SEROVERA® BLOG

Study finds new tool for early detection of bowel disease

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 00:05:00 +0000

Researchers from the University of East Anglia (UEA) have developed a new kind of endoscope to aid the early detection and diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease.

The Confocal Laser Endomicroscope (CLE) contains a powerful microscope which allows clinicians to view the bacteria that are thought to trigger diseases of the bowel such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

"Bacteria within the wall of the gut are already believed to play an important role in the development of inflammatory bowel disease and we now have a powerful new tool for viewing this bacteria during routine colonoscopy," said Prof Alastair Watson.

"This new technique will allow the rapid identification of patients at risk or in the early stages of this common but distressing group of diseases," he added.

The current method of taking biopsies prevents observation of the bacteria's exact location and of the way it interacts with the mucous membrane.

The new endomicroscopy technique, which uses a flourescent dye to highlight the bacteria, allows these exact processes to be viewed at a sub-cellular level during routine colonoscopy. (ANI)

This article is a reprint of http://sify.com/news/study-finds-new-tool-for-early-detection-of-bowel-disease-news-international-kmhpEdebaaf.html The time or date displayed reflects when an article was added to Google News Decemb. 07. 2010

SEROVERA® in Australia

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Sun, 31 Oct 2010 15:23:00 +0000

SEROVERA® is recognized as one of the Fastest Growing AMP Companies globally with our two distribution centers in North America and Europe.

Now SEROVERA® takes a new step in Australia. SEROVERA® mark has been approved and is now a registered trademark with the “Commonwealth of Australia Trade Marks Office.”

*SEROVERA® is already a registered trademark with the “United States Patent and Trademark Office”.

SEROVERA® New Vegetarian Capsules

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Sat, 09 Oct 2010 17:51:00 +0000

SEROVERA® AMP 500 is now using the latest Vegetarian capsules available on the market.

Vcaps Plus capsules are starch-free, gluten-free and contain no additives or preservatives claims. The result is an all natural dosage form that complements any product line.

Vcaps Plus capsules are ideal for meeting the all important consumer preferences, for natural, vegetarian, plant origin products no additives.

But what really makes Vcaps Plus stand out are its unique attributes:

• Exceptional suitability for all types of products, including hygroscopic and moisture-sensitive fills, provides improved stability for sensitive formulations

• Gelatin-like filling performance validated on all major filling equipment - provides high manufacturing yields and efficiencies

• Resistant to cross-linking and therefore suitable for formulations with gelatin cross-linking potential

• Excellent disintegration and dissolution performance

• Elegant, crystal-clear, high-gloss appearance - available in an array of color options to enhance and invigorate your brand

Capsugel products are manufactured to cGMP standards, and a Certificate of Analysis is provided with every product batch.

Diarrhea - Antibiotics - Probiotics

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 17:53:00 +0000

Are you taking Antibiotics?

Antibiotics kill both the bad and good bacterium. Killing the beneficial bacteria in the body can result in diarrhea, cramps, abdominal discomfort and bloating. Eating yogurt or taking a probiotic supplement can help to re-colonize the intestinal tract with good bacteria.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is caused by a lack of the bacterial strain 'Lactobacillus' in the intestines. Recent studies have shown that the use of probiotic supplements can relieve some of the symptoms associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome by replenishing the gut with these necessary bacteria.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease:

Probiotic supplements can relieve the symptoms of intestinal conditions like Inflammatory Bowel Disease, which is an inflammation of the large intestine alone, and Crohn’s disease, which is an inflammation of both the large and small intestines.

Lactose Intolerance:

Sometimes the body cannot tolerate lactose which is the protein found in milk. An intolerance to lactose can result in painful gastrointestinal problems. The use of probiotics can help the body to tolerate the lactose, and therefore digest the milk, by producing the missing enzyme which is the cause of lactose intolerance.

