Synbiotics used to Treat Constipation in Men

While many people suffer from constipation, there is a range of symptoms which define the condition.  From the frequency of bowel movements to stool size and consistency, there are several factors that could be indicative of problem. For those with mild to moderate constipation, taking synbiotic supplements could help to relieve symptoms by restoring or helping to regulate beneficial intestinal flora.

Signs of Constipation:

• Fewer than 3 stools per week
• Straining
• Lower abdominal pain or fullness
• Incomplete evacuation

Synbiotics

Synbiotics are supplements that contain both prebiotics and probiotics which together work to grow or increase the effectiveness of beneficial gastrointestinal flora.  Some of the most effective combinations available are bifidobacteria and fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS), Lactobacillus GGand inulins, and bifidobacteria and lactobacilli with FOS or inulins.

Following chemotherapy, radiation or antibiotic use, intestinal flora is often thrown off balance due to the damage these treatments can cause to important microorganisms.  Synbiotics provide the means to reestablish the proper balance in the GI tract by healing and stimulating the growth of good intestinal bacteria.

The Research

In a recent study, a synbiotic mixture was given to young men who suffered from constipation.  As a result of the study, researchers found that synbiotics were effective in relieving mild to moderate symptoms of constipation during and following supplementation.  As no adverse effects were discovered in the use of synbiotics as treatment for constipation, this method was found to be both safe and effective.

Other Conditions Synbiotics May Help Prevent:

• food allergies
• ulcerous colitis
• diarrhea
• various cancers

Proper balance in the gut is essential for maintaining health in a variety of areas, and taking dailysynbiotic supplements can help achieve and maintain that balance.

The Benefits of Flaxseed Fibers in Suppressing Postprandial Lipemia and Appetite

Flaxseed oil is a wonderful source of essential fatty acids which can provide many health benefits.  Most importantly it contains linolenic acid, which is also a fatty acid that the body cannot produce on its own. Most Americans tend to have insufficient amounts of linolenic acid in their diets, and flaxseed oil is one of the best and healthiest sources.

With the knowledge of the importance of flaxseed oil, studies have been conducted to discover if, among its other health benefits, flaxseed may be beneficial in preventing cardiovascular disease.

Risk Factors for Cardivascular Disease:

• Older age
• Male gender
• Family history of CVD
• Cigarette smoking
• High cholesterol
• Hypertension
• Physical inactivity
• Sleep problems
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Excessive alcohol consumption

A study was conducted by researchers from the University of Copenhagen to determine whetherflaxseed fiber can be used to suppress postprandial lipemia, which is a high level of lipids in the blood in the hours after eating, and reduce appetite. Participants were given predetermined quantities of flaxseed along with their regular meals and then evaluated at the conclusion of the study.

Results of the Flaxseed Study

The study determined that those who were given the largest quantity of flaxseed fiber had substantially lower triacylglycerol levels. In addition, those who received the most flaxseedexperienced a greater sense of fullness than those who received a lower dose.  Researchers determined that Flaxseed may be an important component of maintaining a healthy weight as it can suppress appetite, and it may also inhibit some of the risk factors of cardiovascular disease

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