Opublikowane przez Statum Nutrition w International Journal of General Medicine and Expert Opinion on Biological Therapy badanie włoskiego zespołu naukowców wykazało, że doustny probiotyk BLIS K12 może zminimalizować u dzieci ryzyko wystąpienia infekcji ucha i gardła, takich jak zapalenie ucha środkowego (o 40%) i zapalenie migdałków (o 90%). Opublikowane zostało również badanie dotyczące możliwości redukcji częstotliwości angin lub zapalenia migdałków u dorosłych. Read more

Taking probiotics has benefits for patients in hospitals

Source: Science Blog

Patients in hospital who are on antibiotics may benefit from taking probiotics, according to researchers at St. Michael’s Hospital. Read more.

Study: Bad Teeth, Gums, Major Problem

Source: Voice of America

"A new report says nearly four-billion people – more than half the world’s population – have major tooth decay, or cavities. Health officials warn that poor oral health can lead to social and psychological problems. Professor Wagner Marcenes led of team of researchers as part of the Global Burden of Disease 2010 study. It listed untreated tooth decay, or cavities, as the most common of all 291 major diseases and injuries." Read more on tooth decay.

Tooth decay Still a Major Problem for Billions Around the World

Source: RedOrbit (30 May 2013)

"A new report led by Professor Wagner Marcenes of the Institute of Dentistry at Queen Mary shows that oral conditions may affect as many as 3.9 billion people worldwide – more than half the total global population. Together with an international research team investing oral health as part of the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2010 study, Marcenes found that untreated tooth decay or cavities in permanent teeth – also known as dental caries – were the most common of all 291 major diseases and injuries included in the study. The Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study began in the spring of 2007. It included nearly 500 scientists carrying out a complete systematic assessment of global data on all diseases and injuries. Tooth decay alone, the report noted, affects some 35 percent of the world’s population." Read more.

Obesity Linked to Bad Breath

Source: Live Science (26 March 2013)

"Doctors from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles say certain gas-emitting microbes living in the human gut might determine one's propensity for packing on too many pounds; and the presence of methane and hydrogen on one's breath from these microbes is closely related to excess body weight and body fat." Read more on bad breath. 

Pediatricians reported 'caving' to parental pressure to prescribe antibiotics

Source:childrens Hospital of Pittsburgh (10 May 2013)

WASHINGTON — Jason G. Newland, MD, director of the Antibiotic Stewardship Program at The Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, discusses the problem of primary care pediatricians “caving” into parental pressure to prescribe antibiotics.

Stronger Antibiotics Linked With Bacteria Evolving Resistance Faster

Source:naturalworldnews

Combining various antibiotics will not help kill bacteria and in fact, help the bacteria evolve resistance to the drug combination faster, a new study says.
The study included researchers from University of Exeter and Kiel University in Germany. The team first treated E-coli with various combinations of antibiotics.
They found that the bacteria evolved resistance more quickly if it was treated with a strong combination of antibiotics. Researchers say that the bacteria thrive under aggressive treatments. This happens because the strong antibiotics kill all non-resistant bacteria, so the resistant forms of bacteria have very less competition and can multiply faster. Read  more.

As Bird Flu Spreads to Taiwan, Governments Act to Prepare

Source: New York Times, 24 April 2013

BEIJING — The new strain of avian influenza that has infected more than 100 people in China in the last two months has, for the first time, been reported outside mainland China. Read more on Bird Flu.

Mutant Swine Flu Returns to Australia

Source: News, 03 April 2013

IT's back, it's uglier than ever and it has more than four million Australians in its sights. Read more on swine flu. 

2 in China first known deaths from H7N9 bird flu; doctors: no evidence of human transmission

Source: Washington Post (01 April 2013)

BEIJING — Two Shanghai men have died from a lesser-known type of bird flu in the first known human deaths from the strain, and Chinese authorities said Sunday that it wasn’t clear how they were infected, but that there was no evidence of human-to-human transmission.

A third person, a woman in the nearby province of Anhui, also contracted the H7N9 strain of bird flu and was in critical condition, China’s National Health and Family Planning Commission said in a report on its website. Read more.

 Antibiotic-Resistant Nightmare Bacteria on Rise in US

Source:Nutra Ingredients-USA.com

Read more...

Why Your Teeth Are Crucial to Your Health

Source: Mens Fitness, 30 March 2013

Don't get complacent with your dental care. Mismanaging your mouth could be killing your sex life—and much more. Read more on periondontal disease. 

Resistance to antibiotics now kills more people than AIDS

Source: Treehugger, 25 Mar 2013

The World Health Organization recently said resistance to antibiotics might be the end of modern medicine; people could die after routine operations or when a simple scrape on the knee becomes infected.
In fact, we're already seeing all sorts of antibiotic-resistant infections claim lives and strain the healthcare system. The most common, MRSA, alone kills about 18,000 people a year in the United States—that's more than AIDS. Gonorrhea is also on the verge of being untreatable, and many common antibiotics no longer cure urinary tract infections. Read more.

105 U.S. Kids Died From Flu, CDC Says

Source: ABC News

The flu season is winding down, and it has killed 105 children so far — about the average toll.

The season started about a month earlier than usual, sparking concerns it might turn into the worst in a decade. It ended up being very hard on the elderly, but was moderately severe overall, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Read more.

Oral Health Day marked with attention on child dental decay

Source: MC Modern Ghana (20 Mar 2013)

Ghana has joined the world to mark Oral Health Day on Wednesday, with the Health Ministry emphasizing the need to pay attention to the high rate of dental decay among children.

The day which is used to ignite awareness and take stock of oral health, is also used to encourage governments to take action and help reduce the global burden of oral disease.

Ghana observed the day with the focus “healthy teeth for healthy life”. According to a new report by the Health Ministry, 60 to 90 per cent of children in Ghana are affected by dental decay annually. Read more

Antibiotic resistance a "catastrophic threat": UK medical chief

Source: Reuters (10 March 2013)

"Antibiotic resistance poses a catastrophic threat to medicine and could mean patients having minor surgery risk dying from infections that can no longer be treated, Britain's top health official said on Monday." Read more (antibiotic resistance)

Study: Getting flu shot 2 years in a row may lower protection

Source: Robert Roos News Editor, Mar 1, 2013 (CIDRAP News)  

"Experts are puzzled by a new study in which influenza vaccination seemed to provide little or no protection against flu in the 2010-11 season—and in which the only participants who seemed to benefit from the vaccine were those who hadn't been vaccinated the season before."

"The investigators recruited 328 households in Michigan before the flu season started and followed them through the season. Overall, they found that the infection risk was nearly the same in vaccinated and unvaccinated participants, indicating no significant vaccine-induced protection, according to their report in Clinical Infectious Diseases. That contrasted sharply with several other observational studies that found the vaccine to yield about 60% protection during the same season." Read more

3 More Oklahomans Die From the Flu 

Source:  Tulsa World

Three more Oklahomans died from the flu this past week, but the number of hospitalizations reported remained stable, health officials said.

Seventeen people in Oklahoma have died from the flu this season. Four of those deaths have been in Tulsa County, which has by far the most hospitalizations at 216, according to the Oklahoma State Department of Health.

Read more from this Tulsa World  Flu article

"The surgical removal of the appendix and tonsils before the age of 20 was associated with an increased risk of premature heart attack in a large population study performed in Sweden.

Tonsillectomy increased the risk by 44% (hazard ratio 1.44) and appendectomy by 33% (HR 1.33).

The risk increases were just statistically significant, and were even higher when the tonsils and appendix were both removed. However, there was no risk association evident when the operations were performed in people over the age of 20."

"Both the appendix and tonsils are lymphoid organs and thus components of the body's immune system, albeit of modest importance. The recurrence of tonsillitis and appendicitis - caused by infection - are the usual reasons for removal. Behind the study lay evidence that removal was associated with moderate long-term effects on the immune system and alterations in risk for some autoimmune disorders." To read more, click on TONSILLITIS 

IMMUNE SYSTEM

How Does BLIS K12™ Work to Support Your Immune System?

Support immune to fight winter illnesses (cold and flu).

The human body is an amazingly complex machinery that can naturally fight back against cold and flu viruses. It needs a healthy immune system to do this task.

The immune system is a complex system that protects the body against organisms or substances that might cause diseases.

The power or strength of your body’s natural defence system determines your body’s ability to resist infection. If your system is not operating at maximum capacity, you are more likely to get sick, and less likely to have a speedy recovery.

Consumption of BLIS K12™ stimulates production of interferon gamma, a cytokine that is critical for innate and adaptive immunity against viral and intracellular bacterial infections.

Winter Illnesses like Cold and Flu.

You and a friend are in a crowded room and immediately notice two people coughing and sneezing. Within a few days you come down with a bad cold and you blame it on that crowded room. Yet your friend, also exposed to the same germs at the same time, remains healthy. Why? 

It is the power of your immune system. It's a network that can help us avoid illness, or sometimes become the underlying reason we get sick.

"The strength of our immune system is what makes the difference between who gets sick and who doesn't. The one with the immune system functioning below base-line normal has an increased risk of getting sick," says Woodson Merrell, MD, director of integrative medicine at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City.