Genito-urinary Problems:

Bacteria which is naturally found in the vagina causes the vagina to be far too acidic for harmful micro-organisms to survive. However, antibiotics and spermicides can cause the vagina to go out of balance and develop yeast infections. The best way to treat this is to apply live natural yogurt to the affected area. This will restore the balance of good bacteria.

SeroLife® is an all new daily probiotic supplement that delivers a boost of "beneficial" bacteria to where your body needs it most — your GI-tract.

Now FREE with your PayPass Club Serovera® with each order!

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live in our digestive tract. Probiotics supplement our body’s natural ecosystem by helping maintain a balance between beneficial bacteria and harmful bacteria.

New European Distribution Center from SEROVERA®

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 01:42:00 +0000

SEROVERA® the global leader in Aloe Mucilaginous Polysaccharides (http://www.serovera.com/), announced that it has opened a new warehouse and distribution center in Europe to service the growing demand for SEROVERA® AMP and SEROLIFE® Probiotics in Europe.

European distribution center expands SEROVERA®'s ability to offer local sales and support services to its fast growing base of customers and prospects in the region. This expansion also relieves customers of the troubles they experience with their local Customs and Duty/Tax centers.

After solidifying its leadership in the US market for several years now, Jean Perrin, president of Teamtrade Inc./Serovera had this to say: "We have seen significant growth in our customer base and the level of demand in our products all over Europe has exploded in the last year. Our international customers will be very pleased to learn that they will pay local freight rates, instead of the exorbitant costs they were incurring from having to ship internationally along with exceptional delivery times."

Their new warehouse and distribution center is located at:

SEROVERA®/Europe Department/Fulfillment Center Kanaalstraat 2 1975 BE Ijmuiden The Netherlands http://www.serovera.eu/

Natural MarketPlace 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 17:06:00 +0000

The Natural Products Association represents more than 10,000 retailers, manufacturers, wholesalers and distributors of natural products, including foods, dietary supplements, and health/beauty aids.

SEROVERA® was present in the Las Vegas TradeShow to make sure our products comply with the latest Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and FDA regulations.

The Natural Products Association, the largest dietary supplement trade association in the United States, has developed GMP standards based upon dialogs with member suppliers, other trade associations, and the FDA.

The Natural Products Association GMPs are a living document and will be updated periodically based upon feedback from consultants, member companies, best quality practices and the FDA.

Mrs C.Perrin / Vice-President, Mrs N.Williams/Customer Account Representative, and Mrs S. Silkman/Director-Key Accounts (top photo)

FDA Good Manufacturing Practices

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 01:23:00 +0000

SEROVERA® at the forefront of FDA Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)

SEROVERA® has always taken a leadership role in promoting FDA quality standards and has developed internal self-regulatory programs for that purpose.

To that end, executives at SEROVERA® will be attending an Advanced Course on the Final FDA GMP Rule for Dietary Supplements at the 2010 Natural MarketPlace, to help further strengthen our stringent requirements for manufacturing, packaging, labeling, and holding of dietary supplements.

The seminar agenda will include:

-Overview of FDA GMPs

-Comprehensive discussion of specific FDA GMP requirements including stablishing and confirming specifications, QC personnel responsibilities, laboratory operations, scientifically valid analytical methods, raw materials and finished product testing requirements, and change control

-Developing GMP-compliant SOPs, master manufacturing and batch production records, and other required documentation

-Qualifying your suppliers and other vendors to ensure quality and consistency in meeting GMP compliance (a hot topic with FDA!)

-Qualifying certificates of analysis to allow for reduced testing of components

-Third-party certification

-How to handle visits from the FDA and discussion of FDA expectations based on recent FDA GMP inspections

-Tips on getting started incorporating new FDA GMP requirements within your company's current GMP systems

-Opportunity for technical question and answer discussion with industry GMP experts

-Group activities regarding establishing regulatory specifications and developing adequate procedures

Possible link between C-sections and celiac disease

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 20:01:00 +0000

Researchers in Germany have found a possible link between celiac disease and Cesarean sections.

