Wendy J Dahl

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This research looked at how dietary fiber affects constipation in people with Parkinson's disease. The study found that high-fiber diets or supplements could help manage constipation and improve gut health, which is important because constipation can worsen overall health and quality of life. However, it also highlighted the need to be careful about using fiber supplements since they might lead to issues like weight loss or malnutrition. Who this helps: This helps patients with Parkinson's disease and their caregivers.

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This study looked at whether patients receiving stem-cell transplants or chemotherapy for leukemia could safely eat a more varied diet, compared to the low-bacterial diet usually prescribed to prevent infections. The results showed that 31.4% of patients on the liberalized diet had major infections compared to 20.2% on the neutropenic diet. This matters because it means that the more liberal diet increased the risk of infection without offering any benefits in nutrition or overall health. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing hematopoietic stem-cell transplants and those receiving chemotherapy for leukemia.

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This study looked at whether a more flexible diet could help patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplants eat more and lose less weight during periods of low white blood cell counts, known as neutropenia. Researchers found that patients on a liberalized diet consumed an average of 678 calories per day, while those on a neutropenic diet consumed 724 calories, which was not a significant difference. The findings suggest that changing to a less restrictive diet does not help these patients eat more or maintain their weight, highlighting the need for other strategies to improve nutrition during treatment. Who this helps: Patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplants and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how yeast mannans (YM) might help improve bowel movements and change gut bacteria in older adults. Of the 20 participants, those taking YM reported a slight increase in the frequency of their stools, with an average rise from 1.35 to about 1.53 stools per day, while also experiencing minimal digestive issues. The findings suggest that YM could be a helpful new option for managing gut health in older adults. Who this helps: Older adults looking for better digestive health.

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This study looked at whether a supplement made from yeast beta-glucan could boost the body’s antibody response to the flu vaccine in older adults. In a small group of 90 adults, those who took the beta-glucan showed a better antibody response to one strain of the flu virus after vaccination compared to those who took a placebo, with a notable difference of 95.8 in the antibody levels. This matters because improving vaccine responses can lead to better protection against the flu, especially for older adults, who are at higher risk. Who this helps: Patients, especially older adults receiving the flu vaccine.

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This study looked at whether taking 60 milliliters of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) daily could help reduce facial pain in adults with trigeminal neuralgia (TN). Over 12 weeks, participants who took EVOO reported significant decreases in pain and improvement in their daily functioning, while those who didn't take EVOO saw no changes. This matters because it provides evidence that a simple dietary change may help manage a painful condition and enhance quality of life for those affected. Who this helps: Patients suffering from trigeminal neuralgia.

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This research looked at the use of ultra-processed oral nutrition supplements (ONS) for individuals who accidentally lose weight, especially older adults. It found that while these supplements are convenient, they often lack fiber and important nutrients found in whole foods, which can harm gut health and may not provide the expected benefits for maintaining a healthy diet. Relying too much on these supplements can lead to negative health effects because they replace more nutritious, plant-based foods. Who this helps: Patients who are losing weight unintentionally and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how long probiotics stay in the gut after people stop taking them and how this relates to how quickly their intestines move food through. Researchers found that certain probiotics could be detected in stool about 1-2 days after starting, and one specific probiotic (R0175) lasted longer in the gut, averaging about 8.5 days, especially in some people where it stayed for more than 15 days. Understanding these patterns is important for improving how probiotics are used in treatments, as it can help tailor recommendations based on individual digestive speeds and gut bacteria. Who this helps: This benefits patients looking for effective probiotic treatments tailored to their digestive needs.

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This study looked at how different diets might influence the types of beneficial bacteria in people's guts and how these bacteria respond to probiotics. Researchers found that people with higher levels of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in their stools tended to eat more cheese, nuts, and oily fish, while those with lower levels ate more tomatoes and poultry. Knowing how diet affects these bacteria could help improve the effectiveness of probiotic treatments. Who this helps: This benefits patients looking for more effective probiotic therapies.

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This research focused on analyzing data from 11 studies about how dietary fiber affects gut bacteria in humans. The researchers collected information from 2,368 samples and standardized this data to make it easier for others to compare results. This is important because understanding how fiber influences gut health can lead to new treatments and strategies for improving health through diet. Who this helps: This benefits patients and healthcare providers looking to understand the role of diet in digestive health.

