The use of probiotics has become quite widespread lately. But as is common among topics that rapidly rise in popularity, misinformation is easily spread as some companies may prey on customers’ ignorance. We think it’s time to debunk the most common myths about probiotics.
It’s never fun to be at home with a cold or flu. While we may not be able to prevent them, we may be able to take steps that can reduce our exposure and have an impact on duration and severity. Here are some things you can do before, during, and even after the onset of a cold or flu:
Looking for ways to support healthy immune function? Eric Lundquist, MD shared a variety of options to consider as ways to help support immune health.
There is no doubt that sleep plays a crucial role in brain health and function, and as it turns out, the gut and the brain are basically in constant communication through the gut-brain axis. More specifically, the gut in gut-brain axis refers to the microbiome, or the collection of all microorganisms like bacteria, yeasts, and fungi that live in the intestines. The gut-brain axis is a two-way communication, so not only can those little critters in the gut influence heath, but mental and emotional state of a person can impact the microbiome.
Between the heaps of sugar from cookies and candies, and the mountains of gravy from a seasonal roast, the months of November and December—actually let’s be honest, more like the months of October through January—are not known for being health-promoting.
Some things never change: The kids go back to school in the fall, the leaves change color shortly after, the holiday season approaches with increasing speed every passing year, and the cold or flu always seems to hit a household when all of these festivities are happening.
The first thought that likely comes to mind when you hear the word “microbiome,” is the gut. But the human microbiome extends far beyond the intestines. The word microbiome refers to the trillions of microorganisms including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites that call the human body home.1 These little critters, especially bacteria, are mostly concentrated in the small and large intestine, but also inhabit the skin.1
Between trying to eat a balanced diet, getting enough exercise, and sleeping a sufficient amount, is remembering to take a probiotic every day really essential for your health?
Gut health is important for overall health, and there are many wide-ranging causes that can affect gut health. Here are a few things to consider as you work to get your gut back on track.