Celiac disease is a disorder where eating gluten, a type of protein found in wheat, barley and rye, causes the body's immune system to attack and damage the small intestine.

Researchers in Germany studied children and adolescents with intestinal problems, including Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis and celiac disease. They found that 28 percent of the celiac children were born by Cesarean section, compared to no more than 19 percent of all other groups.

Doctors say many of the children's mothers may have had undiagnosed celiac disease, which can increase the risk of cesarean section.

The study is published online in the journal Pediatrics.

This article is a reprint of http://abclocal.go.com/wls/story?section=news/health&id=7447994
The time or date displayed reflects when an article was added to Google News May 18. 2010

Bowel disorders lead to poor bone health, study finds

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Fri, 14 May 2010 13:49:00 +0000

Women with inflammatory bowel disorders may want to consider further lab testing to see if they are also positive for osteoporosis, as a new study suggests that individuals with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are also more likely to suffer bone breaks.

Researchers found that these common bowel diseases increase a person's risk for breaking a bone, because the disorders make it more difficult for their body to absorb nutrients like protein, calcium and vitamin D that are the key to bone health.

Individuals with these diseases are also at a disadvantage because many of the common drugs used to treat the condition block the body from making the best use of nutrients.

Deficiencies of these nutrients in women can also increase their risk of developing osteoporosis as they age.

Researchers suggested that doctors who are treating individuals with these bowel disorders should also test them for bone health, and start them on treatments to increase the level of these nutrients in their body.

Aspirin raises Crohn's disease risk

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Tue, 04 May 2010 15:06:00 +0000

People who take aspirin regularly for a year or more could be increasing their risk of developing Crohn's disease, says a new study.

The study by University of East Anglia (UEA) will be presented for the first time at the Digestive Disease Week conference in New Orleans.

Crohn's disease is characterized by inflammation and swelling of any part of the digestive system. This can lead to debilitating symptoms and requires patients to take life-long medication. Some patients need surgery and some sufferers have an increased risk of bowel cancer.

Though there are likely to be many causes of the disease, previous work on tissue samples has shown that aspirin can have a harmful effect on the bowel.

Though there are likely to be many causes of the disease, previous work on tissue samples has shown that aspirin can have a harmful effect on the bowel.

The volunteers were all initially well, but by 2004 a small number had developed Crohn's disease. When looking for differences in aspirin use between those who did and did not develop the disease, the researchers discovered that those taking aspirin regularly for a year or more were around five times more likely to develop Crohn's disease.

The study also showed that aspirin use had no effect on the risk of developing ulcerative colitis - a condition similar to Crohn's disease.

"This is early work but our findings do suggest that the regular use of aspirin could be one of many factors which influences the development of this distressing disease in some patients," said lead researcher Dr Andrew Hart of UEA's School of Medicine.

"Aspirin does have many beneficial effects, however, including helping to prevent heart attacks and strokes. I would urge aspirin users to continue taking this medication since the risk of aspirin users possibly developing Crohn's disease remains very low - only one in every 2000 users, and the link is not yet finally proved."

Which treatment is effective in maintaining remission in ulcerative colitis: Probiotic or placebo?

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 14:01:00 +0000

Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic recurrent disease, which mainly consists of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, and whose causes are as yet unclear. Many clinical and research studies have indicated that intestinal flora dysbacteriosis contributes to the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis. Probiotics are non-pathogenic beneficial flora, which have important effects on maintaining the balance of intestinal flora. Many studies have discussed the positive effects of probiotics for treating stomach and intestine diseases, including ulcerative colitis. However, the sample size has been relatively small, such that there is no definitive evidence as to whether probiotics are helpful.

A research team from China systematically evaluated probiotics' curative effects for treating ulcerative colitis based on existing random control trials. Their study will be published on April 21, 2010 in the World Journal of Gastroenterology.

Through meta-analysis, they concluded that probiotics should be considered as an auxiliary medicine in the remission induction stage and maintenance stage of ulcerative colitis.