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This study looked at how well survivors of hematopoietic stem cell transplants follow the American Cancer Society's physical activity guidelines. Out of 81 participants, only 17.3% met the recommended activity level of over 500 minutes of physical activity per week, with a median score of just 153 minutes. This is important because many survivors are not getting enough exercise, which can impact their health and recovery, highlighting the need for better support and guidance on physical activity. Who this helps: This benefits patients and healthcare providers working with cancer survivors.

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This study looked at whether adding pea hull fiber to the diet of adults on hemodialysis could lower harmful substances produced by gut bacteria. Over several weeks, participants ate muffins with this fiber and had their blood and stool tested, but there were no significant changes in harmful substances like serum-cresyl sulfate or indoxyl sulfate. This is important because it suggests that pea hull fiber, at the amount given, doesn't effectively improve blood levels of these harmful compounds in people undergoing hemodialysis. Who this helps: This helps patients on hemodialysis who are looking for dietary ways to manage their health.

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This study looked at whether a weekly questionnaire about stomach issues is just as reliable as a daily one for healthy adults. Researchers found that both questionnaires worked well in measuring symptoms like constipation and diarrhea, with reliability scores around 0.76 for the daily questions and around 0.73 to 0.74 for the weekly ones. This is important because it means people can use the weekly questionnaire without worrying too much about accuracy, making it easier for them to share their gastrointestinal experiences. Who this helps: This helps patients who experience gastrointestinal issues, as well as doctors who need to assess their symptoms.

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This paper looks at non-digestible carbohydrates (NDCs), which are types of fiber that our bodies can't digest but can provide health benefits, like improving bowel movements and lowering blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Researchers found that while these substances can be helpful, they can also lead to uncomfortable symptoms like gas and bloating, which may make people less likely to eat foods that contain them. Understanding how well people tolerate NDCs is important for creating better food products and conducting effective clinical research. Who this helps: This benefits patients looking for healthier food options and researchers developing new dietary guidelines.

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This study examined the effects of low and high doses of a multi-strain probiotic supplement on gut bacteria in healthy adults. Over 28 days, participants took either 5 billion or 25 billion bacteria units daily, or a placebo, with no significant changes in digestive health or overall wellbeing. The high-dose group had a small increase in specific bacteria types, but overall, the probiotics didn't dramatically alter gut bacteria in healthy individuals. Who this helps: This research benefits patients, particularly those with metabolic disorders or obesity who may experience imbalances in their gut bacteria.

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This study looked at the gut bacteria makeup of adults with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) compared to adults without the condition. Researchers found that adults with PWS had less of a type of bacteria called Blautia and more of several other types, including RF39, Alistipes, and Odoribacter. These differences in gut bacteria might be connected to the unique way people with PWS process food and energy, which is important for understanding their health and managing their care. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and caregivers of individuals with Prader-Willi syndrome.

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This study looked at the gut bacteria of 30 people who had received stem cell transplants to see if there was a connection between their gut health and levels of fatigue. Researchers found that those with ongoing fatigue had a different mix of gut bacteria compared to those without, specifically noting that 46 types of bacteria were more or less common in each group. These results indicate that changes in gut bacteria may play a role in fatigue experienced after treatment, which could lead to new ways to manage this common problem for survivors. Who this helps: Patients recovering from stem cell transplants experiencing chronic fatigue.

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This study looked at the types of food ads shown on television during Ramadan in Arab Gulf countries to see how often unhealthy foods are promoted. Out of 1,473 total ads analyzed, 20.4% were for food and restaurants, with many ads pushing high-calorie, sugary, and salty options. This is important because it highlights a connection between unhealthy food advertising and rising obesity rates in these countries, suggesting that better regulations on food ads could help improve public health. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially those at risk for obesity and related health issues.

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This study looked at how older adults respond to snacks that have added pea hull fiber (PHF) in terms of their bowel movements, gut health, and appetite. Researchers found that while the fiber did not change the average stool frequency or form, participants reported more abdominal discomfort and gas when consuming the PHF snacks compared to a regular control snack. This matters because understanding how different fibers affect gut health can help improve dietary options for older adults, especially those who may need help meeting their fiber needs. Who this helps: Older adults looking for better fiber options in their diets.

