Nutrition. Vitamins. You.
Protein Powders Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND Invite health has a number of different type of protein powders. These include a whey based protein, a plant based protein and even a weight management powder that can help improve our overall nutrition. That being said why is …
Cancer and Weight Loss Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND Weight loss is a common side effect experienced by those with cancer. This weight loss can occur for a number of reasons. To start with, having cancer can lead to weight loss. This is because in some …
INTRODUCING PROBIOTIC HX IMMUNE~GUT AND IMMUNE SUPPORT
By: Allie Might, FMC, INHC, ATT
We all know about the benefits of a probiotic. Whether you know about it through a healthcare or wellness provider or from commercials and advertisements, it’s rather familiar to us all. However, how do you choose the right one for your specific needs? Well, let’s explore my new favorite option, PROBIOTIC HX IMMUNE, and how it can be beneficial.
Let’s take this opportunity to get an understanding on what this product can do, as well as the benefits of the ingredients within this new formulation. Each capsule contains Vitamin D, Zinc, FOS and a blend of four healthy bacteria strains. One of my favorite things about Probiotic Hx Immune is that it can be taken as a standalone part of any supplement regimen, but also as a compliment to the original Probiotic Hx.
One of the reasons Probiotic Hx Immune is so beneficial is because it not only helps to support the immune system, but also supplies the gut with the healthy bacteria it needs. A healthy gut is so important for the immune system because 70-80% of the immune system is housed within the gut.
Vitamin D is most often associated with bone health, but it is so much more. One of the things it does is help support the immune system. A study from The National Library of Medicine: National Center for Biotechnology Information titled ‘The Effects of Vitamin D on Immune System and Inflammatory Diseases’ shows how important this vitamin is to the immune system and why it’s necessary to maintain a healthy and optimum level. It’s been shown that those that are deficient in vitamin D can be of greater risk for illness and disease. Optimal vitamin D levels are said to be between 30-80 ng/ml, however many holistic practitioners recommend levels of 50-80 ng/ml for optimal wellness.
Zinc is the go-to for many when they aren’t feeling well. How many times have we heard “oh, you have a sore throat or a cold…have a zinc lozenge.”? This is such a true statement and one that many follow, whether they are regular supplement users or only use supplements once in a while. Vitamin D has been shown to help the body to fight germs, therefore helping to shorten such common ailments like colds, coughs, sore throats or the flu.
Fructoligosaccharides (FOS) is a sweetener and is considered to be a great prebiotic…it’s also safe for diabetics as it don’t effect blood sugar levels. A prebiotic is important as it helps feed and support the healthy bacteria in the gut. Due to FOS acting as a food source for the probiotic to flourish and allow the bacterial strains to be shelf table without the need for refrigeration.
Lactobacillus Acidophilus is a common, well-known probiotic and typically the one everyone thinks of when the subject of probiotics are discussed. This strain is used by the body to help regulate the immune system and help to decrease the ability of germs or microbes grow in the gut. Lactobacillus Acidophilus is also often recommended for those on antibiotics, IBS, H. pylori, acne and some seasonal allergies just to name a few.
Lactobacillus Casei serves double duty for us, as it’s used in making certain foods like yogurt and some cheeses, as well as helps the body internally. This strain has been shown to help stimulate the immune system which makes us less susceptible to viruses, colds and the flu. It also works to decrease candida overgrowth, respiratory infections and some allergies. Lactobacillus casei is also necessary to maintain good gut health by aiding in the breakdown and absorption of food.
Lactobacillus Rhamnosus issued in the gut to help breakdown food, as well as produce vitamin B12 and vitamin K. This strain is responsible for creating a barrier against harmful bacteria, keeping them from feeding and multiplying. They also help to activate they body’s immune system for proper response when “invaded”. Lactobacillus Rhamnosus has been shown to assist in the management of inflammation making it very helpful for those with such digestive issues such as IBS, ulcerative colitis, constipation and diarrhea. Even those that tend to be prone to experiencing gas and bloating can benefit from this incredibly useful probiotic strain.
Bifidobacterium Longum compliments the three lactobacillus strains we’ve discussed. It also aids in digestion and the absorption of nutrients needed for the foods we consume. It has been widely studied and is effective in those suffering from inflammatory bowel disease, colitis and Crohn’s disease by helping to reduce inflammation within the digestive tract. Bifidobacterium Longum also boosts immune response and increases cardiovascular health, particularly in those with elevated cholesterol levels.
As you can see, Probiotic Hx Immune is a powerhouse supplement for anyone. The benefits are wide-ranging and let’s be honest….we all want a strong immune system. I hope you like this new blend as much as I do!