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For more information on the human immune system, watch the video below:

Source: Minnesota Public Radio

"ST. PAUL, Minn. — The state health department and Minnesota health systems say this could be the worst flu season they've seen in years, with flu case numbers so far rivaling those seen during the 2009 H1N1 pandemic.  Hospitalizations are up, and some Twin Cities area hospitals are at or near capacity due to a surge in flu" 

Antibiotics' effect on chest infections queried

Source: Irish Health.com

Chest infections are very common at this time of year. However, a new study has found that an antibiotic commonly prescribed for some of these infections does not work, even in older patients. Read more.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________ 

UAE residents' growing resistance to antibiotics... cause and effects

Resistance to antibiotics is on the rise and a common symptom among patients in the UAE. Overuse is one of the reasons. You can better be safe than sorry, they say. Especially when it comes to people’s health, this wisdom is happily applied. Medicine are high in supply as well as demand in health world. But about the effectiveness not everybody agrees.

Antibiotics are one of the most commonly prescribed medications all around the world. When a patient suffers from fever, diarrhea, or even a running nose the antibiotics box pops open, and the illness is battled with this strong antidote. Read more on resistance to antibiotics.

Dental Health is Paramount

Source: The Observer

Our teeth are one of our most important body parts. After all, would you like to live without them?

"Dental and oral care in general are very important, not just because of the obvious impact on our appearance, but also because of the growing evidence of association between oral health and general health and well-being," said Gladstone dentist PJ Sobhanian.

Mr Sobhanian said the most common problems he saw were gingivitis, bad breath, erosion and decay. Read more

Getting Smart About Antibiotics

Source: Military.com

"Antibiotic resistance is a worldwide public health problem. The misuse and overuse of antibiotics is believed to be the cause of this antibiotic resistance among bacteria. You can prevent antibiotic" Read more on antibiotics

 High Flu Activity in the US Leaves 3 Children Dead 

Source: Fox News

"Flu activity is up this week in the U.S. and is responsible for the deaths of three children, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC reported that out of 5,511 specimens tested between Nov. 25 and Dec. 1, 20 percent, or 1,139 were positive for the influenza virus. Three pediatric deaths associated with influenza were reported – one linked with influenza B and two with influenza A." Read more on flu. 

New Study Suggests Probiotics May Help Students

Source: The Sophian

"A recent study conducted by a team of researchers at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey over a period of 12 weeks has shown that certain probiotics might help modulate the body’s immune response."

"The recruited research subjects were “apparently healthy” college students living on campus in residence halls at Framingham University. All subjects were administered either a placebo or a powder containing two probiotic strains and asked to refrain from consuming other probiotic foods or supplements."

"The results, published in the British Journal of Nutrition, seem fairly conclusive at first glance: while both the probiotics and the placebo group caught colds at the same rate, the median duration of the cold was 33 percent longer in the placebo group compared to the probiotics group. The severity of the symptoms decreased by 34 percent in the probiotics group, and the probiotics group missed an average of 15 school days compared to the 34 for the placebo group."  Read more- probiotics 

Dental Health, Pregnancy and the Baby

Source: Ocala.com

"There is a clear link between good dental health and good overall health outcomes for pregnant women and their babies. That explains why the Marion County Health Department is so excited about a new state grant that allows the department to provide dental care to women who qualify for the Healthy Start program."

“Some studies have linked gum disease to preterm births, so we are excited to be able to expand dental services to the women who need them,” said Dr. Nathan Grossman, head of the Health Department, in prepared remarks. Read more on Dental Health.

All Signs Indicate That This Flu Season Is Going To Be Brutal

Source: Business Insider Science

"The flu season could be especially bad this year, and is one of the earliest-starting flu seasons in a decade, said Thomas Frieden, Director of the Centers for Disease Control." Read more on flu.

U.S- Flu Season Arrives Early

Source: ABC News

"Flu season arrived early this year. And according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it's shaping up to be a bad one." Read more on flu. 

Cedar County child diagnosed with swine flu.

Source: Globe Gazette

"Cedar County health officials are stepping up flu surveillance since a child there was diagnosed with a flu virus normally found in pigs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed the H3N2v influenza A strain in the child. State epidemiologist Dr. Patricia Quinlisk said the child, who has since recovered, had not been in contact with swine, one of the modes of transmission." Read more on this swine flu

Columbia St. Mary's receives $200,000 grant to investigate the connection between oral healthcare and poor birth outcomes. 

Source: Milwaukee Courier.

How Can BLIS K12™ Help You Remedy Bad Breath?

There may be other reasons for bad breath so it is difficult to claim "cure bad breath" but for most people (more than 85% of those whose who have bad breath), the single most frequent cause of bad breath is bacteria that live in their mouth.There are products in the market tongue cleaners and mouthwash. These are a temporary fix to your problem. Did you know that when you use mouthwash to prevent bad breath, you kill ALL bacteria? Did you know that your body has more good bacteria than bad bacteria? 

BLIS K12™ FRESH BREATH KIT IS THE ANSWER- 100% SATISFACTION OR MONEY BACK GUARANTEE

BLIS K12™ is worlds only probiotic for the mouth and throat.

BLIS K12™ Fresh Breath Kit contains the beneficial oral bacteria Streptococcus salivarius K12 that promotes and maintains fresh breath!

BLIS K12™ Fresh Breath Kit will help to restore the mouth's balance of bacteria to that found in the mouths of people with healthy breath. BLIS K12 ™ Fresh Breath Kit is unique as it promotes and maintains fresh breath, rather than temporarily masking the problem odours.

BLIS K12™ Fresh Breath Kit is clinically proven to promote long term fresh breath. The majority of sufferers of chronic bad breath showed significant improvement in their overall breath score after using BLIS K12™ Fresh Breath Kit.

All good high strength anti-bacterial mouthwash kills most bacteria. You may think this is good news for your bad breath. However, the problem is that it also kills good or beneficial bacteria. Mouthwash does not distinguish between bad or beneficial bacteria.

Important Notice:

BLIS K12 ™ Fresh Breath Kit also contains a high strength anti-bacterial mouthwash which is designed to kill the odour causing bacteria.  Like any other high strength anti-bacterial mouthwash, it also does not distinguish between good or bad bacteria.  

After using a traditional mouthwash, both beneficial and "bad" bacteria will re-populate or grow again in the mouth to pre - mouthwash levels.

Why BLIS K12™? What is the point of difference?

BLIS K12™ Fresh Breath Kit also contains BLIS K12™ lozenges full of good bacteria that will help repopulate your mouth and throat with high numbers of beneficial BLIS K12™ Streptococcus salivarius, a bacteria demonstrated to reduce bad breath.

Unlike a traditional mouthwash, BLIS K12™ Fresh Breath Kit provides a long term effective control of bad breath (halitosis). 

To maintain good oral hygiene, the BLIS K12™ Fresh Breath Kit also contains a tongue cleaning tool.

Buy BLIS K12™ Fresh Breath Kit   

What is BLIS K12™ Probiotic?

Links

Increasing numbers of us use it, but mouthwash can actually make bad breath even WORSE.

Source: Mail Online (June 2013)

Dr Stemmer says: 'Around 85 per cent of people who use mouthwashes do so because they think they have bad breath. However, mouthwash won't cure bad breath - it'll only ever help on a very temporary basis. Read more on bad breath

Bad Breath Explained

Source: www.doctoroz.com

"Ninety percent of people between the ages of 16 and 40 feel that having bad breath is “the worst social mistake one can make,” according to a recent study. So what causes this embarrassing condition and what can you do about it?"

"Bad breath is caused by the excretion of the anaerobic bacteria that live within your mouth. These anaerobic bacteria (bacteria that do not need oxygen to survive) excrete sulfur compounds. These sulfur compounds ignite the bad-breath brushfire. The rotten egg smell (hydrogen sulfide) and the barnyard smell (methyl mercaptan) are known as VSCs  – volatile sulfur compounds. The key word here is volatile."

"Some people have worse breath than others. Even the most diligent VSC-fighter could still possess bad breath. That’s because, for reasons that have never been figured out, some of us are just blessed with the ability to produce fewer anaerobic bacteria than others." Read more on bad breath.

keywords:

How do you get bad breath? Read above. Bad taste in mouth. Bad breath? How can I cure bad breath? The cure for bad breath. What is the cause for bad breath? A cure for bad breath. How to cure a bad breath? What the cause of bad breath? What are causes of bad breath?

BLIS M18™ is a totally new approach to managing oral hygiene.

BLIS M18™ is a patented oral probiotic providing advanced protection for teeth and gums.

BLIS M18™ was developed from a specific strain of S. salivarius (a common and beneficial oral bacteria) and has been clinically proven to promote the health of the oral cavity by continuously supporting and promoting the health of teeth and gums.

Dental cavities, bad breath, gum disease...Dental Cost!

Common problems people often experience in their oral cavity, such as dental cavities, bad breath or gum disease, can result from an imbalance of our oral bacteria. BLIS M18™ is a new generation of advanced probiotic, containing friendly bacteria that can be used in conjunction with regular oral hygiene practices to establish a healthy balance of bacteria in the mouth and naturally protect the teeth and gums from oral and dental pathogens.