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This study looked at the eating habits and nutrition quality of survivors who had undergone hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT). Researchers found that these survivors had an average diet quality score of 61.6 out of 100, with only 10% following a good-quality diet. Many reported low intake of important nutrients like vitamins A, C, and D, as well as calcium and magnesium, which can lead to health issues, and survivors who had been transplanted more recently were more open to joining dietary improvement programs. Who this helps: This information benefits HCT survivors and their healthcare providers by highlighting the importance of proper nutrition in recovery.

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In this study, researchers looked at how a high-protein diet affects gut bacteria and overall health in older women. They found that while the diet kept most of the gut bacteria stable, some beneficial bacteria decreased, and there was a slight increase in stomach discomfort with certain supplements. Despite these minor issues, participants gained lean muscle mass, showing that higher protein intake can be beneficial for this group. Who this helps: This research benefits older women looking to improve their health and muscle mass through diet.

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This study looked at how different diets affect the bacteria living in our guts, known as the microbiome. It found that diets high in fiber from plant-based foods promote the growth of beneficial bacteria while very high-fat diets can lead to more harmful bacteria. This is important because a healthy balance of gut bacteria is linked to better overall health. Who this helps: Patients looking to improve their gut health and overall well-being.

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This study looked at how a high-protein diet, particularly one that includes animal foods like red meat, affects certain compounds in the bodies of healthy older women. Researchers found that while the high-protein diet led to increases in some substances like l-carnitine, it did not increase levels of trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO), which is linked to heart disease and dementia. This is important because it suggests that older women can safely include animal proteins in their diet without raising their TMAO levels, which might lower their risk of these health issues. Who this helps: This helps older women considering dietary changes for better health outcomes.

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Researchers studied whether fermented soy could help people with mild to moderate heartburn by improving their overall quality of life and reducing their symptoms. They found that those taking fermented soy reported better scores in areas like the hassle of taking meds and problems with eating, while the frequency of heartburn and digestive issues improved during a follow-up period. This matters because it shows that fermented soy might help manage heartburn better over time without significant side effects, though further research is needed to confirm these findings. Who this helps: This helps patients who suffer from heartburn and related gastrointestinal issues.

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This study looked at whether a specific probiotic, Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis B94, helps adults with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) who suffer from constipation. While the research involved 25 adults over a total of 8 weeks, the probiotic didn't significantly improve the number of stools or overall gut health, even though some minor improvements in stool consistency were noted. Understanding these results is important because they highlight the limited effectiveness of this probiotic for constipation in PWS, meaning new treatments may still be needed. Who this helps: This helps patients with Prader-Willi syndrome and their caregivers.

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This study looked at the effectiveness of adding fiber to the diets of people living in long-term care facilities to see if it helps them have more frequent and easier bowel movements, while also reducing the need for laxatives. The researchers found that fiber appears to help increase stool frequency and lower laxative use, which can ease the problem of constipation many residents face. However, more detailed studies are needed to confirm the best types of fiber to use. Who this helps: This helps patients in long-term care facilities and their caregivers.

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This study looked at how a specific probiotic, Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis B94, affects bowel regularity and GI symptoms in adults with Prader-Willi syndrome, a condition often marked by constipation. Over 20 weeks, 36 adults aged 18-75 will try either the probiotic or a placebo for four weeks each, while tracking their stool frequency and form. The findings will help determine if this probiotic can effectively reduce constipation symptoms in this patient group. Who this helps: This research benefits adults with Prader-Willi syndrome experiencing constipation.

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This research paper focused on the health benefits of dietary fiber and how it can prevent and treat chronic diseases. The findings showed that people who consume more fiber have a lower risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers, with higher fiber intake linked to lower body weight and better blood sugar control. This is important because it highlights how eating more fiber can improve overall health and assist in managing chronic conditions. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially those with heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.

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This study looked at a substance called N6.2 to see how it affects the immune system of healthy adults and whether it is safe to use. In a trial with 42 participants who took either N6.2 or a placebo for 8 weeks, researchers found that N6.2 was safe and led to fewer reports of stomach pain and indigestion. It also altered immune cell levels in a way that might help in preventing type 1 diabetes, showing promise for future trials in those at risk. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk for type 1 diabetes and their doctors.

