New from Dr. Burkhart: Are Fermented Foods Right for You? And new research on juice cleanses, probiotics & anxiety and more.


Amy Burkhart, M.D., R.D.

Top 8 Fermented Foods For Gut Health

But Are Fermented Foods Right For Everyone?

Hi Everyone!

We all know that fermented foods are good for the gut, but which foods are best at helping our gut bacteria thrive? And are fermented foods right for everyone, or should some people avoid these products? See my recent interview with Self Magazine and Glamour UK to learn more.

Recent Nutrition/Gut-Health Related Research

🔴A recent study on DAO deficiency, seen in histamine intolerance, is a reminder that anxiety is a common symptom of histamine intolerance (HIT). While this study used DAO levels (not particularly accurate), it is a reminder that people with HIT often experience episodic anxiety related to their condition.

🔴A new research article in Nature Microbiology identifies over 168 compounds found in food, water, and household compounds that kill beneficial gut bacteria. Here is a simplified take on the topic.

🔴A study earlier this year in the journal Nutrients found that juice cleanses may actually be causing more harm than good to your gut bacteria, altering gut permeability (making your gut more leaky) and increasing inflammation. See a reader-friendly version here.

🔴Probiotics, prebiotics (non-digestible fiber from food that feeds gut bacteria), and synbiotics (a combo of probiotics and prebiotics) were shown in a meta-analysis to help lower rates of depression and anxiety. Don't forget to aim for 25-50 grams of fiber daily!

🔴A fasting mimicking diet improved cardiovascular inflammatory markers when used once a month for 6 months. It also improved the sense of taste and smell (often affected in COVID). While the study was not conducted specifically in post-COVID patients, it would be interesting to see a study done in that population.

Have a great week!- Dr. Burkhart

" When diet is wrong, medicine is of no use. When diet is correct, medicine is of no need" -Ayurvedic proverb

Amy Burkhart MD RD

Dr. Burkhart is one of only two physicians in the U.S. who is also a registered dietitian and board certified in integrative medicine. Thus, she approaches problems from a unique perspective using traditional medicine, nutrition, and integrative medicine. She helps people struggling for answers as well as those looking for a different type of health care. Outside of the office, I write about topics that address health in ways others may not have.”

Read more from Amy Burkhart MD RD

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