BLIS M18™ PROBIOTICS- OVER 36 YEARS OF RESEARCH.

News: 

Dismay at tooth decay in Kiwi Kids

Source: stuff.co.nz

Toddlers as young as two years old are having all their teeth removed and hospitals are struggling to keep up with dental surgery as sugary drinks take a huge toll on children's teeth.

A new government report on dental care has for the first time revealed the full extent of the problem: 34,000 children under 14 had teeth removed due to decay or infection in 2012.

Dental surgery services are so stretched, there are reports of waiting lists of up to 100 children at some hospitals.

In the worst cases, dentists are forced to extract a mouthful of baby teeth from preschoolers, often because toddlers are given bottles of juice or fizzy drinks. Read more on tooth decay.

Why Your Teeth Are Crucial to Your Health

Source: Mens Fitness, 30 March 2013

Don't get complacent with your dental care. Mismanaging your mouth could be killing your sex life—and much more. Read more on periondontal disease.

Billions of bacteria live on the tongue. To maintain good oral hygiene, the BLIS K12™ Fresh Breath Kit also contains a tongue cleaning tool.

RESEARCH: Here is an independent study done in Switzerland. "Antimicrobial activity of Streptococcus salivarius K12 on bacteria involved in oral malodour"

The short answer is NO. Pathogenic or disease-causing bacteria make up, at most, about 30 percent of the total bacteria in the body. The remaining 70 percent are good or helpful bacteria. When we take antibiotics, we destroy the 70 percent that is good, just in order to kill the 30 percent that is harmful.

In the past 60 years, antibiotics have been critical in the fight against infectious disease caused by bacteria and other microbes. However, disease-causing microbes that have become resistant to antibiotic drug therapy are an increasing public health problem. Wound infections, gonorrhea, tuberculosis, pneumonia, septicemia and childhood ear infections are just a few of the diseases that have become hard to treat with antibiotics. One part of the problem is that bacteria and other microbes that cause infections are remarkably resilient and have developed several ways to resist antibiotics and other antimicrobial drugs. This problem is due to increasing use, and misuse, of existing antibiotics in human and veterinary medicine and in agriculture.

In 1998, in the United States, 80 million prescriptions of antibiotics for human use were filled. This equals 12,500 tons in one year. Agricultural practices account for over 60% of antibiotic usage in the U.S., so this adds an additional 18,000 tons per year to the antibiotic burden in the environment.

Nowadays, about 70 percent of the bacteria that cause infections in hospitals are resistant to at least one of the drugs most commonly used for treatment (2011 Kenneth Todar, PhD).

Antibiotic-Resistant Nightmare Bacteria on Rise in US

Resistance to antibiotics now kills more people than AIDS

Source: Treehugger, 25 Mar 2013

The World Health Organization recently said resistance to antibiotics might be the end of modern medicine; people could die after routine operations or when a simple scrape on the knee becomes infected.
In fact, we're already seeing all sorts of antibiotic-resistant infections claim lives and strain the healthcare system. The most common, MRSA, alone kills about 18,000 people a year in the United States—that's more than AIDS. Gonorrhea is also on the verge of being untreatable, and many common antibiotics no longer cure urinary tract infections. Read more.

Rise in Superbugs Threatens Antibiotic Crisis 

Source:  The Guardian

Lethal drug-resistant organisms mean threat must be listed on register of civil emergencies, says chief medical officer. 

An extraordinary scene plays out in hospitals across Britain that is a harbinger of crisis ahead. Patients brought in for routine operations pick up infections that until recent times seemed trivial. Now they can be killers. Even the most modern, and powerful, antibiotics can no longer save them.

The story of the superbug MRSA raised awareness of the growing uselessness of antibiotics, but that has been brought largely under control through better hygiene, at least in the UK. Read more on this( superbugs.)

Getting Smart About Antibiotics

Source: Military.com

"Antibiotic resistance is a worldwide public health problem. The misuse and overuse of antibiotics is believed to be the cause of this antibiotic resistance among bacteria. You can prevent antibiotic" Read more on antibiotics

NOVEMBER 2012

Antibiotics are losing their effectiveness at an 'alarming and irreversible' rate

Source: MailOnline

"GPs have been warned not to freely hand-out antibiotics over concerns that they are losing their effectiveness at an 'alarming and irreversible' rate. The number of prescriptions has risen by ten per cent in the last five years and a third of all Britons have taken them in the last 12 months. Research suggests the rise is due to doctors yielding to over-demanding patients. But experts from the Health Protection Agency warn that the overuse of antibiotics has led to a rise in resistant bacteria." Read more (antibiotics..)

Sure, coughs and colds are nasty, but antibiotics are not the answer

Source: Chicago Tribune

"The prescribing of antibiotics is highest for young children. But, antibiotics need to be used appropriately in order to ensure that they're effective, as well as to prevent antibiotic resistance". Read More

Less than half of Americans recognize antibiotic overuse as a problem

Source: CBS News

"Part of the growing problem of antibiotic resistance in the United States may be attributed to the fact that many Americans don't know what the drugs should be used for and what they can actually do."

"Only 44 percent of surveyed Americans recognized as "somewhat or a big problem" that some diseases are becoming resistant to antibiotics, compared to 78 percent of survey takers recognizing the problems of obesity. While nine out of 10 Americans recognize that antibiotics can fight bacterial infections like strep throat, more than one third falsely think that they are also effective at fighting viral infections like the common cold." Read more.

Officials and groups are joining forces to address antibiotic resistance

Source: USA Today

"Antibiotic use in the United States is dropping, but it is dropping most slowly in states that use the drugs the most – widening regional gaps that may be putting people in some Southeastern states at heightened risk for infections that no longer respond to antibiotics, a new analysis shows.Researchers aren't just guessing at the danger: They also have new data showing that urinary tract infections have became more resistant to antibiotics and that the problem is worst in regions where use is highest." Read More

Antibiotics: friend or foe?

Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

The overuse of antibiotics not only boosts health care costs but causes bacterial resistance to the drugs -- and possibly health problems in childhood. Read more on bacterial eesistance to antibiotics

Note: The information provided below and the links provided have not been verified by BLIS Technologies.

Link Between Gum Disease and Diabetes

Source: NBCLatino

"A recent study by Harris Interactive says 95 percent of people living with diabetes have gum disease compared to 50 percent of the general population. More than one third of people with diabetes are not aware of the link between diabetes and oral health, 54 percent say they have symptoms of gum disease, and 67 percent do not discuss their oral health with their doctor" . Read more on Gum Disease and Diabetes

Gum Disease And Diabetes

Source: American Academy of Periodontology

" Diabetic patients are more likely to develop periodontal disease, which in turn can increase blood sugar and diabetic complications."

"People with diabetes are more likely to have periodontal disease than people without diabetes"

"Research has suggested that the relationship between periodontal disease and diabetes goes both ways - periodontal disease may make it more difficult for people who have diabetes to control their blood sugar." Read more on Gum Disease and Diabetes

Source: Health-and-Disease.org

In short afraid to kiss, and you need find out how cure halitosis, then it is important to understand what causes bad breath.Not garlicy' breath, but real foul breath caused by bacteria, technically termed halitosis. Read more on "Curing Halitosis"

Link Between Gum Disease and Diabetes

Source: NBCLatino

"A recent study by Harris Interactive says 95 percent of people living with diabetes have gum disease compared to 50 percent of the general population. More than one third of people with diabetes are not aware of the link between diabetes and oral health, 54 percent say they have symptoms of gum disease, and 67 percent do not discuss their oral health with their doctor". Read more

Antibiotics are losing their effectiveness at an 'alarming and irreversible' rate

Source: MailOnline

"GPs have been warned not to freely hand-out antibiotics over concerns that they are losing their effectiveness at an 'alarming and irreversible' rate. The number of prescriptions has risen by ten per cent in the last five years and a third of all Britons have taken them in the last 12 months. Research suggests the rise is due to doctors yielding to over-demanding patients. But experts from the Health Protection Agency warn that the overuse of antibiotics has led to a rise in resistant bacteria." Read more (antibiotics..)

Sure, coughs and colds are nasty, but antibiotics are not the answer

Source: Chicago Tribune

"The prescribing of antibiotics is highest for young children. But, antibiotics need to be used appropriately in order to ensure that they're effective, as well as to prevent antibiotic resistance". Read More

 Less than half of Americans recognize antibiotic overuse as a problem

Source: CBS News

"Part of the growing problem of antibiotic resistance in the United States may be attributed to the fact that many Americans don't know what the drugs should be used for and what they can actually do."

"Only 44 percent of surveyed Americans recognized as "somewhat or a big problem" that some diseases are becoming resistant to antibiotics, compared to 78 percent of survey takers recognizing the problems of obesity. While nine out of 10 Americans recognize that antibiotics can fight bacterial infections like strep throat, more than one third falsely think that they are also effective at fighting viral infections like the common cold." Read more.

