Our gut houses trillions of beneficial bacteria. These organisms perform thousands of vital functions for us, including preventing and/or reducing the symptoms of nearly 200 diseases. It was recently discovered that certain strains of bacteria can even destroy toxic chemicals.
Bisphenol A (BPA): This is pervasive petrochemical derivative that has been found to have potent endocrine (hormone) disrupting properties. BPA is found in plastics (including food packaging), canned food, paper currency, toilet paper, and thermal-printed cash register receipts.
Probiotics containing the gut bacteria Bifidobacterium breve and Lactobacillus casei have been shown to decreasing intestinal absorption of BPA. Strains of bacteria found in kimchi (traditional Korean fermented cabbage) have actually been found to degrade (breakdown) BPA.
Pesticides: Bacteria found in kimchi have also been found to degrade toxic pesticides, including Chlorpyriphos, Coumaphos, Diazinon, Parathion, and Methylparathion.