Source: World Journal of Gastroenterology

To learn more about the benefits of SeroLife® probiotics, please visit: www.serovera.com

Acne drug linked to bowel disease

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 13:24:00 +0000

A drug prescribed to treat severe acne has been freshly linked to an increased risk of bowel disease in some users.A team of researchers at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill found that patients using isotretinoin were four times more likely than non-users to develop ulcerative colitis within a year, but conceded that the risk of developing the condition is still "likely quite small".Isotretinoin, otherwise known as Accutane, has been linked to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in the past.

Most recently, a former user who claimed that the drug caused his IBD won damages of $25 million from the drug's manufacturer despite the firm claiming there was no evidence to link the two.The latest study, published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology, found that isotretinoin users were roughly four times more likely than non-users to have ulcerative colitis but found no evidence that it was linked to Crohn's disease, as initially thought.The researchers, led by Dr Seth D Crockett, analysed the details of 8,189 people on 87 separate US health insurance plans. They compared instances of IBD among isotretinoin users and non-users of equivalent age and sex in order to establish a cause-and-effect relationship between the two.

Source: American Journal of Gastroenterology

Smoking and inflammatory bowel diseases: what in smoking alters the course?

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 15:08:00 +0000

Epidemiological studies provide strong evidence to confirm the correlation between cigarette smoking and inflammatory bowel diseases. This relationship is proved to be positive in Crohn's disease and negative in ulcerative colitis. What in smoking alters the course of inflammatory bowel diseases is still a mystery. Different smoking parts have different and may be opponent actions. Smoking has dual effects. Some of its activities are, sometimes, constructive as they are working in an antagonistic manner to the mechanism of the disease, such as reducing rectal blood flow and accordingly less recruitments of inflammatory mediators to the area of inflammation, enhancement of mucosal production, and consequently, strengthening the membranes, and inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators' liberation and activity in subjects with ulcerative colitis. Yet the outcome of smoking actions may be affected by the existence of other cofactors. Odd factors, such as shortage of zinc in subjects with Crohn's disease, may facilitate liberation of pro-inflammatory mediators and their activities and accordingly exacerbates symptoms.

Source:
El-Tawil AM.
Department of Surgery, University Hospital of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK, atawil20052003@yahoo.co.uk.

Colonoscopy Not Needed for Most With Irritable Bowel Syndrome

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 21:01:00 +0000

People with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) aren't at increased risk for polyps, colon cancer or inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn's disease and, in most cases, don't require a colonoscopy, U.S. researchers say.

Symptoms of IBS, which affects 10 percent to 20 percent of Americans, include recurrent abdominal pain or cramping in connection with altered bowel habits. The condition is more common among women than men.

"Patients and doctors get nervous about the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. They think the symptoms represent something more sinister," lead author Dr. William D. Chey, professor of internal medicine at the University of Michigan Medical School, said in a news release from the school. "This study should reassure doctors and patients that typical IBS symptoms are not indicators of a more serious disease."

He and his colleagues conducted the largest evaluation of the results of colonoscopies in IBS patients, they said. About one-quarter of all colonoscopies performed in the United States are for IBS-related symptoms.

Chey and his team concluded that colonoscopies aren't necessary for typical cases of IBS, unless there is a family history of colorectal cancer or the patient has alarming symptoms such as unexplained weight loss or anemia, or bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract.

"Lay people and doctors overuse colonoscopies, which are very expensive procedures, in patients with typical IBS symptoms and no alarm features. Of course, patients over the age of 50 years or who have alarm features should undergo colonoscopy to screen for polyps and colon cancer," Chey said.

The researchers did find that 2.5 percent of IBS patients older than 35 had a disease called microscopic colitis, which can be mistaken for IBS in patients with diarrhea. It's important to diagnose this condition because it requires different treatment than IBS, Chey said.

The study was released online in advance of publication in an upcoming print issue of the American Journal of Gastroenterology.