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This study looked at how taking calcium carbonate or calcium phosphate supplements affects levels of beneficial bacteria called Lactobacillus in the stool of healthy young adults. Researchers found that when participants took a specific probiotic along with calcium phosphate, the levels of Lactobacillus in their stool increased from a baseline of about 4.83 to 5.79, which is a significant rise, while no change was observed with calcium carbonate or the probiotic alone. This is important because increasing Lactobacillus levels can improve gut health. Who this helps: This helps patients looking to enhance their gut health through dietary supplements.

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This study looked at whether taking calcium supplements causes constipation in healthy women. Over eight weeks, 27 participants took either calcium carbonate or calcium phosphate, and the results showed no difference in stool frequency or form during the study. On average, they had about 1.3 bowel movements per day, and rates of constipation symptoms were similar regardless of the supplement used. Who this helps: This helps women who are concerned about calcium supplements causing constipation.

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This study looked at how adding almonds to the diets of parents and their young children affected their eating habits and gut health. Researchers found that eating almonds improved diet quality significantly, with parents' Healthy Eating Index scores increasing from about 54 to 61 and children's scores rising from about 54 to 61 as well (all with a high level of confidence in these results). While the study found that almonds changed some gut bacteria, it did not show any major changes in gut symptoms or immune response, indicating that more almond intake might be necessary for those effects to be seen. Who this helps: This benefits parents and their children looking to improve their diet and gut health.

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This study looked at how a probiotic called Bifidobacterium bifidum R0071 affects stress and digestive issues in college students. The results showed that students taking this probiotic reported lower levels of gastrointestinal discomfort related to stress, with a decrease in symptoms from an average score of 1.8 to 1.4 after two weeks, and it also lowered self-reported stress levels significantly. This is important because it suggests that probiotics like B. bifidum can help alleviate stress-related digestive problems during high-pressure times, such as exams. Who this helps: Patients experiencing stress-related digestive issues, especially students.

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This study looked at whether handgrip strength could help determine the nutritional risk of older adults who participate in meal programs in Florida. Out of 136 participants, 68% were found to be at nutritional risk, and 10% showed significant weakness based on their handgrip strength. Although handgrip strength had a weak connection to nutritional risk, it may still be useful in identifying vulnerable seniors who might need additional support. Who this helps: This helps older adults who may be at risk for malnutrition, along with the doctors and nutritionists who support their care.

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This study looked at how common swallowing problems, known as dysphagia, are among elderly people living in the community. It found that about 15% of this group experience difficulties with swallowing, with rates in some studies reaching as high as 72%. Understanding the prevalence and risk factors of dysphagia is crucial for improving early diagnosis and prevention strategies, which can have a meaningful impact on the health and quality of life for elderly individuals. Who this helps: This helps elderly patients and their caregivers by raising awareness about swallowing issues.

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Researchers conducted a study to see how well Bacillus subtilis R0179, a type of probiotic, works in healthy adults. They tested different doses—0.1, 1.0, and 10 billion units per day—on 81 participants and found that taking B. subtilis R0179 did not change general wellness or gastrointestinal symptoms, and that higher doses led to higher levels of the probiotic in the gut. This is important because it shows that B. subtilis R0179 is safe to take and can survive in the digestive system at various doses. Who this helps: Patients looking for effective and safe probiotic options.

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This study looked at how adding fiber to the diet of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects a harmful substance in their blood (p-cresol), their stool frequency, and their quality of life. After 12 weeks, p-cresol levels dropped from an average of 7.25 mg/L to 5.82 mg/L, and those who followed the fiber intake closely saw even greater reductions. Fiber intake more than doubled from 16.6 g/day to 34.5 g/day, which also increased their stool frequency from 1.4 to 1.9 stools per day. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with chronic kidney disease looking for ways to manage their health through diet.

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Researchers studied the effects of a probiotic called Bifidobacterium bifidum R0071 on undergraduate students who were experiencing academic stress. Over six weeks, students taking B. bifidum had more healthy days and reported fewer days with cold or flu symptoms compared to those who took a placebo, with a significant difference in health outcomes. This is important because it shows that taking this probiotic can help students stay healthier during stressful academic periods. Who this helps: This helps stressed students looking to reduce cold and flu occurrences.

