While this connection sounds far-fetched, there's some interesting science that may connect what yout eat, the kind of bacteria your digestive tract produces, and your weight. A new study in Time Magazine (November 12, 2009) took a closer look.
This is early research, but might hint at the human condition. Our digestive tracts are loaded with millions of bacteria, some connected to the utilization and storage of body fat. Using very sophisticated scientific methods, the work was done in mice, but the cells used (and studied) were from the human digestive tract.
Two different kinds of bacteria seem to respond to changes what the animals ate. The mice were fed typical human diets, to see how their bacteria, and weight, changed.
The findings? Mice fed a typical artery-clogging diet high in fat and sugars tended to gain weight, and grew more "Firmicutes" bacteria. The mice eating the low-fat, plant-rich diet remained lean, and grew more of the "Bacteroidetes" bacteria.
The day might come when a "bacteria profile" in the digestive tract might contribute to the biological predisposition for weight gain. This is just the start of a connection, since an association - "good" bacteria and staying lean - does not mean cause.
For now, this is just "food for thought", but important when we look at the comprehensive reasons why some people gain weight more easily than others.
Mixing caffeine and alcohol can be a dangerous combination, and I'm not talking about "Irish Coffee" at the end of holiday meal. Starting with the Red Bull and Vodka craze, years ago, you can now purchase cans of pre-mixed blends of caffeine and alcohol (mostly found as malt liquor), in a beverage category called "alcoholic energy drinks".
The FDA is now taking a closer look at this drink category - where reports indicate that consumption is linked with higher rates of personal injury, and drunk driving among other risky behaviors. Even worse, these drinks are targeted at college students, already a group with a higher rate of socially-risky behaviors. While some products have been voluntarily removed from the market, including Tilt, Bud Extra, and Sparks, a product called Joose is actively being marketed.
So, what's the problem? With its stimulation effect, caffeine appears to influence people by impairing their judgement in how much they've had to drink. They underestimate their consumption, in turn fostering a false sense of control of their ability to carry out their normal activities.
The good news is that many consumer and government groups are pressing the FDA to take a closer look. And, changing regulations will make it easier for the FDA to act more quickly on potentially dangerous food combinations. Current rulings have the burden of "proof of safety" with the manufacturer.
Bottom line: If you or anyone you know consumes these drinks, cut them out. They are definitely a health risk you can avoid.
There's some good news in the battle about accurate nutrition claims on packaged foods. You've seen my recent blog, from November 3, on the outrageouis claims on the front of the box of both Rice Krispies and Cocoa Krispies: "supports a healthy immune system". Check out that blog and accompanying Today segment for more background info.
Kellogg's has now wisely decided to voluntarily remove the claim from the front of the boxes of these cereals. A good thing, since the FDA was taking a closer look at these claims, based on the comments of health professionals, and others, including the city of San Francisco.
Looking for accurate nutrition information on your box of cereal? Stick to the regular nutrition label. Aim for low sugar, high fiber cereals, or mix one of these with one of your current choices. From Cheerios to Shredded Wheat, there are plenty of tasty, healthful choices that can contribute to a healthy lifestyle. Even so, that's only part of your "eating day".
Bottom Line? Sometimes a bowl of cereal is just a bowl of cereal.
