in fat and can be difficult to digest in large quantities. Always opt for natural peanut butter without added sugars or hydrogenated fats. If you have a nut allergy or sensitivity, avoid peanut butter and consult with a healthcare provider for alternative options.
https://research.med.psu.edu/oncology-nutrition-exercise/patient-guides/diarrhea
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6627159
Ever wondered why your gut is often called your "second brain"? It's because your digestive system does much more than just processing food. It’s a powerhouse that influences your overall health and immune system. Enter prebiotics and probiotics. These two food groups play a crucial role in supporting the good bacteria in your gut. But what's the difference between them? It’s easy to get them mixed up, but understanding their distinct roles can help you make better choices for your health. This article discusses prebiotics and probiotics in-depth, delving into how they work together to keep your gut—and you—healthy.
Probiotics are foods or supplements containing live bacteria that increase the population of good bacteria in your gut.
Examples of probiotics include yogurt, sauerkraut, kombucha, etc.
Prebiotics are foods, usually high in fiber, that feed the good microbes in your gut and make them grow well.
They are used to improve the population of good gut bacteria.
Common examples of prebiotics include fiber-rich foods, such as whole grains, bananas, onions, soybeans, and garlic.
Both prebiotics and probiotics benefit the gut.
Prebiotics and probiotics work together in the gut to keep the population of good bacteria high and protect against any potentially harmful bacteria.
Consuming probiotics rich in good gut bacteria increases their population, while the prebiotics ensure the good gut bacteria are getting enough food to continue multiplying.
This way, probiotics, and prebiotics ensure a healthy balance of good gut bacteria.
There are several benefits of taking probiotics and prebiotics.
Benefits of probiotics:
It is important to note that adequate research is lacking to prove the long-term benefits of prebiotics.
Since both probiotics and prebiotics are essential for good gut health, it is easy to get confused between the two.
Let’s break down their differences:
| Prebiotics | Probiotics | |
| What are they? | Indigestible but fermentable ingredients rich in fiber | Live microorganisms |
| What do they do? | Feeds the good gut bacteria | Adds to the existing good gut bacteria/replenishes good gut bacteria |
| Types | - Fructans, - Galacto-oligosaccharides, - Starch and glucose-derived oligosaccharides, - Pectic oligosaccharides, - Non-carbohydrate oligosaccharides | - Bifidobacteria animals - Bifidobacteria breve - Bifidobacteria lactis - Bifidobacteria longum - Lactobacillus acidophilus - Lactobacillus reuteri |
| Main health benefit | Increases the number and improves the activity of probiotics | Improves the gut health of the host |
| Side effects | Increased gas production, bloating, and bowel movements | Headaches, digestive troubles, allergies, possible sepsis in immunocompromised people |
Prebiotics and probiotics are both essential for the body.
Prebiotics help probiotics deliver optimal gut health benefits
While they serve different functions in the gut, they share one common goal: maintaining a balance of healthy gut bacteria.
While prebiotics and probiotics are largely safe for consumption, they have some drawbacks.
It is advisable to speak to your doctor before significantly increasing your intake of prebiotics and probiotics.
Since prebiotics and probiotics support healthy gut function, you can take them together.
If you wish to take prebiotic and probiotic supplements, it is best to consult your doctor.
The general rule you must follow is to take these supplements correctly.
Always check for the recommended dosage on the package label and follow the instructions of your healthcare practitioner.
Did you know your gut microbiome is as unique as your fingerprint?
It’s true!
Your gut microbiome also changes over time- from birth and over the years, depending upon the environment you are exposed to.
You may need to take a pre-and/or a probiotic if you:
Include a list of nutrient-rich foods containing probiotics and prebiotics to maintain a healthy balance of good bacteria and help gut function.
However, always consult your doctor before doing so.
Your doctor may prescribe prebiotic and probiotic supplements for your condition if they think it may disrupt the balance of healthy gut bacteria.
If you are experiencing one or more of the following symptoms, you may need prebiotics:
They are generally safe to consume and cause minimal side effects.
Some risks of consuming them are:
Here are a few exciting and fun ways to add prebiotics and probiotics to your diet:
