In a position trailing many countries in the developed world, the United States is taking steps to limit the routine use of antibiotics for cows, pigs and chickens. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that antibiotics will no longer be used to make animals grow bigger—and more profitable—but will be reserved to fight infections. […]
Gut Microbes Implicated in OCD
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a devastating disorder known to be triggered by stressful life events but the actual cause is unknown. This is from Mayo Clinic online: “Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder characterized by unreasonable thoughts and fears (obsessions) that lead you to do repetitive behaviors (compulsions). With obsessive-compulsive disorder, you may […]
Indulge in Health for the Holidays
However you celebrate the holidays, be sure to add some probiotic goodness to your festivities. Yogurt is a delicious place to start. It can be easily stirred into sweet or savory dips and soups for both flavor and nutrition. Also, banana and pumpkin breads will benefit with a moist addition such as yogurt or buttermilk. […]
Probiotics Under Study in Cystic Fibrosis
A devastating lung disease which strikes in childhood, cystic fibrosis causes recurrent airway infections. Treatment involves copious antibiotics; this leads to disturbed microbial populations. Could probiotics help? A pilot study in Israel found that probiotics reduced pulmonary exacerbation rates in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Ten CF patients were supplemented with Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG for six months. This […]
Can Probiotics Help Diabetic Foot Ulcers?
With the explosion in cases of diabetes (the International Diabetes Federation predicts 1 in 10 worldwide could have diabetes by 2030), complications of this chronic condition will soar. Diabetic foot ulcer is one which requires vigilance and thoughtful care. Delayed wound healing and higher rates of infection can occur and lead to more serious events. […]
The Uncommon Cold
Because it infects adults between two and four times per year, the guilty virus has earned its name as the common cold. What to do? Decongestants and antihistamines may relieve its miserable symptoms including fever, sore throat and stuffy noses. Zinc and vitamin C have shown some benefit. Of course, antibacterials are useless because […]