This article is a reprint of http://www.businessweek.com/lifestyle/content/healthday/637033.html
The time or date displayed reflects when an article was added to Google News March 17. 2010

Ulcer Drugs Found to Cause Diarrhea and Colitis

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 13:30:00 +0000

People who take widely used acid reflux drugs like Prilosec, Prevacid and Nexium may be trading heartburn for another problem: a potentially dangerous diarrhea caused by Clostridium difficile bacteria.

C-diff, as it's known, causes severe diarrhea and the intestinal inflammation, colitis.

C-Diff Cases on the Rise

Researchers from McGill University in Montreal studied more than 18,000 patients from 1994 to 2004. They found that the number of C-diff cases has been increasing, from less than one case per 100,000 people in 1994, to 22 per 100,000 in 2004.

What's more, the researchers found that patients taking prescription heartburn drugs had a much higher risk than those who did not. The drugs reduce levels of gastric acid that control C-diff bacteria. The study found:

•Patients taking proton pump inhibitors (Prilosec and Prevacid) were almost three times more likely to have a C-diff infection than non-users.
•Patients taking H2 receptor antagonists (Pepcid and Zantac) were twice as likely to have a C-diff infection.
Antibiotics and Hospitalization Also Risks

People who are hospitalized, and those on antibiotics, also have a higher risk of C-diff infection.

But while some blame the increasing number of C-diff infections on overuse of antibiotics, the new study points to overuse of acid-fighting drugs as another likely culprit.

Source:
http://jama.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/short/294/23/2989

MS Drug Continues to Cause Disastrous Side Effects

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 13:09:00 +0000

In the latest blow to the controversial multiple sclerosis drug Tysabri, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has ordered a new label be put on the drug, warning that the risk of developing progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a rare but deadly brain infection, increases as more Tysabri infusions are received.

Natalizumab (Tysabri) first received FDA approval in November 2004, only to be pulled from the market three months later after several patients in clinical trials developed PML.

In June 2006, the FDA allowed the drug back on the market, but with strict conditions. According to those revised guidelines, Tysabri can only be administered by approved doctors at sites that register and comply with a patient-safety program.

The new action was based on reports of 31 confirmed cases of PML as of January 21, 2010.

Source:
http://www.businessweek.com/lifestyle/content/healthday/635773.html

GERD Surgery May Not Prevent Esophageal Cancer

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 21:40:00 +0000

Patients who have surgery to treat severe gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD, continue to have a high risk of developing cancer of the esophagus, according to a new study from the Karolinsa Institute in Stockholm. Esophageal cancers is one of the most ten common cancers in the United States.

GERD is a known risk factor for esophageal cancer. Acid from the stomach refluxes back up into the esophagus, causing heart burn and inflammation to the lining of the esophagus – a condition known as Barrett’s esophagus. While Barrett’s esophagus itself is not cancerous, it causes damage to the cells which can lead to cancer. It occurs in approximately 10% of patients with GERD.

Dr. Jesper Lagergren and colleagues studied over 14,000 Swedish patients who had anti-reflux surgery between the years 1965 and 2006. The most common surgical procedure for treating GERD is the Nissen fundoplication, which reinforces the lower esophageal sphincter between the esophagus and the stomach to prevent the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus. The overall risk of developing esophageal cancer was 12 times that of the general Swedish population, and the risk did not decrease with time after the surgery, even up to 15 years.

Dr. Lagergren, professor of surgery at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, said, "We expected a decreased risk of cancer with increased time after surgery, but we didn't find it. There is no evidence to support the idea that anti-reflux surgery prevents cancer development of the esophagus." The professor believes that the length of time patients had reflux prior to surgery and the severity of the illness contributed to the lack of decrease in cancer risk.

The American Institute for Cancer Research has found that cancer of the esophagus is one of the most preventable cancers in both men and women, with obesity, smoking, and alcohol being some of the greatest risk factors. About 16,740 new cases were diagnosed in the US in 2009.

