ECOLOGY OF THE GUT
The gut is not a favorite topic but essential to know about and to understand why it is so important in the overall health of our body!
See larger view from the University of Southern Florida
Opens new window. Close to return.
For years the human GI tract has been largely an enigma to researchers. Over a decade of studies suggested that certain polysaccarides play an important role in affecting the function of our immune system. This study has provided the groundwork for current and future studies, including a better understanding of what larch arabinogalactan and stabilized aloe vera gel polysaccharides are doing in the body's gut.
People can survive without gut flora; however, the macroorganisms perform a host of useful functions. They ferment unused energy substrates, train the immune system and thus prevent growth of harmful species. Without bacteria the human immune system would not be as effective at fighting infection.
The International Journal of Probiotics and Prebiotics was scheduled to publish an article called Utilization of Arabinogalactan, Aloe Vera Gel Polysaccharides, and a Mixed Saccharide Dietary Supplement by Human Colonic Bacteria in Vitro" either late last Fall or eary 2008. I have not seen it yet, but you might want to watch for it.
The area of probiotics is among the most important nutritional research being conducted today.
From Ecology of the Gut to Home Page

|