4 benefits of gut health supplements

4 benefits of gut health supplements

Poor gut health can  be the cause of  several health issues such as eczema and diabetes. One of the best ways to keep the gut healthy is by ensuring the gut microbiome is balanced. Probiotics play a huge role in maintaining gut health, and while they are present in certain foods, one can boost their intake by taking supplements. These supplements, also called gut health supplements, can help manage digestive issues and other conditions.

Replenishes good bacteria in the gut
Probiotics are live bacteria, also called the “good” bacteria. These good bacteria are present in the gut and are responsible for aiding digestion and maintaining good gut health. Often, these good gut bacteria get killed due to certain health issues and the treatment options required for them. If the bacteria is not replenished in time, certain harmful bacteria and viruses can take their place in the gut. In such cases, taking gut health supplements can be very beneficial. These supplements replenish good bacteria in the gut and help restore one’s gut health.

Helps reduce digestive disorders
Several studies have shown that probiotics help in digestion and aid in tackling digestive issues such as diarrhea. Most digestive issues occur due to an imbalance in gut bacteria. Probiotics help restore this balance and create a healthy gut environment, restoring healthy digestion.  This  is why gut health supplements can  be very beneficial for  digestive issues such as IBS, bloating, flatulence, and constipation. Gut health supplements can even help one restore their altered bowel habits.

Improves immune function
Many studies have also shown that gut health supplements can help improve immune function and fight certain diseases.  It was found that certain  probiotics can improve the body’s immune response, which then helps fight infections more effectively. Another study found that the strains of two of the good gut bacteria,  called  Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria, can help reduce the severity of the common cold and flu. Additional research showed that probiotics can even reduce the severity of allergic conditions and certain skin ailments such as eczema.

Improves mood
Probiotics and gut health supplements can also improve one’s mood and emotional and mental health. It has been found that taking probiotics has helped reduce anxiety and depression and improve one’s memory. The reason for this could be that gut bacteria play a role in the production of neurotransmitters, which carry messages to the brain. Neurotransmitters then help manage a person’s mental health by regulating their sleep and mood.    So, taking gut health supplements can prove to be quite effective in managing mental health.

One must consult one’s healthcare specialist before beginning to take probiotics. It is advisable to ask one’s doctor about the duration one must take the gut health supplements, if it will affect any ongoing treatment, and so on.

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Coping with urges that can trigger a relapse post treatment

Addictions when left untreated can turn into crippling conditions. One can be addicted to smoking, binge drinking, or even shopping. Once addicted, one willfully submits to urges, despite having satisfied them before. However, addictions can be managed and to a great extent treated to full recovery. But, the post-recovery phase is crucial where both the mind and body are put to test and can trigger a relapse. Continue reading to know more about the most common triggers for addictions and how to deal with them.Stress Stress is commonly the root cause of many problems and addictions, both physical and psychological. One can become an addict as a way to manage the stress that may stem from strained relationships or priorities. The best way to avoid a relapse during recovery is to make lifestyle changes that don’t trigger a return to addictions amidst a stressful situation. One can practice mindfulness, engage in relaxation techniques, manage one’s time to avoid stressful situations, and imbibe healthy eating habits and exercise in their daily routine. EmotionsThere is an umpteen number of triggers that invoke a positive or negative emotional response. However, the stress associated with dealing with emotions daily can trigger urges without one even realizing. Often, one turns to a glass of alcohol or relies on prescription medications to put the mind at ease. It is not a permanent solution and prolonged use of these substances can cause more harm in the long run. One must learn and explore productive ways of controlling emotions better to avoid a relapse during recovery. For example, writing and maintaining a journal that contains one’s feelings and thoughts can act as a healthy outlet. Similarly, there are other healthy ways to channel one’s energy and manage emotional responses.Positive conditioningPeople who have addictions such as smoking or drinking may often find themselves in situations where a lit cigarette or a glass of wine can trigger a relapse. This is understandable considering these substances were the primary source of comfort and relaxation. However, with positive reinforcement and reconditioning one can train the mind and curb such urges. Relaxation doesn’t always mean techniques like yoga or meditation, it can also be pursuing your hobby. Counseling for group gatheringsBirthdays, parties, New Year’s events, and any celebration in general call for alcohol consumption and smoking. At times, these could be the very addictions one is recovering from, and in a social gathering, such temptations can be strong. However, a recovering addict should refrain from indulging in any of these as even a taste can turn into a relapse. For instance, a recovering alcoholic must avoid having a single drink as that could put him/her on a slippery slope to relapse. Here, one-on-one counseling can help prepare the mind to resist the urge. It is never healthy for a recovering addict to simply avoid socializing fearing a relapse.

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9 glaring signs of developing psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin disease characterized by inflammation in the body. Dead skin cells build up on the skin's surface, causing itching, burning, or stinging sensations. Psoriasis can appear in small spots or cover larger areas around the ears, feet, hands, eyelids, nails, scalp, or genitals. Sometimes, it may appear in more than one place at once. When it affects areas like the face or hands, it can significantly reduce the quality of life. Glaring signs of psoriasis Plaque development Plaques are another most common sign of psoriasis. They are red, thick, raised patches on the skin that can be covered with a thin, silvery-white coating known as scale. The size of plaques may also vary, and they may join together to form larger patches. Most commonly, plaques may appear on the scalp, elbows, knees, or lower back. Dry skin The plaques or scales in psoriasis can disrupt the skin's moisture and often lead to dry skin. In cases like erythrodermic psoriasis, the skin may even look burnt. Persistent itching Itching around and on the thickened skin is another common sign of psoriasis. However, one should avoid scratching the affected areas since it can thicken the patches and worsen symptoms. Inflammation Swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are common signs of psoriasis caused due to inflammation. Bumps on skin One may also experience tiny bumps on the skin that appear out of nowhere. They usually are seen in areas where the skin rubs against the skin, like armpits or genitals. They may also appear on the torso, legs, or arms or even develop on the face. They may be scaly, small, light pinkish, and sometimes appear like brown dots. Psoriasis bumps may be temporary and clear out within weeks. Some may return, while some may not. Sometimes, the bumps may be filled with pus and appear on hands and feet. If one notices these bumps, it's best not to disregard them as an allergy or infection. Get them checked medically by a skin specialist. Red patches One may notice smooth, red patches of skin or swollen red skin dotted with bumps, especially in the case of inverse psoriasis. They may be tiny, sore to the touch, and look raw. Sore skin The condition often makes the skin feel painful or sore, making simple acts like walking or lifting hands unbearable. One may also experience heel pain or tender joints and heels. Fever and muscle weakness Psoriasis patients may also fall ill, experience muscle weakness, chills, or a rapid pulse, run a temperature and need immediate medical attention. They may also notice unnatural morning stiffness. Tiny dents on nails Nail psoriasis is a condition that can cause the appearance of pits or dents on nails. These pits can be white, yellow, or brown in color. Additionally, the affected nails feel rough to the touch and brittle and lift up from the nail bed due to a buildup of skin beneath them.

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