 Officials and groups are joining forces to address antibiotic resistance

Source: USA Today

"Antibiotic use in the United States is dropping, but it is dropping most slowly in states that use the drugs the most – widening regional gaps that may be putting people in some Southeastern states at heightened risk for infections that no longer respond to antibiotics, a new analysis shows.Researchers aren't just guessing at the danger: They also have new data showing that urinary tract infections have became more resistant to antibiotics and that the problem is worst in regions where use is highest." Read More

Early Flu Cases

Source: LaCrosseTribune.com

"Four influenza cases have been treated in La Crosse hospitals in the past two weeks, which is earlier than normal but doesn't necessarily signal a tough season ahead, according to health officials."

"I don't have a crystal ball," said Bridget Pfaff, an infection control specialist at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center, which has treated three outpatient cases in the past two weeks...Read more

Dental practice offers free oral cancer screening checks

(Source: Dentistry IQ)

DENTISTS in a North-East town are offering free oral screening checks as part of efforts to pick up the early signs of mouth cancer.

The team at Oasis Dental care in Woodlands Road, Darlington, is supporting Mouth Cancer Action Month by checking for symptoms of a disease that without early detection could claim 30,000 lives over the next decade.

Mouth Cancer Action Month is organised by the British Dental Health Foundation and supported by an educational grant from Denplan to help raise awareness of the symptoms and those most at risk. Read more.

Dental Health and Diabetes

(source: Gulf Today)

SHARJAH: Proper and correct dental care helps in the fight against the chronic disease of diabetes which is the precursor to fatal yet preventable cardiovascular illnesses.

Oral medicine specialist Dr Suhail Alamad pointed this out to The Gulf Today, when interviewed on the sidelines of the "World Diabetes Day 2012" scientific seminar for nurses and other health workers as well as teachers and students last Thursday.

The event was organised by the Sharjah Medical District-Department of Nutrition and Continuing Medical Education.

Alamad said it is "traditionally" believed that diabetes reduces one's immune system and so patients have greater exposure to dental health problems.

However, research studies in the past decade have also revealed that these problems may worsen the condition of the disease, if left untreated.

Alamad lectured on the "Impact of Diabetes on Oral Health" and from the sidelines, he said, "Recent studies show that diabetes can cause or result in dental and gum infections, which can contribute to the worsening of the sugar or diabetes control."

The University Dental Hospital Sharjah assistant professor explained that diabetics are more susceptible to tooth decay as well as cavity and gum diseases because their immune system is unwell and therefore improperly functions. Read more.

Common Questions About Ear Infection?

Common Dental Conditions in Kids

Antibiotic- Friend or foe?

Gum disease and Diabetes.

Antibiotics, Superbugs...suggestions.

Source: Stratum Nutrition

"The mouth is an entry point for pathogens as it comes into contact with billions of bacteria. If a healthy balance of oral bacteria is thrown off by stress, exposure to disease or antibiotics, it can quickly lead to problems such as bacterial
sore throat and ear infection. Bacterial infections of the ear, nose and throat and upper respiratory track – including otitis media, tonsillitis, and pharyngitis – are leading causes of patient visits to primary care physicians. These infections disproportionately affect infants, toddlers, and young children, and have a significant economic burden, due to the
disruption of family activities, absence from school and work. Furthermore, if untreated or inadequately treated, these infections can result in serious long-term complications. The microorganisms in our mouth are a first line
of defense against pathogens and an important part of maintaining a healthy oral cavity. Streptococcus salivarius (S. salivarius) is among the most numerous bacteria found in the mouth of healthy individuals. However, only a small percent
of people have S. salivarius with beneficial BLIS K12 activity." Read More

Probiotics and Bad Breath

Probiotics during pregnancy may ward off eczema

Fighting bad breath

What causes bad breath?

Dog Breath, Your Time May be Up

More on BLIS Technologies, dogs and bad breath
Source: Otago Daily Times

"Got a beagle with bad breath? A hound with halitosis? Blis Technologies could have the answer.The Dunedin biotech company has completed the first phase in a research programme focusing on preventing bad breath in dogs.

The Blis K12 probiotic, already known for its ability to inhibit bacteria responsible for severe bad breath in humans, had been given to dogs to determine if bad breath could be reduced or eliminated in companion animals, Blis Technologies programme leader Dr John Hale said.

The results of a small pilot study were encouraging enough for a longer, extended dosing trial, which started in Dunedin last week." Read More

NZ probiotic tested as cure for bad dog breath

Blis Technologies' K12 oral health probiotic proven to crowd out 'bad' bacteria in humans is to be tested as a treatment for dog bad breath.

New research looks at the benefit of BLIS K12™ probiotics in dogs.

BLIS Technologies Ltd (NZX:BLT) announces the successful completion of the first phase in a research programme, which focuses on preventing bad breath in dogs.

Probiotics target bad doggy breath.

Biotech company fights rheumatic fever

Blis Technologies has teamed up with the Salvation Army to help fight the battle against tonsilitis and rheumatic fever. (ODT)

BLIS Technologies Ltd joins forces with The Salvation Army on war against childhood disease.

Top 4 Probiotics Forecasts.

Source: Newhope 360

BLIS K12 features here..."Niche product categories. Nothing better illustrates the powerful potential of highly targeted probiotics than the story of BLIS Technologies Ltd. The New Zealand company has commercialized BLIS K12, a substrain of Streptococcus salivarius, which kills pathogens in the oral cavity—ears, nose and throat."(Functional Ingredients)...Read More

Oral Health-Diabetes-Dental Health

Most unaware of diabetes, oral health link (Source: UPI)

Connection Between Diabetes and Dental Health (Source: Recordonline)

Study gives teeth to link between oral health and overall health (Source: The Gazette)

Proper oral care begins in infancy (Source: Readingeagle.com)

October is National Dental Hygiene Month-While it is commonly thought that tooth loss is a natural part of aging...(Source: San Francisco Chronicle)

Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infection)

Acute otitis media (inflammation of the middle ear), commonly known as an ear infection, is responsible for approximately 24 million visits to the doctor’s office each year.

BLIS M18™ IS NOW HERE! Probiotic for Teeth and Gums.

Gum Disease, Antibiotics and Dental Care

America's Underserved Patients Do Not Get Access to Dental Care

"Gum disease and pancreatic cancer may be associated with one another, according to the British Dental Health Foundation."

Too much antibiotics prescribed

Hundreds of Antibiotic-resistant bacteria cases in Canada's Northwest Territories

"Study probes oral health, cancer link"

Watch this great video by International Probiotics Association (IPA). BLIS Technologies is a member of IPA.

Do you consume yogurt regularly? While not all yogurts contain probiotics, in consuming yogurt you will have consumed bacteria in these products .

If you have, then you have consumed live bacteria because yogurt is produced by the fermentation of milk by bacteria.

Our focus is on beneficial bacteria, similar to those found in yogurt.

The definition of a probiotic adopted by the World Health Organisation is "Live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host”.
In simpler words, it means that probiotics are live beneficial bacteria that when consumed can have health benefits. Most probiotics target the intestinal tract whereas BLIS K12™ probiotic is the world’s only probiotic for mouth and throat.

BLIS is an acronym for Bacteriocin Like Inhibitory Substances.

Only certain bacteria produce BLIS, which are natural antibacterial agents that can be used to help control the undesirable bacterial implicated in diseases.

Let us introduce to you "Streptococcus salivarius  K12". We call it "BLIS K12".

It is the world’s first bacterial replacement probiotic derived from the oral cavity for specific application to the oral cavity and upper respiratory tract.

Professor John Tagg from the University of Otago, New Zealand discovered BLIS K12™. He was looking for protective bacteria in the mouth that could prevent sore throats which can result in complications such as rheumatic fever in children. After studying Dunedin schoolchildren for many years, he found that some children didn't appear to get sore throats as often as others.

When he analysed their saliva Professor Tagg found that the children getting less sore throats appeared to have certain types of bacteria in their saliva that the other schoolchildren did not have (Dierksen and Tagg 2000). These were BLIS producing bacteria or bacteria that produced natural antimicrobials. One of these was a strain called S.salivarius K12. Streptococcus salivarius are common in the mouth and account for 40% of all the bacteria in the normal healthy mouth. Streptococcus salivarius K12 actually produces two powerful anti-microbial BLIS proteins, that inhibit encroaching deleterious bacteria, rupturing the cell wall and thus stopping the multiplication of the bad bacteria (Wescombe et al 2006, Hyink et al 2006).

Some 2% of the population are naturally protected as they already have Streptococcus salivarius producing bacteriocins similar to BLIS K12™ (Burton et al). However, for the large majority that do not have this natural protection, BLIS K12™ may offer significant benefits.

Myth #1:

Mouthwash will make bad breath go away.

Antimicrobial Mouthwash will only get rid of your bad breath temporarily. Using mouthwash you also risk killing good or beneficial bacteria.  

Myth #2:

If I brush my teeth, then I shouldn't have bad breath.

The truth is that most people only brush their teeth for 30 to 45 seconds, which is far from ideal. To sufficiently clean all the surfaces of your teeth, you should brush for at least 2 minutes at least twice a day. Billions of bacteria live on our tongue. To maintain good oral hygiene, it is important to clean your tongue. BLIS K12™ Fresh Breath Kit has a tongue cleaner. It's equally important to floss because brushing alone won't remove harmful plaque and food particles that become stuck between your teeth and gums.

