After enduring the discomfort and expense of fixed orthodontia, many individuals are disheartened to find cavities and tooth discoloration upon removal. Fixed dental appliances can complicate proper oral care, which can lead to plaque accumulation and a higher risk of periodontal disease. To lower risks, dental professionals generally advise vigilant oral care with antiseptic oral […]
Parkinson’s Disease and Gut Microbiota Part 2
Targeted Strategies Parkinson’s disease (PD), a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, is commonly associated with motor symptoms but is often preceded by gastrointestinal issues long before diagnosis. Emerging studies reveal a strong link between gut dysbiosis and PD. These disruptions in the gut microbiome may drive disease progression through mechanisms such as increased intestinal permeability, inflammation, and […]
Parkinson’s Disease and Gut Microbiota Part 1
Part 1: Unraveling the Connection A progressive neurodegenerative disorder with devastating clinical symptoms, Parkinson’s disease (PD) afflicts an estimated 8.5 million people worldwide. Because age is a major risk factor, numbers are expected to soar as populations trend older. Tremors, muscle rigidity, and slow movement are hallmark symptoms of PD. Notably, many patients also experience […]
Give the Gift of Health This Holiday Season
It’s easy to slap a bow on a box of candy or a bottle of wine and call it your holiday gift. But why not break from the ordinary? This year, put your effort into thoughtful gifts that actually support the well-being of your loved ones (even if your difficult co-worker still deserves a dry […]
Healthy Holiday Feasts: Bringing Probiotics and Prebiotics to the Table
The holiday season is typically a time for indulgence, filled with rich, sugary, and high-fat foods that may be delicious but over time aren’t exactly friendly to our gut microbes. Changes in eating habits can throw your gut microbiota off balance, potentially weakening your immune system—just when you need it most during flu season. However, […]
Endocrine Disruptors and Gut Health: Risks for Expecting Mothers and Offspring
A pregnant woman is advised to avoid alcohol, tobacco, certain foods, many medications, hot tubs, saunas, and even kitty litter. More difficult to dodge are the endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) that are ubiquitous in her modern environment. Research on prenatal exposure to EDCs has found associations with changes in the gut microbiota, leading to dysbiosis. Such […]