Lifestyle changes that can treat GERD before damage occurs that leads to cancer include weight loss, smoking and alcohol cessation.

This article is a reprint of
http://www.emaxhealth.com/1506/51/35271/gerd-surgery-may-not-prevent-esophageal-cancer.html The time or date displayed reflects when an article was added to Google News Feb. 12, 2010

FDA sees risks linked to the drug Tysabri

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 21:48:00 +0000

WASHINGTON, Feb. 8 (UPI) -- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says it's determined the risk of developing a rare viral disease has been linked with Tysabri infusions.

The FDA said it has notified healthcare professionals the risk of developing progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy increases with the number of Tysabri (Natalizumab) infusions received.

Tysabri is used to fight multiple sclerosis and Crohn's disease. Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy is a usually fatal disease that damages the material that covers and protects nerves in the white matter of the brain, Wikipedia said.

The new safety information is based on reports of 31 confirmed cases of PML received by the FDA as of January 21, officials said. The information is to be included on the Tysabri drug label and patient medication guide.

"Based on the available information, FDA believes that the clinical benefits of Tysabri continue to outweigh the potential risks," the federal agency said. "Revisions to the drug label and patient Medication Guide … are intended to maximize the safe use of Tysabri and the identification of new PML cases.

Tysabri is manufactured by Biogen Idec Inc. of Cambridge, Mass.

For more information
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/SafetyAlertsforHumanMedicalProducts

The Benefits of Probiotics

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 14:38:00 +0000

Probiotic

The human body is made up of an estimated 100 trillion bacterial cells from at least 500 species, not including viruses and fungi. These bacterias (probiotics) are referred to as "friendly" bacteria and are responsible for several important biological functions. Some of these functions include assisting with digestion, keeping other harmful bacteria at bay and stimulating the immune system.

Researchers found that probiotics hold the answer to the growing number of cases of antibiotic resistance and abuse. This has caused consumers to search for other natural alternatives to treating various health conditions.

Certain studies have proven the many health benefits of probiotics such as the prevention or control of:

Food and skin allergies in children
Bacterial vagniosis
Premature labor in pregnant women
Inflammatory bowel disease
Recurrent ear and bladder infections
Chronic diarrhea

Probiotics are defined as "live microorganisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host."

Probiotic bacteria, which are living microorganisms that have beneficial effects on human health, have mostly been studied as treatments for different gastrointestinal diseases and allergies. However, not much is known about what kind of effects they have on the immune system in healthy adults.

A new study shows that probiotics can modulate immune responses via your gut‘s mucosal immune system.

It was found that probiotics have an anti-inflammatory potential. They caused a decrease in serum CRP levels, and a reduction in the bacteria-induced production of proinflammatory cytokines.

Fatty acids affect ulcerative colitis risk

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 16:08:00 +0000

People who eat lots of red meat, cook with certain types of oil, and use some kinds of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA)-heavy margarines may be increasing their risk of a painful inflammatory bowel disease.

These foods are high in linoleic acid and people who are the heaviest consumers of this omega-6 PUFA are more than twice as likely to develop ulcerative colitis as those who consume the least.

Researchers have found that eating more eicosapentaenoic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish and fish oils, is associated with a lower risk of the disease. While people need a certain amount of linoleic acid to survive, excess amounts are taken up into the lining of the colon, and if they're released, they can promote inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acid does the opposite. It basically dampens down inflammation.

To investigate the role of fatty acids and ulcerative colitis, a life-long disease characterised by inflammation of the lining of the large intestine, researchers looked at data from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) trial, which included over half a million people from 10 European countries. Their analysis included 203,193 men and women 30 to 74 years old. During follow-up, which ranged from about 2 to 11 years, 126 people developed ulcerative colitis.

It was found that people in the top quartile of linoleic acid intake (they were consuming around 13 to 38 grams a day) were 2.5 times more likely to have developed the disease than people who consumed the least, about 2 to 8 grams daily.

