The Food Additive in Yogurt that Turns Your Gut Bacteria against You

Before you eat another spoonful of that yogurt, or even that plant-based yogurt, you’ll want to keep reading. And, you’ll also want to flip the container around and check the ingredient list for a commonly-used nanoparticle that may turn your gut bacteria into disease-causing microbes.

Titanium dioxide is found in many common foods especially yogurt and vegan yogurt. Sadly, new research shows that this common food additive turns gut bacteria into weapons of disease. I’ll share the research, explain its significance and share common sources of titanium dioxide that are best avoided altogether.

New research in the medical journal Frontiers in Nutrition found that the food additive could cause dysbiosis—detrimental changes in gut microbes and inflammation that may lead to disease. And, a growing body of research links harmful changes in gut microbes and gut inflammation to many serious chronic diseases. Good health, or bad health, as the case may be primarily begins in the gut.

The scientists also found that titanium dioxide could contribute to the formation of biofilms in the gut. Biofilms are sticky substances secreted by harmful bacteria to encourage their growth and to prevent the body’s immune system from being able to kill the infectious bacteria. Biofilms are often behind resistant infections that are hard to treat. 

The type of gut alterations resulting from ingesting titanium dioxide, such as mucus layer thickness, increased intestinal permeability (which may be a factor in many auto-immune disorders) and biofilms have been implicated in a wide range of diseases, including colitis and colorectal cancer.

Another recent study published in the medical journal Environmental Science: Nano, found that the common food additive altered the healthy functioning of cells in the gut, causing inflammation, increased mucus secretion and disrupting the intestines’ natural ability to protect itself.

Earlier research in the journal Scientific Reports found that the food additive also led to the formation of colon cancer tumors.

Titanium dioxide is primarily used in food to deepen a color or to make light-colored foods appear whiter, giving the illusion of purity or desirability.

In a study published in Environmental Science and Technology, researchers found the metal nanoparticles in common candies, chewing gums, frostings, puddings, chocolates, coffee creamer, lemonade and other beverages, cookies, marshmallows and donuts.

In addition to the wide range of food products that contain nanoparticles of metal known as titanium dioxide, many consumer products also contain this harmful ingredient, including: cosmetics, toothpastes, sunscreens, creams and lotions, shampoos, deodorants and shaving creams. Even pharmaceutical drugs often contain this suspect ingredient.

It is best to avoid titanium dioxide and the foods containing this harmful metal nanoparticle. The best way to do that is to read ingredient labels on food items and avoid those containing it.

While most skincare and beauty products don’t list ingredients on their labels, it is best to seek out natural options that clearly indicate that they don’t use these types of nanoparticles. There are some excellent natural products, but since the word “natural” isn’t adequately regulated, be aware that many companies may claim that their products are natural when they are filled with toxic ingredients. Ideally, look for personal care and cosmetic products with full disclosure, in the form of ingredient lists, on their packaging.