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This study emphasizes the importance of eating enough dietary fiber, which comes from plant foods, to improve overall health. Research shows that people who consume higher amounts of fiber, at least 25 grams for women and 38 grams for men, have lower risks of chronic diseases like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers. Currently, the average fiber intake in the U.S. is only 17 grams per day, with just 5% of people eating enough, which highlights a significant gap in dietary habits. Who this helps: This benefits patients seeking to improve their health and reduce disease risks.

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This study looked at how providing middle school students with either whole-grain or refined-grain foods affected their grain consumption. Over six weeks, students who received whole-grain foods significantly increased their whole grain intake from about 1.1 ounces to 3.9 ounces per day, while those eating refined grains decreased their intake from 1.3 ounces to 0.3 ounces. Overall, both groups met the recommended daily grain intake of 6.4 ounces. Who this helps: This benefits middle school students and their families by encouraging healthier eating habits.

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This study looked at how eating foods with added oligofructose (OF), such as yogurt and snack bars, affects how often healthy young adults have bowel movements. Over eight weeks, men’s stool frequency increased from 1.3 to 1.8 times a day, and women’s increased from 1.0 to 1.4 times a day after they ate OF, while those who didn’t eat OF saw no significant change. Although OF improved regularity, it also led to increased gastrointestinal symptoms, particularly gas, suggesting that while it helps with bowel frequency, some digestive discomfort might persist. Who this helps: This research benefits healthy young adults looking to improve their digestive health.

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This study looked at how different styles of serving puréed foods—scooped versus molded—affected how well younger and older adults recognized and liked these foods. It found that younger adults could identify puréed foods more accurately than older adults, and that scooped puréed foods were generally preferred over molded ones. This matters because improving the acceptability of puréed foods can enhance the dining experience for those who need them due to swallowing difficulties. Who this helps: This helps patients with dysphagia and their caregivers.

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This study looked at how eating canned chickpeas affects digestion and gastrointestinal symptoms in healthy adults. Over three weeks, participants consumed either control foods, foods with a small amount of raffinose, or foods with a significant amount of canned chickpeas. While eating canned chickpeas did lead to some mild flatulence (rated 1.0 out of 3) compared to control foods (0.4), it didn't change how often people had bowel movements or cause major discomfort. This is important because it shows that including canned chickpeas in the diet can be a manageable way to boost dietary fiber without serious side effects. Who this helps: This helps patients looking to improve their diet with more fiber-rich foods.

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This study looked at how different methods of fixing fractures in the growth plate of the thigh bone (femur) might contribute to potential complications, particularly the formation of a "physeal bar" which can affect bone growth. Researchers used a rabbit model and found that only a small number of animals (seven percent for one pin type and 13% for another) developed these bars, showing that different pin placements did not significantly change the risk. This is important because it indicates that using smooth pins can safely stabilize fractures in a way that minimizes damage, helping to preserve normal growth in young patients. Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly children with distal femoral fractures, by reducing the risk of complications affecting their growth.

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This study looked at the effects of adding fiber to the diets of people with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The researchers found that adding 23 grams of fiber per day increased stool frequency from about 1.3 to 1.6 stools per day and decreased total cholesterol levels from 175 to 167 mg/dL, which is significant. While people did not report a change in overall quality of life, some aspects like physical health improved, showing that increasing fiber can help with digestive issues and heart health in CKD patients. Who this helps: Patients with chronic kidney disease.

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This research paper looks at the health benefits of eating peas, particularly green and yellow peas. It found that peas are packed with nutrients like protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which can help with digestion, lower blood sugar levels, and prevent certain nutrient deficiencies. For instance, the fiber in peas supports gut health, while certain compounds in them may help lower cholesterol and reduce cancer risks. Who this helps: This research benefits patients seeking healthier diet options and doctors recommending nutritious foods.

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This study looked at how eating whole-grain foods affects gut and immune health in adolescents compared to refined-grain foods. After 6 weeks, those who ate whole grains had higher levels of beneficial bacteria in their stools, with lactic acid bacteria increasing from 2.4 to 3.0 log(10) genome equivalents. While both types of grains helped improve overall antioxidant levels and reduce inflammation markers, whole grains had a more positive impact on gut health. Who this helps: This helps adolescents and their health by promoting better digestion and immune responses.