There's currently no proven dietary treatment for ulcerative colitis but the current findings raise the possibility that eating a diet low in linoleic acid could be helpful. While a Western-style, red-meat-heavy diet is high in this fatty acid and low in omega-3s, a more Mediterranean style eating pattern - with plenty of fruits and vegetables, fish, and nut oils - would be low in linoleic acid and high in omega-3. If omega-3s do help prevent ulcerative colitis, eating a couple of servings of fish a week would probably be protective, the researchers concluded.

Source:
http://doctor.ndtv.com/storypage/ndtv/id/4118/Fatty_acids_affect_ulcerative_colitis_risk.html
The time or date displayed reflects when an article was added to Google News Dec.4, 2009

Diverticulosis

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 18:59:00 +0000

Diverticulitis occurs when small, bulging pockets - or diverticula - occur within the colon and become infected. In most cases a slight or micro-perforation occurs.

Diverticulosis, the presence of the pocket without infection, is very common as we grow older. Nearly half of Americans over 50 will have diverticulosis, and many will have no symptoms at all. They often will be diagnosed at the time of their screening colonoscopy.

The longer a person has the pouches, the greater the chance of getting them infected and hence, being diagnosed with diverticulitis. Some cases are attributed to low-fiber diet and/or constipation. Diets rich in fiber and prompt medical evaluations are recommended mainstays for prevention and treatment, respectively.

The mere presence of diverticulosis usually will not cause significant symptoms. However, when an infection does occur severe abdominal pain is common, usually in the left lower abdomen. Fever, tenderness and altered bowel habits are common with diverticulitis.

During the acute infection, a low-fiber diet is best to limit the amount of food intake that might remain in the intestinal tract undigested.

Complications of diverticulitis can greatly increase the mortality of the disease. When perforation is not contained, peritonitis will occur and emergency surgery is necessary. The mortality rate soars above 35 percent in this scenario. Abscesses, septic shock, multisystem failure and bowel obstruction can also complicate the condition. Fistulous tracts can arise between intestines or other organs including the bladder, vagina and skin. Bleeding from diverticulosis can cause massive blood losses.

Probiotic found to treat colitis

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 15:32:00 +0000

A new study has found a possible ulcerative colitis treatment. Researchers say mice that were given the probiotic Bacillus polyfermenticus during the non-inflammatory stage of the disease showed reduced rectal bleeding, less inflamed tissue and gained more weight than the mice that did not receive it.

The study also found that the colon tissue of the treated mice had greater angiogenesis, a process that is necessary for wounds to heal.

Colitis is a type of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) in which the inner tissue of the colon becomes inflamed and damaged and can result in painful sores. It’s estimated that as many as 3.3 million Americans suffer from the disease.

Healthcare practitioners have recommended probiotics, or beneficial bacteria, as an alternative treatment for the disease. Researchers involved with this study say further studies are necessary before it is known whether these results can be applied to humans.

According to the Mayo Clinic, other alternative therapies believed to help treat colitis include probiotics, acupuncture and nutritional supplements containing fish oil and aloe vera. Reducing stress and avoiding foods that trigger symptoms from the diet is also believed to be beneficial.

For more information on alternative supplements containing aloe mucilaginous polysaccharides and probiotics, please visit us at www.serovera.com.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease and High Folate Levels

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 20:30:00 +0000

Children with newly diagnosed cases of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have higher concentrations of folate in their blood than other children. These findings bring into question the previously held theory that patients with IBD tend to be prone to a folate deficiency.

IBD is a blanket term referring to illnesses that cause chronic inflammation in the intestines, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. IBD occurs in children of all ages and can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, bleeding and nutritional deficiencies.

Previous research has shown that adults with IBD actually tend to have lower folate levels than those without the disease. Folate, a form of water-soluble vitamin B, helps produce and maintain new cells. It occurs naturally in foods such as leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits and a variety of beans.