Annual Report - 31 March, 2013

Operations Report and Financial Statements to 31 March 2013. Read more.

Half Year Report - 30 September, 2012

Operations Report and Financial Statements to 30 September 2012. Read more.

AGM- Documents (Jul 2012)

Notice of Meeting

Shareholders Proxy Form

Shareholders Voting Form

Constitution

2012 Annual Report.

Annual Report (31 March 2012)

BLIS Technologies Ltd- Annual Report

NZX Annoucement- Annual Report and Commentary

Annual Report (31 March 2011)

Click here to download linked file.

Click on the image below to take you to the BLT page on the www.nzx.com website.

BLT Ordinary Shares:

What is BLIS?

Request for Director Nominations

17June 2013

Announcement: Request for Director Nominations

The date of the company's Annual Meeting has been set for Friday, 30 August 2013. The meeting will be held in Dunedin.

Further details regarding the time and venue will be provided in the Notice of Meeting for the Annual Meeting, including a proxy voting form and details of any resolutions, will be sent to shareholders prior to the meeting.

In accordance with NZSX Listing Rule 3.3.5, BLIS Technologies Limited advises that the closing date for Director Nominations is Friday, 1 July 2013.

All nominations must be received by 4:00pm on the closing date.
Nominations may only be made by a Shareholder entitled to attend and vote at the Annual General Meeting and should be addressed to:

Director Nominations
BLIS Technologies
PO Box 5804
Dunedin

BLIS Technologies Limited
Dr Peter Fennessy
Chairman

4 June 2013

Financial Markets Authority (FMA)- Edinburgh Equity Nominees Limited

BLIS Technologies has today received advice from its solicitors that the FMA has reviewed the circumstances surrounding the sales by Edinburgh between 2 – 7 May 2012, prior to the conversion of CPS to ordinary shares on 5pm 8 May 2012, and have determined that they will not be taking any further action in relation to this matter.

The solicitors advice was based on a letter from the FMA dated 29 May 2013 prepared in response a request made on behalf of the Independent Directors of BLIS Technologies on 11 May 2012 regarding the sale of ordinary shares in BLT by Edinburgh in the period leading up to the conversion of BLT’s convertible preference shares (CPS). The Independent Directors had sought confirmation from FMA that the sales did not amount to any breach of the Securities Markets Act 1988.

___________________
Dr Barry Richardson
Chief Executive
BLIS Technologies Limited

21 March 2013

BLIS Technologies – Small Shareholding Plan (SSP)

The period set for those shareholders holding less than the minimum holding to increase their holding to 25,000 shares or more in BLIS Technologies Limited has expired. 

First NZ Capital will now be advised of the aggregate number of shares to be sold pursuant to the SSP by our share registrar LINK Market Services Limited (LINK) and will transact the sales through the NZX. 

Upon completion of the transaction, LINK will allocate the net proceeds pro-rata based on the number of shares transferred and remit net proceeds to individual holders.  The net proceeds received by shareholders will depend upon the market price prevailing on the NZX at the time of sale.

Barry Richardson

Chief Executive Officer

BLIS MOVING FORWARD 

18 Feb 2013

BLIS Technologies Ltd (NZX:BLT) announces the relocation of its head office and research facilities from the Otago University Centre for Innovation (“CFI”) to commercial premises in central Dunedin currently being utilised for the manufacture and distribution of its “Gourmet” ice cream products.
The move forms part of an increased focus by the company on the manufacture and distribution of BLIS probiotic finished and part finished products within the New Zealand, Australia and Asian consumer markets and sales through its web site www.blis.co.nz.
The initiative follows completion of a review of operations. A sharper focus on the production and distribution of BLIS probiotic products will mean the production and sale of ice cream and roulades under the “Gourmet” brand will cease. The launch by “Gourmet” of the BLIS probiotic ice cream has however been a successful proof of concept and it is therefore intended to maintain supply under license.
The relocation and restructure will result in a small number of redundancies at the ice cream plant. This is regrettable but is necessary. The production and distribution of ice cream is an increasingly competitive market. Remaining a small niche producer without the efficiencies of large scale processing requires ongoing resources that the Company has decided are better utilised in developing and promoting our BLIS probiotic ingredients and associated products.
The CFI has served our requirements well but it is configured for research laboratories. The relocation and associated restructure of operations will provide efficiencies and cost reductions through better utilisation of the Company’s resources. This will increase the space available to dedicate to probiotic product processing thereby facilitating the internalisation of some production functions currently being outsourced.
The Company remains committed to increasing the awareness of and demand for the valuable and unique attributes of its range of probiotics. The recent NZFSA approval for BLIS M18TM provides the opportunity for further product offerings.
The relocation and associated restructuring of the Company will incur additional costs in the current financial year and as a consequence the Company has further revised its guidance for the financial year to 31 March 2013 to a deficit of $1.8m.

Anthony Offen
T: 021-463-336

BLIS Technologies Appoint Broker

NZX Release: 24 Jan 2013

BLIS Technologies Limited (BLIS) has appointed First NZ Capital Securities Limited (FNZC) to facilitate the sale of shares pursuant to the Small Shareholding Plan (SSP) announced on 21 December 2012. 

 FNZC will be advised of the aggregate number of shares to be sold pursuant to the SSP by our share registrar LINK Market Services Limited (LINK) on 21 March 2013 and will transact the sale through the NZX for a fixed fee. 

 Upon completion of the transaction, LINK will allocate the net proceeds pro-rata based on the number of shares transferred and remit proceeds to individual holders.  The proceeds received by shareholders will depend upon the market price prevailing on the NZX in late March.

Barry Richardson

Chief Executive Officer

Price Enquiry

NZX Release: 10 Jan 2013 

For more information on share price enquiry, please click on BLIS Technologies Limited.

Minimum Shareholding Level

NZX Release: 21 Dec 2012

BLIS appreciates the support and enthusiasm of all of its shareholders and wishes to maintain a diverse shareholding base but is cognisant of the costs associated with maintaining its share registry.

In its examination of all avenues available to reduce administration expenses BLIS has established that the cost of servicing small shareholdings is disproportionate to the underlying value of the share parcels. In particular, 63% of the total shareholders of the company hold less than 25,000 shares, representing 1.73% of the total shares on issue in BLIS. Accordingly, BLIS sought a determination from the NZX for a minimum shareholding of 25,000 shares. This request was granted on 19 December 2012. BLIS determined on 21 December 2012 to implement a Small Shareholding Plan to give effect to the minimum shareholding.

Hence, in accordance with Clause 4 of the BLIS Constitution the Board of Directors hereby gives notice to shareholders that at the expiration of 3 months after this notice being 21 March 2013 the Board will exercise the power of sale of individual shareholdings of less than the minimum shareholding (25,000 shares). For the avoidance of doubt this will only apply to shareholdings of less than 25,000 shares on 21 March 2013.

If you currently hold 25,000 shares or more and intend to maintain this level on 21 March 2013 the notice given in this letter does not apply to you.

On 21 March 2013 BLIS will arrange for the purchase of all shares from shareholders that hold parcels of less than 25,000 shares on that date.

Under the Small Shareholding Plan you have three options available to you if you currently hold less than 25,000 shares:

Option 1 – purchase additional shares such that on 21 March 2013 your shareholding exceeds 25,000 shares thereby remaining a shareholder of BLIS;

Option 2 - donate your entire share holding to Cure Kids (www.curekids.org.nz) by completing the attached share transfer form and sending it to Link Market Services Limited, 138 Tancred Street, Ashburton; or

Option 3 – do nothing and post 21 March 2013 receive the net proceeds from the sale of your entire shareholding of less than 25,000 shares.

If you hold less than 25,000 shares on 21 March 2013 a broker instructed by BLIS will sell your shares through the NZX (or in some other manner approved by the NZX) and BLIS will send you the proceeds after deduction of reasonable sale expenses.

If you have any questions relating to this matter please contact Mukesh Kumar, BLIS Chief Financial Officer, +64 (3) 4798954 or mukesh.kumar@blis.co.nz

Yours faithfully

Peter Fennessy
Chairman

Half Year Report- 30 September 2012

Operations Report and Financial Statements to 30 September 2012. Read more.

Share Placement and Share Purchase Plan

BLIS Technologies raises $1.314 million. NZX Announcement on 25 October 2012.

BLIS Technologies and The Salvation Army

BLIS Technologies Ltd joins forces with The Salvation Army on war against childhood disease.

01 October 2012

SHARE PURCHASE PLAN AND SHARE PLACEMENT- NZX Announcements

 BLIS M18™ IS NOW HERE!

 18 September 2012

BLIS Technologies- Share Purchase Plan and Placement

Market Announcement and Appendix 7

31 August 2012

Guidance

Revision of FY 2013 Guidance and SPP and Placement

AGM Results

AGM Results and Presentation

Shareholder Promotion- BLIS Technologies Ltd

Massive discount to the Shareholders. Promotion ends on 1 August 2012. Refer to page 1 of published 2012 Annual Report for details.

