Bacteria & the Gut

Information on bacteria that affect the digestive system and cause foodborne illnesses. Articles cover beneficial gut bacteria alongside pathogens like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria.

Bacillus Cereus, Cereals and Rice

Bacillus cereus bacteria hide in rice and cereals, survive cooking and refrigeration, and cause food poisoning if rice isn't cooled before storage.

E. Coli Food Poisoning

E. coli food poisoning happens when harmful bacterial strains contaminate food, often undercooked meat, and can cause intestinal bleeding and kidney damage.

Friendly Bacteria in the Digestive System

Your gut hosts trillions of friendly bacteria that protect you from harmful infections and keep your digestive system working properly.

H Pylori and Stomach Ulcers

How H. pylori bacteria causes most stomach ulcers, overturning decades of mistaken beliefs about stress and diet.

Listeria and the Dangers in Pregnancy

Pregnant women face serious risks from listeria, a bacteria that thrives in soft cheeses and refrigerated foods without cooking.

Salmonella Food Poisoning

What causes salmonella food poisoning, which foods carry the risk, and how to spot symptoms within 12 to 36 hours.

Shigella in the Developing World

Shigella bacteria causes a million deaths yearly in developing countries, mostly among children through contaminated water and food.

What Is Botulism?

Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by a deadly toxin produced by bacteria, with three different types depending on how you're exposed.

What Is Cholera?

Cholera is a bacterial infection that causes severe dehydration through extreme diarrhoea and can kill within hours without treatment.

Which Bacterium Causes Typhus?

Rickettsia and other bacteria cause typhus, transmitted by lice, fleas, and mites, not to be confused with typhoid fever.