Gut Microbiota Diversity in the Young and Old
A factor in disease conditions and aging? In recent decades, there has been an explosion of information regarding the role that the human microbiota plays in both health and disease. Projects such as the National Institutes of Health Human Microbiome Project,[1] and similar collaborative efforts in other countries, have focused on the collection of…
Leaky Gut, Autoimmunity, and Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) – Oh My!
Harm from one kind of bacteria, healing from another What’s LPS, and why should I care? Lipopolysaccharide, or LPS, is the major component of the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria. LPS contributes to the structural integrity of the bacteria, protecting the membrane from certain kinds of chemical attack. LPS is of crucial importance to…
It’s Not Just Antibiotics that Potentially Harm Gut Health
Which of these prescription medications are YOU taking? Most people are aware that antibiotic medications can alter the balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut. In addition to the science we have proving this, many of us have personally experienced upset bellies and changes in stool patterns upon taking an antibiotic. However,…
Herbal and Nutritional Allies for Tick-Borne Illness
Clinical evidence supports the use of natural substances for reducing symptoms associated with Lyme disease We all are becoming more aware of Lyme disease, as the incidence of this tick-borne infection is on the rise, particularly in the endemic regions of the upper Midwest and Northeastern United States.[1] Confirmed cases continue to show up…
Avoiding Alzheimer’s Today, Tomorrow, and Beyond – Part 2 of 2
A proactive approach to reducing the risk of dementia In Part 2 of this two-part series, we investigate some botanicals and additional supplements which complement nutritional and lifestyle factors for the prevention of cognitive decline. Also, you may want to listen to Dr. Decker’s live interview with Natural Medicine Journal on the topic of…
Stomach Acidity, Dietary Intake, and the Microbiome
The gut microbiome, stomach acidity, sloths, and you. In recent years we’ve seen an explosion in the research on the importance of the collection of trillions of bacteria, viruses, and fungi living in the human body, collectively known as the microbiome. We now know that a vast array of health conditions such as obesity,[1]…
Supplements for Sleep and Relaxation Support
Supplements for Better Sleep When it comes to natural sleep aids and relaxation support, we tend to think of melatonin. As helpful as this supplement can be, it can cause morning grogginess in some people. Thankfully, there are many other nutraceuticals well shown to support relaxation and healthy sleep. Beyond melatonin, natural amino acids…
Reducing the Risk of Alzheimer’s
A proactive approach to reducing the risk of dementia Anyone who has watched the health of a love one decline after a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease knows all too well the challenges that come with this condition. Not just memory loss, but personality changes, impaired reasoning skills, and even motor issues – dementia slowly…
Grape Seed Polyphenols and the Gut Microbiota
Digestive health affects the healing potential of these potent antioxidant polyphenols Grape seed extract (GSE) by no means is new to the nutraceutical world, yet we are still unveiling the myriad of benefits from the antioxidant-like nutritional compounds found within it. We are also gaining broader knowledge of the mechanisms by which individual responses…
From Childhood to the Elderly: Evidence for Melatonin
An array of clinical research shows the safety and efficacy of melatonin in healthy and compromised populations Many a time in life when the stress hormones are flying, we also have the unfortunate experience of struggling to sleep. The experience of insomnia is not uncommon, with about one-third to two-thirds of adults experiencing insomnia…
Addressing Allergies: A Multi-Pronged Approach
Strategies for soothing itchy eyes and silencing sneezes Much like the majority of chronic, and even acute, health conditions we may face, there are many approaches to the treatment of allergies. The immune system is one major focus, but the health of the gut, management of environmental triggers, correction of nutritional deficiencies, and the…
Sleep, Cytokines, and Inflammation
The pro-inflammatory consequences of the lack of sleep So many of us struggle with sleep, and have difficulties getting enough rest in terms of both time and quality. Whether it be due to nighttime awakenings to care for children or loved ones, a demanding job, or a health condition, sleep problems can cause trouble…
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