Source:Eurekalert January 23, 2009

Insufficient iron, vitamin levels can lead to anemia

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:40:00 +0000

They are extremely small and most of us probably never give them any thought.

Millions of red blood cells circulate through our bodies carrying oxygen to all our tissues and taking away the carbon dioxide. When we don't have enough healthy red blood cells, we can feel lightheaded or weak and tired, even with adequate rest. This condition is known as anemia. Anemia has three main causes:

- Loss of blood or chronic bleeding.

-Faulty production of red blood cells caused by vitamin and mineral deficiencies or other conditions such as sickle cell disease.

-Red blood cells can be destroyed by toxins, drugs, infections or the body's own immune system.

Chronic bleeding can occur in the gastrointestinal tract as a result of stomach ulcers or conditions such as diverticulitis and hemorrhoids. Women of childbearing age are prone to anemia due to monthly blood loss with menstrual periods. Some anti-inflammatory medications used for arthritis can also irritate the stomach and cause bleeding.

The bone marrow is the factory that produces red blood cells. In order for the body to build healthy red blood cells, it must have enough of the mineral iron and the vitamins B12 and folic acid. Iron is found in beef, turkey, chicken, fish and shellfish. Many foods have iron added to them in processing, such as breakfast cereals, oatmeal, breads and crackers. Good plant sources of iron are beans, peas, lentils, soybeans, spinach and raisins.

Iron from foods is best absorbed when a good source of vitamin C accompanies the meal. In other words, drinking a small glass of vitamin C-fortified juice or eating a bowl of strawberries with your meat or beans will help the body use the iron. Drinking too much tea can block the absorption of iron.

Vitamin B12 is found only in animal foods such as eggs, milk, cheese and meat. When the stomach or intestines have been damaged or sections removed by surgery, vitamin B12 may not be absorbed from the food adequately. Injections of B12 may be required on a regular basis to correct the anemia.

Folic acid is found is oranges, green leafy vegetables and fortified whole grain cereal products.

Your doctor can take a series of blood tests to determine if you have anemia. A balanced diet with a variety of protein sources and lots of fruits and vegetables will help give you more energy.

This article is a reprint of
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20091110/COL0803/911100332/1292/health/Insufficient-iron--vitamin-levels-can-lead-to-anemia
The time or date displayed reflects when an article was added to Google News Nov.9, 2009

People on Immunosuppressive Therapies May Be More At Risk for Skin Cancer

noreply@blogger.com (Evan) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 20:15:00 +0000

Researchers have found patients undergoing treatments that require immunosuppressive drugs may be more susceptible to non-melanoma skin cancers, requiring greater care with their skin treatments.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients who are being treated with immunosuppressive medications may be at increased risk for non-melanoma skin cancer, a new U.S. study says. Researchers analyzed data on 26,403 Crohn's disease patients and 26,974 patients with ulcerative colitis in order to evaluate how the use of immunosuppressive and biologic medications to treat IBD affected non-melanoma skin cancer risk.

The study found that the incidence of non-melanoma skin cancer was higher in IBD patients than in a control group. Recent use (within 90 days) of any immunosuppressive medication was associated with greater risk of non-melanoma skin cancer (adjusted odds ratio 3.28), as was recent use of the thiopurine class of immunosuppressive medications (adjusted odds ratio 3.56) and recent use of biologic medications in Crohn's disease patients (adjusted odds ratio 2.07).

Persistent use of any immunosuppressive medication, which was considered use for more than one year, was strongly associated with non-melanoma skin cancer (adjusted odds ratio 4.04), the study authors noted. The association was even stronger with persistent use of thiopurine medications (adjusted odds ratio 4.27). In Crohn's disease, persistent use of biologic medications was also associated with a raised risk (adjusted odds ratio 2.18).

"The increased risk of non-melanoma skin cancer in patients with IBD is likely related to the immunosuppressive medications used to treat the disease, although we can't rule out changes to the immune system itself as a result of IBD as contributing to this risk," said study leader Dr. Millie Long, of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.