COVID-19 affects gut health, say Washington researchers

The 13th Gut Microbiota for Health Summit in Washington, DC, presented new research on the effects of COVID-19 on gut health. A study found that children who had COVID-19 showed a decrease in beneficial gut bacteria compared to those who did not. Researchers also examined plant and dairy foods, discovering that nearly half contained S100B, a protein that may support gut health. This could lead to new dietary supplements aimed at improving gut microbiome health. Additionally, a meta-analysis indicated that probiotics significantly reduced abdominal pain and bloating after colonoscopy, although they did not affect nausea or constipation. This suggests probiotics may aid recovery for patients undergoing the procedure.