June 2012

AGM- Documents

Notice of Meeting

Shareholders Proxy Form

Shareholders Voting Form

Constitution

2012 Annual Report. See Page 1 for product SHAREHOLDER PROMOTION

 21 May 2012

Annual Report- 31 March 2012

Annual Report (31 March 2012)

BLIS Technologies Ltd- Annual Report

11 May 2012

NZX Market Release- FMA

The independent directors of BLIS Technologies Limited (BLT) advise that they have written to both the NZX and the Financial Markets Authority seeking assurances that certain trading of ordinary shares in BLT that occurred during the period in which the share price under the terms of conversion of the cumulative preference shares was determined did not breach NZX rules and/or relevant securities legislation

11 May 2012

Confirmation of Enquiry

11 May 2012 - NZX Market Supervision (NZXMS) confirms that it has commenced an enquiry into trading in shares of BLIS Technologies Limited (BLT).

NZXMS initiated the enquiry after its Market Surveillance staff detected potentially anomalous trades in BLT shares during the period when the price for the conversion of cumulative preference shares to ordinary shares was being determined.

The conversion occurred on 8 May 2012.

NZXMS believes it is in the interests of market clarity and confidence to confirm this action.

Conversion of Cummulative Preference Shares

Market Announcement- Conversion of Cumulative Preference Shares

Notice of Issue of Shares

Notice of Issue of Shares (Preference Shares and Dividend)

March 2012

Guidance

BLIS Technologies issues guidance and actions strategic review (read)

November 2011

BLIS K12 Now Approved for Sale in China

BLIS K12 Now Approved for Sale in China...read more

Half Year Reports- September 2011

Financial Report and Operations Report to 30 September 2011 (click here)

Sept 2011-Share Placement and Share Purchase Plan

BLIS Technologies raises $1.5 million

BLT Waiver from Listing Rule 9.2.1

NZX Announcement (8 Sept 2011): "Edinburgh Equity Nominees (a substantial shareholder in BLIS Technologies, BLT) has applied to take up $500,000 in new shares"...read more

Share Purchase Plan Documentation:

Letter to the Shareholders

Details of the Share Purchase Plan

Terms and Conditions

Application Form

Share Placement and Share Purchase Plan

NZX Release (23 August 2011)

Letter from the Chairman

29 July 2011- Annual General Meeting

AGM Presentation

Press Release

AGM Resolution Results

Dr Peter Fennessy, Chairman

Peter Fennessy is a consultant, and a Director of AbacusBio Limited (Dunedin), a privately-held consultancy and venture development business with its major focus in the agricultural sector. Peter has been a director of BLIS Technologies Ltd since 2000 and Chairman since 2006; he is also a director of a number of private companies in the areas of technology and agribusiness.

Bevan Wallace

Bevan Wallace joined the Board of Directors at BLIS Technologies in 2008. He is a former Chartered Accountant, a member of the Institute of Directors, Institute of Financial Professionals, New Zealand (Inc), and the Law and Economics Association of New Zealand (Inc.). Bevan is Chairman of Efficient Market Services Limited, operator of the Unlisted share trading platform and provides value-based strategic advice though his consultancy Morgan Wallace Limited.  He holds a Master of Commerce with First Class Honours in Economics and Accountancy (University of Canterbury).

Alan McKenzie

Alan is a Dunedin based business adviser with over 34 years experience as a Chartered Accountant working in New Zealand and overseas, in both Public Practice and Industry.  He has worked with numerous businesses ranging from new ventures requiring day to day input, to substantial multi-national companies. His focus is advising clients regarding structuring business investment, financing, and related taxation issues. He is a member of the Institute of Directors and a director of several client owned businesses and investment groups, operating within New Zealand and Internationally. He is a Trustee for several private family groups and local Charitable Organisations.

Colin Dawson

Colin has a broad knowledge of the life sciences sector and capital markets. Following 10 years in veterinary clinical practice and completing an MBA at the University of Auckland he held a number of senior executive positions in primary, secondary and tertiary healthcare sectors. Prior to joining Otago Innovation, Colin was managing partner at health consulting and investment banking services firm Medicus Capital.

In addition to his current role as CEO of Otago Innovation Ltd, Colin is a director of a number of technology and life sciences companies including NZX listed Blis Technologies and Pacific Edge Ltd. He is an Accredited Fellow of the Institute of Directors (NZ), a member of the NZ Bio Advisory Council, member of the advisory board of the Brain Health Research Centre, and a Trustee of Dunedin's Upstart Business Incubator.

Tony Offen

Mr Offen, through his Dunedin based investment company, Edinburgh Securities Limited, is a director and shareholder of private companies successfully operating in a number of business areas including commercial and industrial property, FMCG business sectors nationally and internationally as well as investment interests requiring venture and start-up capital. Mr Offen holds professional memberships with the NZ Institute of Chartered Accountants and the NZ Institute of Directors and is an elected member of the National Council for the Neurological Foundation of NZ and is Chairman of its investment committee. Mr Offen has been a director of BLIS Technologies Limited since May 2009 and holds a B.Com (Accounting) and B.A (Philosophy) from University of Otago.

Periodontal (gum) disease is one of the most common infectious diseases seen in humans.

It is characterized by gingival inflammation (red swollen gums and bleeding) and the loss of connective tissue and bone from around the roots of the teeth which can lead to eventual tooth loss.

Source: American Academy of Periodontology.

Untreated periodontal disease can eventually lead to tooth loss and other health problems. Gingivitis is the mildest form of periodontal disease. It causes the gums to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort at this stage. Gingivitis is often caused by inadequate oral hygiene. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral home care.

Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. With time, plaque can spread and grow below the gum line. Toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque irritate the gums. The toxins stimulate a chronic inflammatory response in which the body in essence turns on itself, and the tissues and bone that support the teeth are broken down and destroyed. Gums separate from the teeth, forming pockets (spaces between the teeth and gums) that become infected. As the disease progresses, the pockets deepen and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed. Often, this destructive process has very mild symptoms. Eventually, teeth can become loose and may have to be removed.

Scientific Research- Gum Health and BLIS K12

Streptococcus salivarius K12 has been shown in the laboratory to inhibit (or restrain) the growth of certain bacteria implicated in periodontal disease including strains of Prevotella intermedia, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum.

New Science

Most of the tissue damage during gingivitis occurs due to the body's own inflammatory reaction, a study by Adam et al (2011) showed that Streptococcus salivarius K12 and Streptococcus salivarius M18 reduced the expression of immune  cytokines associated with inflammatory conditions like gingivitis and periodontitis concluding that “these strains may offer novel preventative and therapeutic options for patients suffering from both diseases”.

For more information on Gingivitis, watch the video below:

Acknowledgement to www.BlossomingSmiles.com for the video.

HEALTHY BODY HEALTHY YOU

Acknowledgement to ListerineAnticeptic

The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines oral health as  "being free of chronic mouth and facial pain, oral and throat cancer, oral sores, birth defects such as cleft lip and palate, periodontal (gum) disease, tooth decay and tooth loss, and other diseases and disorders that affect the mouth and oral cavity".

World Health Organisation states on it's FACT SHEET that "Oral diseases share common risk factors with the four leading chronic diseases -- cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes - including unhealthy diet, tobacco use, and harmful alcohol use. Poor oral hygiene is also a risk factor."

Your eyes may be the window to the soul, but your mouth is a window to your body's health.

The state of your oral health can offer lots of clues about your overall health. Oral health and overall health are more connected than you might realize. Your mouth is normally teeming with billions and billions of bacteria that are mostly beneficial.

Please note that this is not meant to scare you but to simply state the available emerging evidence. While it is known that diseases of the oral cavity (mouth), throat and upper respiratory tract can have serious acute and chronic effects on human body, there is now emerging evidence that microorganisms implicated in inflammatory diseases of the oral cavity such as gingivitis, periodontal diseases and poor oral hygiene might also be linked to cardiovascular, preterm labour, pulmonary and diabetic diseases.

The Surgeon General estimates 85 percent of Americans have gum disease — which make it one of the major risk factors for heart attacks and strokes.

Cardiovascular disease kills more Americans than cancer. Whilst the scientific basis for the linkages between the oral cavity bacteria and the development of these diseases is not fully determined, it nevertheless raises important questions about the role of "microflora" and how this may be manipulated with bacterial replacement therapy.  

Oral Care Facts

Some of the oral care facts listed by the World Health Organisation are:

• The most common oral diseases are dental cavities and periodontal (gum) disease.
• 60-90% of school children worldwide have dental cavities.
• Severe periodontal (gum) disease, which may result in tooth loss, is found in 5-20% of middle-aged adults; the rate varies across geographical regions.

Mouth and Bacteria 

The mouth is an entry point for pathogens as it comes into contact with billions of bacteria every day! 

A pathogen is anything that causes a disease.  Pathogens include:

(1) Bacteria. A group of microscopic organisms that are capable of reproducing on their own, causing human disease by direct invasion of body tissues. Bacteria often produce toxins that poison the cells they have invaded. Numerous bacteria also live in harmony with the body and are necessary for human existence, such as bacteria that aid in digestion in the gut. Bacterial diseases include "strep" tonsillitis, pneumonia, and meningitis. (example: bacterial meningitis or strep throat)

(2) Viruses.

