small intestine – Lacto Bacto

Many people suffer from intestinal ailments, such as intestinal bowel diseases and intestinal bowel syndrome. Over and over researchers find that altered gut microbiomes and intestinal lining alterations (e.g., "leaky gut") may be involved. A recent study from MIT found that the amino acid cysteine promotes healing of the small intestinal lining.

Once again, a person's diet may be the answer. Cysteine is found in many high-protein foods. Foods that are rich in cysteine include: poultry, eggs, beef, fish (e.g., salmon, halibut, tuna), whole grains, soybeans, and some nuts (almonds).

While the study was conducted in mice, the researchers felt the results also applied to humans.

From Medical Xpress: A cysteine-rich diet may promote regeneration of the intestinal lining

A diet rich in the amino acid cysteine may have rejuvenating effects in the small intestine, according to a new study from MIT. This amino acid, the researchers discovered, can turn on an immune signaling pathway that helps stem cells to regrow new intestinal tissue.

This enhanced regeneration may help to heal injuries from radiation, which often occur in patients undergoing radiation therapy for cancer. The research was conducted in mice, but if future research shows similar results in humans, then delivering elevated quantities of cysteine, through diet or supplements, could offer a new strategy to help damaged tissue heal faster, the researchers say. ...continue reading "Healing the Small Intestine and the Amino Acid Cysteine"

Small intestine Credit: Wikipedia

A new study highlights the importance of eating a variety of foods for good health. Researchers found that humans have 5 distinct regions in the small intestine, and each region absorbs different nutrients and has different cellular functions. And each zone responds to changes in the diet.

The researchers said that this helps understand how the small intestine successfully regenerates over the life span, as well as clues as to the development of some intestinal diseases. They also discovered that there are 3 regions in the small intestine that are each home to distinct intestinal stem cell types.

Bottom line: Be good to your intestines (and in doing so, promote good health) by eating a variety of real foods. That means a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts, legumes (beans). Try to eat as many organic foods as possible (non-organic foods contain pesticide residues that can disrupt gut microbiome). Try to avoid ultra-processed foods as much as possible.

From Medical Xpress: Scientists gain new insights into how small intestine works

However, the organ may finally be ready for an update: U.S. researchers say the small intestine is actually comprised of five distinct segments, each being responsible for the absorption of various nutrients. ...continue reading "The Five Regions of the Small Intestine"