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PROBIOTICS: What Are They & Why Do We Need Them for Our Digestion
PROBIOTICS: What Are They & Why Do We Need Them for Our Digestion We have bacteria in our gut. And a lot. (Trivia: There are approximately 500 bacterial species in the gut, specially, the colon.) The good news, most of them are friendly and have a ton of important functions that need to happen every day in order to maintain a strong digestive system. To break the friendly down, “Pro” means “good,” and “biotics” means life thus probiotics are referred to as, the friendly, beneficial bacterial gut flora species in the gut. Their Functions: • aid in protecting the digestive system from an overgrowth of germs • stimulate…
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Ask the Doctor :: Getting Healthy After The Holidays
Image courtesy of Flickr Ask the Doctor: Question: I’m not following my New Year’s ( healthy) resolutions. Any tips on how I can? January is a great time to cozy up on the sofa, with a warming tea, and reflect upon your last year. I’m not a fan of resolutions; however, taking a few moments to find ways to bring a healthier you, can be very rewarding. What made you feel the happiest and healthiest last year? I will ask myself: Did that kale smoothie make me feel more energized? Did it feel good to offer my Human Body Detectives books and apps for free? If yes, then I…
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Botanical Medicines: 3 Essentials for Your Natural Pharmacy
Traditional botanical medicine is based on the use of plants and/or their extracts. It is also referred to as herbalism, medical herbology, phytotherapy, and herbal medicine. Probably the most well – known herbal medicine is echinacea. The first writings of echinacea were in the late 1800s and commonly used in the Native American population to treat anything from sore throats to coughs to toothaches. Below are three less commonly known; however, essentials for every natural pharmacy. 1. Licorice – Glycirriza glabra soothes the digestive system, nourishes the adrenal glands, and strengthens the immune system. History Many people think of licorice as a candy; however, its therapeutic herbal usage dates back…