(3) Fungi (example: athlete’s foot)

We come in contact with pathogens everyday.  Most of the time our body’s immune system destroys them before they can cause harm.

The microorganisms in our mouth are the first line of defence against pathogens and an important part of our immune health. If a healthy balance of oral bacteria is affected by stress, exposure to disease or antibiotics, it can quickly lead to problems such as throat infections, ear infections and bad breath.

Research Findings

By promoting a healthy balance of bacteria in the mouth and upper respiratory tract, BLIS K12™ can help protect the gateway to our body.

Unlike traditional prescription antibiotic drugs, which are indiscriminate and tend to wipe out the body's bacterial population; both good and bad; BLIS K12™ advanced probiotics produce antibacterial molecules that target certain bacteria within close proximity.

These advanced probiotic bacteria will naturally colonize on the tongue and in back of your throat. Once the BLIS K12™ take up residence in your mouth and throat, it has been scientifically shown that they will then offer long term protection from a number of harmful bacteria and season ailments.

(Click here for 2011 Survey Highlights)

The Surgeon General estimates 85% of Americans have gum disease. Poor oral health is one of the major risk factors for heart attacks and strokes. To find out more about the importance of good oral health, click here. Products containing probiotic BLIS k12™ offers a lot more benefits than you may think. Find out.

Association Between Respiratory Disease in Hospitalized Patients and Periodontal Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study

"Recent research indicated that periodontal infection may worsen systemic diseases, including pulmonary disease. Respiratory infections, such as pneumonia and the exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, involve the aspiration of bacteria from the oropharynx into the lower respiratory tract."

Conclusion: "The findings of the present analysis support an association between respiratory and periodontal disease."

(Journal of Periodontology, August 2011, Vol. 82:8, pp. 1155-1160).

Streptococcal sore throat (Strep throat) is generally caused by the pathogenic bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes.  

Our probiotic, Streptococcus salivarius K12 produces two antimicrobial agents (salivaricin A and salivaricin B) that are able to inhibit (or restrain) all Streptococcus pyogenes tested in the lab to date.

Here is the evidence:

A large study (228 subjects) conducted at the University of Otago showed that children who had Streptococcus salivarius that produced either salivaricin A, salivaricin B or both, had 47% less acquisition of new Streptococcus pyogenes infections over the eight months of the study than subjects having Streptococcus salivarius that did not produce salivaricin A or B (Dierksen et al 2000).

More Good News!

Streptococcus salivarius K12’s bacteriocidal properties extend to other harmful bacteria found in the oral cavity and upper respiratory tracts.

BAD BREATH IS THE RESULT OF SMELLS AND WASTE FROM BACTERIA THAT LIVE IN THE MOUTH AND THROAT.

Halitosis or bad breath is defined as noticeable unpleasant odour that emanates from the mouth which is objectionable and undesirable to others. It is one of society's oldest and most troublesome social maladies. It is caused by volatile sulphur compounds.

For the majority of people (85-90% of those who have bad breath halitosis), the single most frequent cause of bad breath problems are the bacteria that live in their mouth.

Bad breath remains a taboo subject and most people realise that they cannot rely on their friends, work colleagues, partners to let them know when they smell the odour from their mouth. Most of your friends will avoid you rather than tell you about your breath for the fear that you may get upset.

An extensive survey carried out by the British Dental Association some years ago found that bad breath was rated as the number 1 turn-off for everybody, no matter what their age or gender.  

Bacteria consume food and excrete waste. Bad breath is caused by volatile sulphur compounds (VSC's) excreted by oral bacteria as waste. The term "volatile" simply describes the fact that these compounds evaporate readily, even at normal temperatures. The extreme volatility of VSC's explains how these compounds have the ability to offend those around us, instantly.

While volatile sulphur compounds are the main causative agents of bad breath, the bacteria that live in our mouth may produce other waste products too. Some of these have their own unique and unpleasant smell.

Some of the smells associated with these waste products are the smells we associate with corpses (Cadaverine), decaying meat (Putrescine), smell of human faecal matter (Skatole) and the smell of sweaty feet (Isovaleric Acid).

Everyone has some amount of these unpleasant compounds in their breath. Fortunately, however, at low levels these odorous compounds cannot be detected by the human nose. It is only when the amount of these compounds becomes elevated that others can detect our "bad" breath.

Having bad breath at work can put you in a difficult situation with your co workers and your boss. Nearly half of those surveyed by the British Dental Association say that having bad breath can lower the odds of getting a promotion.

This mix of compounds emanates from the mouths of all humans. No one is an exception. Everyone has varying amounts of these unpleasant compounds in their breath.

Fortunately, at low levels these odorous compounds cannot be detected by the human nose. It's only when the amount of these compounds becomes elevated that others can detect our "bad" breath.

Some of the Causes of Bad Breath:

• Gum disease
• Sinus
• Dry mouth

Otitis media is inflammation of the middle ear.

This inflammation often begins with infections that cause sore throats, colds or other respiratory problems, and spreads to the middle ear.

Causes of Middle Ear Infection

These can be caused by viruses or bacteria, and can be acute or chronic.

Young children with otitis media may be irritable, fussy, or have problems feeding or sleeping. Older children may complain about pain and fullness in the ear (ear ache). Fever may be present in a child of any age. These symptoms are often associated with signs of upper respiratory infection such as a runny or stuffy nose, or a cough.

The build up of pus within the middle ear causes pain and dampens the vibrations of the eardrum (so there is usually temporary hearing loss during the infection).

Ear Infections in Children

Nearly all children have one or more ear infections by the age of six.

Children younger than seven are much more prone to otitis media due to shorter eustachian tubes which are at a more horizontal angle than in the adult ear. Children also have not developed the same resistance to viruses and bacteria as adults.

Why Might Hearing Loss Occur During an Ear Infection?

Pus buildup dampens ear drum vibrations.

Severe ear infections may cause the eardrum to rupture.

How Can BLIS K12™ Help You?

Internal pilot studies of children with recurrent ear infections indicated that children taking BLIS K12™ had reduced numbers of ear infection recurrences compared to a control group (67% fewer) and to before treatment (56% fewer).

Published studies have shown that it is possible for BLIS K12™ to transfer from the oral cavity to the nasopharynx, which is the bacterial reservoir for ear infections (Power et al 2008).

What is Middle Ear Infection (Otitis Media)?

Source: DNA Tube (Scientific Video Site)

Do you know that Humans Carry More Bacterial Cells than Human Ones?

A Microbiologist would say that you are more bacteria than you are you. 90% of the cells within us are not ours but microbes.

According to Science Daily, the number of bacteria living within the body of the average healthy adult human are estimated to outnumber human cells 10 to 1."We compulsively wash our hands, spray our countertops and grimace when someone sneezes near us—in fact, we do everything we can to avoid unnecessary encounters with the germ world. But the truth is we are practically walking petri dishes, rife with bacterial colonies from our skin to the deepest recesses of our guts." (Scientific American)

The infestation of bacteria begins at birth. Babies ingest mouthfuls of bacteria during birthing and pick up plenty more from their mother's skin and milk. A baby's interaction with their mother is the biggest burst of microbes they get. This is just the beginning because throughout our lives, we consume bacteria in our food and water...

Changes in our microbial communities throughout life may be responsible for digestive disorders, skin diseases, gum disease and even obesity.

Modern humans are bacteria-killing machines. We assassinate microbes with hand soap, mouthwash and bathroom cleaners. It feels clean and right.

But some scientists say we're overdoing it. All this killing may actually cause diseases like eczema, irritable bowel syndrome and even diabetes. The answer, they say, is counter-intuitive: feed patients bacteria. Listen to Professor John Tagg of the University of Otago (click here)

70% of Bacteria In Your Body Are Good Or Beneficial

Does this surprise you? You are not alone. 45% of Americans consider themselves very or somewhat knowledgeable about the benefits of probiotics on digestive health, compared to 36% in 2009, according to results of an annual benchmark survey by The Dannon Company.

The following are some myths and incorrect perceptions uncovered by the survey, and the facts to set them straight:

• 22% of survey respondents believe that all bacteria can make you sick. In reality, just the opposite is true. Probiotics are live bacteria that, when consumed in adequate amounts, provide health benefits, which can include supporting the immune system, helping regulate the digestive system, and helping maintain oral health.
• One-third of respondents feel uncomfortable eating foods that contain bacteria. Do you eat yogurt? While not all yogurts contain specific probiotics. All yogurts have live bacteria because yogurt is produced by the fermentation of milk by bacteria.

Do Antibiotics That Your Doctor Prescribes Kill Only Bad Bacteria?

The short answer is NO. Pathogenic or disease-causing bacteria make up, at most, about 30 percent of the total bacteria in the body. The remaining 70 percent are good or helpful bacteria. When we take antibiotics, we destroy the 70 percent that is good, just in order to kill the 30 percent that is harmful.