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33803407/
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8615708/
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5748737/
health.clevelandclinic.org/zinc
www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319299#Other-benefits-of-FOS
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9879625/
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9668099/
www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-790/lactobacillus-acidophilus
probiotics.org/l-casei/
www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1670/lacticaseibacillus-casei
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30741841/
www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/what-to-know-about-lgg-probiotic
Bilberry for Eye Health and More!!! Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND In this blog we will be talking about Bilberry. Yes you read that correct, bilberry not blueberry. Now I bet your thinking but Dr. Claire what exactly is the difference between a bilberry and …
HERPES VS COLD SORES~ IS THERE A DIFFERENCE? By: Allie Might, FMC, INHC, ATT Herpes…the word always seems make people cringe and curl their face in disbelief. It is associated with sores along the nether regions of the body. Many people are plagued with …
HEPATITIS~ THE TYPES, THE SUPPORT AND CAN IT BE PREVENTED?
By: Allie Might, FMC, INHC, ATT
Hepatitis is a disease that we’ve all heard about and it also triggers fear for many when it’s discussed. It is often associated with hypodermic needle drug users, giving it a really bad reputation. However, more often it is in the news due to an outbreak at a restaurant, or talked about in the gossip pages when some of our iconic celebrities are mentioned. While this makes us aware of hepatitis, what do we really know about it? Let’s explore the more common types and how we can protect ourselves.
What exactly is hepatitis? While there are many types, the three most common are types A, B and C, and simply put, hepatitis is a virus that causes inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis can be an acute (temporary or short term) or chronic (ongoing or long term) condition. Common symptoms can include fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, stomach pain and even a fever, mimicking a stomach flu or food poisoning. In more severe cases, one may experience dark urine, itchy skin, jaundice (yellowed skin and/or eyes) or even become disoriented.
Hepatitis A is a virus that typically isn’t harmful but is highly contagious and can take anywhere from a couple weeks to multiple months to recover from. While it can be transmitted by direct contact with someone who’s infected (sexual contact, shared needles, etc.), it is commonly transmitted through contaminated food and/or drinks. This happens by being exposed to soil, water or poor hygiene as the contamination is usually through feces. This is normally acute and clears up without long-term effects on the liver.
Hepatitis B can be acute and/or asymptomatic for many years, causing it to unknowingly be spread to others. Healthy diet, hydration, and continued monitoring with your doctor can help manage acute Hep B. Chronic Hep B can be more serious and as the liver inflammation may also be accompanied with scarring, or cirrhosis, particularly if ones immune system is weakened. The CDC and Mayo Clinic recommend managing this with your doctor and wellness team can help you live a healthy life as the goal would be to avoid liver failure and possible transplant. Those at risk may have a compromised immune system (i.e.: HIV+), hypodermic needle users (when sharing) and sharing bodily fluids (sexual activity). It can also be transmitted during the birthing process. These are just some of the common risks for this liver disease.
Hepatitis C is the most serious of these three types of hepatitis. The same people that are at risk for Hep B are also at risk for contracting Hep C. It is usually contracted through blood. Complications can include cirrhosis, liver cancer and liver failure. It is imperative for those diagnosed with Hep C to follow doctor’s recommendations and lead a safe and healthy lifestyle.
Green Tea, the powerful go-to antioxidant for so many health related issues. Studies have shown that consuming green tea on a regular basis may help reduce the risk of liver disease, including hepatitis.
Milk Thistle is an herb that is associated with liver health. It is often recommended for those diagnosed with hepatitis as a way to manage inflammation in the liver.
NAC, or N-Acetyl-Cysteine, it commonly used to support healthy liver function. It has been shown in studies to help lower the mortality rate in those suffering from hepatitis induced from alcoholism, particularly when combined with traditional treatment.
Hepatox Hx can be a complimentary formula as it contains milk thistle, dandelion and phyllanthus amarus. In addition to the benefits of milk thistle, dandelion and phyllanthus amarus have been shown to lower the mortality rate for those with liver failure and also helping to suppress the effects of hepatitis.
As you can see, hepatitis comes in many forms and numerous ways it can be contracted. Those that have been infected with one type can be at higher risk for other types. For instance, if someone has had acute Hep A, they are at higher risk for Hep B or Hep C if they are ever exposed. Practicing good hygiene, a healthy lifestyle and taking care of the liver can be a key factor in avoiding or managing hepatitis. Honest communication and appropriate protection with any new partners you choose to be with is also important to help stop the spread of hepatitis. There are also vaccines available for further protection….ask your doctor for more information and if this is right for you. There is so much research and studies being done, and I included informative articles here for more information (see below).
www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/abc/index.htm
my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/hepatitis
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8072198/
www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hepatitis-a/symptoms-causes/syc-20367007
www.webmd.com/hepatitis/digestive-diseases-hepatitis-a
www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hepatitis-b/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20366821
www.cdc.gov/hepatitis-b/hcp/diagnosis-testing/index.html
www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hepatitis-c/symptoms-causes/syc-20354278
www.webmd.com/hepatitis/digestive-diseases-hepatitis-c
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4538013/
www.hepb.org/blog/milk-thistle/
www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1101214
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8063808/
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9395786/