Tag: Nutrient malabsorption

While activated charcoal is used in hospital emergency rooms for specific medical purposes, the rising trend of consuming charcoal in foods and supplements has prompted a critical question: is it bad to eat a lot of charcoal? The answer is a definitive yes, particularly when discussing non-medical use or consuming common grilling charcoal, which is highly toxic.

According to the World Health Organization, malnutrition is the most common cause of secondary immunodeficiency globally. Secondary deficiencies are conditions where an external or underlying factor, rather than a genetic one, impairs the body's function, leading to a shortage of a particular nutrient, antibody, or other vital component.

According to the National Institutes of Health, up to 20% of adults aged 60 and over may have a vitamin B12 deficiency, often due to malabsorption rather than a poor diet. Knowing if your body is properly absorbing this vital nutrient is critical for maintaining your health.

While a small amount of hydrogen sulfide is normal in the gut, an overgrowth of sulfate-reducing bacteria can produce excessive amounts, triggering severe symptoms in those with SIBO. For these individuals, understanding what foods are high in sulfur for SIBO is a crucial step toward managing their condition and mitigating uncomfortable digestive issues.

According to the National Institutes of Health, diarrheal disease is a major cause of malnutrition, as it can cause malabsorption of essential nutrients. When the digestive system is in distress, the rapid transit of food and fluids can prevent the body from properly absorbing the vitamins and minerals it needs.

According to a 2024 study, patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) often have lower folate levels compared to healthy individuals. The potential for IBS to cause low folate levels is a significant concern for those managing the chronic condition, as it can compound symptoms like fatigue and mood changes.

According to the World Health Organization, protein-energy malnutrition is one of the most widespread nutritional problems among children in developing nations, leading to severe health complications like kwashiorkor. While rare in developed countries, an inability to consume protein can lead to a cascade of detrimental health effects across all body systems.

While dietary guidelines for Americans state that over 90% of women and 97% of men do not meet their recommended fiber intake, it is possible to consume too much. So, are there any downsides to fiber, and what happens when you go overboard with this important nutrient?

While activated charcoal is a proven emergency treatment for certain poisonings in a hospital setting, its daily use as a dietary supplement is not recommended by medical professionals and lacks robust scientific support.

According to research, magnesium deficiency is detected in nearly 20% of untreated celiac patients, and this can persist even with a gluten-free diet. The damaged intestinal lining in individuals with celiac disease impairs the body's ability to absorb essential nutrients, including magnesium. Thus, many people with celiac should take magnesium, but it is important to understand the best ways to do so.