Story perspectives

Ancient Feces Reveal Poor Sanitation in Loma San Gabriel

10/23/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Indiana University researchers analyzed 1,100–1,300-year-old feces from Cave of the Dead Children in Mexico and found Blastocystis and Escherichia coli, indicating poor sanitation among the Loma San Gabriel culture.
Researchers used advanced molecular techniques to examine ten samples and detect microbes previously undetectable in ancient feces.
The findings indicate intestinal infections were common due to contaminated water and food.
The study shows modern methods can expand understanding of ancient health.

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Story summary

Indiana University researchers analyzed 1,100–1,300-year-old feces from Cave of the Dead Children in Mexico and found Blastocystis and Escherichia coli, indicating poor sanitation among the Loma San Gabriel culture.
Researchers used advanced molecular techniques to examine ten samples and detect microbes previously undetectable in ancient feces.
The findings indicate intestinal infections were common due to contaminated water and food.
The study shows modern methods can expand understanding of ancient health.