In the past 60 years, antibiotics have been critical in the fight against infectious disease caused by bacteria and other microbes. However, disease-causing microbes that have become resistant to antibiotic drug therapy are an increasing public health problem. Wound infections, gonorrhea, tuberculosis, pneumonia, septicemia and childhood ear infections are just a few of the diseases that have become hard to treat with antibiotics. One part of the problem is that bacteria and other microbes that cause infections are remarkably resilient and have developed several ways to resist antibiotics and other antimicrobial drugs. This problem is due to increasing use, and misuse, of existing antibiotics in human and veterinary medicine and in agriculture.

In 1998, in the United States, 80 million prescriptions of antibiotics for human use were filled. This equals 12,500 tons in one year. Agricultural practices account for over 60% of antibiotic usage in the U.S., so this adds an additional 18,000 tons per year to the antibiotic burden in the environment.

Nowadays, about 70 percent of the bacteria that cause infections in hospitals are resistant to at least one of the drugs most commonly used for treatment (2011 Kenneth Todar, PhD).

WELCOME TO THE NEW ERA OF PROBIOTICS. THE NEW ERA OF BLIS K12™ AND BLIS M18™.

The definition of a probiotic adopted by the World Health Organisation is "Live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host”.

WHAT IS BLIS K12™?

BLIS is an acronym for Bacteriocin Like Inhibitory Substances. Only certain bacteria produce BLIS, which are natural antibacterial agents that can be used to help control the undesirable bacteria implicated in diseases.

BLIS K12 is scientifically known as "Streptococcus salivarius K12". It is the world’s first bacterial replacement probiotic derived from the oral cavity for specific application in the oral cavity and upper respiratory tract.

Some 2% of people are naturally protected as they already have Streptococcus salivarius producing bacteriocins similar to BLIS K12™. However, for the large majority that do not have this natural protection, BLIS K12™ may offer significant benefits.

Two Cases of Deadly Bacteria in Gillette. 

Cases of flesh-eating bacteria in the state have caused some concern.Two cases have been confirmed in Gillette. One resulting in death.The bacteria comes from the same organism that causes strep throat

Study shows BLIS K12 battles Bad Breath. 

Malaysia- Datuk Dr Christopher Lee, Ministry of Health's Department of Medicine, National Head and Consultant for infectious disease, today urged for the use of antibiotics to be streamlined due to the alarming rise in ...

Oral health is still a major problem among Rwandans. There is no official statistic on the prevalence on Oral diseases; however, according to information from Oral Health Foundation Rwanda (OHFR), about 60 percent of children suffer tooth decay, while ... 

Antibiotics May Raise Bowel Disease Risk in Children.

Oral Health in the Pacific. A New Zealand dentistry academic says there is a critical need for more oral health programmes in the Pacific...Dr Jonathan Leichter says Pacific people need to be taught about the link between gum disease, cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

BLIS K12 Fresh Breath Kit

Maternal emotions affect children's oral health

Oral Health and Children's Academic Performance- Is there a link?

Fewer Americans Turn To Dentists For Mouth Pain

Antibiotic resistance seen growing in soil.

Medical College to Study Toddler Ear Infections. Also read about BLIS K12 and Middle Ear Infection.

These pages are designed to provide useful information for an investor.

T: +64 3 479 5337 if you require any assistance, have any queries, or would like to place feedback, then please feel free to contact us.

• F: +64 3 479 8954
• E: info@blis.co.nz

BLIS Technologies Limited is a publicly listed company on the New Zealand Exchange (NZX). Go to http://www.nzx.com/home.

The stock codes are "BLT" for the ordinary shares.

The BLIS Story

Prof John Tagg explains BLIS K12 and the founding of BLIS Technologies Limited.

A recent study by Canadian and Japanese researchers shows new benefits for the BLIS K12 probiotic. BLIS Technologies Ltd (NZX: BLT) has reported that this new research, published in the international journal Applied and Environmental Microbiology, further extends the broad therapeutic benefits of its oral cavity probiotic, BLIS K12.

The international research group investigated the effectiveness of BLIS K12 in laboratory testing against the yeast organism responsible for the common and painful oral infection, candidiasis or oral thrush, a condition which is more frequent in children and older individuals.

The researchers reported that they were surprised however to find that BLIS K12 did not work in the typical way that BLIS K12 normally protects the mouth and throat against bacterial infection.

Instead, they found that BLIS K12 prevented the candidiasis-causing yeast from sticking to the throat and mouth and therefore preventing the organism from colonising and causing a subsequent infection.

BLIS K12 has already been shown in laboratory testing to be more potent against bacteria that cause throat infection and bad-breath than other over-the-counter throat lozenges and now it adds the prevention of yeast infection to that list.
“Other throat-care lozenges and medications might have a transient effect for an hour or two, but the greatest advantage that BLIS K12 has over other oral-care treatments is that it can colonise in the mouth and throat and that means that it provides protection within the oral cavity, 24 hours a day.”

According to BLIS Technologies’ CEO, Dr Barry Richardson, “The fact that an active population of the BLIS K12 probiotic can remain in the mouth and colonise it, is very important for the overall effectiveness of the probiotic because this provides round the clock protection against any invading or opportunistic organisms. This means that BLIS K12 should prevent, as well as treat candidiasis infection, however controlled clinical trials are required to confirm this effect.” Dr Richardson also commented,

“The whole point of providing a 24 hour probiotic defence barrier from infective agents, is that one never knows when something is going to strike. While other products do provide short-term anti-bacterial defence when you are using them, it is not practical to suck a lozenge 24 hours a day”.

Researchers have found that there may be a link between periodontal disease, tooth loss and dementia.

Oral Bacteria Might Signal Early Pancreatic Cancer (read more)

Before you read further, consider this: 2 BLIS K12™ lozenges a day will cost $1.00 per day (BLIS K12™ Throat Guard Daily-60 loz bottle)

2011 Survey of Dental Care Affordability and Accessibility: Highlights from the Nationally Representative Survey (Prof D Neil & C Govan, The University of Southern California)

Dental healthcare in America today…
Substantial economic and practical barriers to quality dental healthcare persist in America today. Approximately 50% of Americans lack dental insurance and, in 2010, dental premiums increased at a higher rate than medical insurance premiums (NADP). The US Surgeon General described the barriers to quality, affordable care as a “silent epidemic,” leading to 164 million hours of lost productivity annually. Individuals without dental insurance are dramatically less likely to get recommended care and thus are more likely to develop the major health conditions (e.g., diabetes, heart disease, stroke) linked with poor oral health.

(Click here for 2011 Survey Highlights) 

Gum Disease and Diabetes: A Two Way Relationship

Periodontal Inflammation and Diabetes: a two way relationship. (Click here). Buy BLIS K12 Throat Guard Daily. A small investment in oral care.

BLIS probiotics have potential benefits for your health. Common Issues are addressed below.

Are you suffering from bad breath?

Are you suffering from chronic bad breath?

Do you wonder why traditional mouthwash is a temporary remedy? Go to bad breath

Do you want to assist your body to fight winter ailments

Are you suffering from a Strep Throat?

Are you willing to assist your Immune System naturally?

Is your child suffering from Ear Infections?

Is your child suffering from recurrent Tonsilitis}?

Do you want to increase protection for yourself and your family from illnesses when Travelling?

Are you taking a course of Antibiotics?

 Do you have  Gum Disease?

Employer: Can I buy BLIS K12™ probiotic for my employees at a special price?

What is BLIS?

General and Specific Questions.

BLIS and Probiotics

What is a probiotic? 

What is BLIS? 

Why is BLIS K12™ known as an "advanced probiotic"?

BLIS K12™ is not a gut or intestinal probiotic. Why is it a good thing?

How can BLIS K12™ help maintain good oral health?

BLIS K12™ targets the mouth and throat. Why is it useful?

Oral Health

Why is oral health important? 

Is there a link between poor oral health and serious illnesses (like heart disease)? 

How can BLIS K12™ help with maintaining good oral health? 

Safety 

Is BLIS K12™ something foreign to my body? 

Is BLIS K12™ safe? 

Are the products safe for kids?

Is BLIS K12™ safe for a pregnant woman?

Are there any BLIS K12™ human safety studies?

Is BLIS K12™ genetically modified?

Are there any other reassuring facts?

SCIENCE

Who are the people behind the science? 

Have you done research?

CUSTOMERS

What are the customers saying about your product?

HEALTH BENEFITS OF BLIS K12™

IMMUNE

Why do I need a healthy immune system?

Can BLIS K12™ stimulate my immune system?

I am travelling overseas- Can BLIS help?

STREP THROAT 

I have strep throat (sore throat). Can BLIS K12™ help me? 

TONSILLITIS

Can BLIS K12™ help me with tonsillitis? 

MIDDLE EAR INFECTION 

My child has ear infection (Otitis Media). Can BLIS K12™ help? 

PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Can BLIS K12™ help with periodontal (gum) disease? 

BAD BREATH

I have a problem with bad breath (halitosis). I know someone who has chronic bad breath. Can BLIS K12™ help?

What is the cause of bad breath? 

Can you tell me some myths about bad breath or cures for bad breath? 

COMING OFF ANTIBIOTICS  

I am coming off a course of antibiotics. What product should I buy to quickly replenish my mouth with good bacteria?

I travel a lot. What should I buy to get maximum protection while travelling? Click here.