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Author Charity Sembrero Categories Weekly Blog Posts Posted on 0 Comments

Gut Health Series Part 2: Gut Health and Inflammation

Gut health and inflammation are two subjects that have been receiving increasing interest from the medical community in recent years and also serves as a premise of our program. 

Inflammation is a natural response of the immune system to injury, infection, or stress. This is a healthy and natural process for our body to heal. However, chronic inflammation is not natural, nor healthy. Chronic inflammation can cause different health issues such as autoimmune disease, chronic arthritis, Alzheimers, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and even cancer. 

The gut, on the other hand,  contains trillions of microorganisms, also referred to as the microbiota. It assists in regulating the immune system and keeping your gut healthy.

This blog aims to explore the relationship between inflammation and gut health and offer recommendations for keeping the gut healthy.

Tips in Maintaining a Healthy Gut

First, let’s take a closer look at inflammation.

As a reaction to irritants like pathogens or toxins, the immune system releases cytokines that prompts the immune cells to migrate to the site of injury or infection to initiate healing. Inflammation naturally recedes once the threat has been resolved. However, chronic inflammation happens when the body experiences prolonged stress, environmental toxins, or a diet high in processed foods and sugar, resulting in an overactive immune system.

Now, let’s talk about gut health. 

The gut microbiota is a thriving community of microorganisms. These tiny creatures keep our immune system in check and support a healthy gut. The mucosal layer is a special lining that protects the gut. It acts as a defense against harmful substances from penetrating the bloodstream. For the layer to be strong, the gut microbiota produces short fatty acids to nourish the cells. 

So, what can we do to maintain a healthy gut and reduce inflammation? Here are some tips:

  1. Observe a whole food diet. 

Eat foods that are higher in fat content, but lower in carbohydrate count. Here is a list of many healthy recipes to consider. (Insert link to our recipe page on website)

  1. Avoid processed and sugary foods.

Process and sugary foods can disrupt the balance of the gut microbiota, resulting in inflammation and a range of health problems.

  1. Consume probiotics and prebiotics. 

Probiotics are live microorganisms that promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Prebiotics are a type of fiber that nurture the gut microbiota. You can find probiotics in fermented foods like yogurt and kefir, and prebiotics in foods like garlic, onions, and leeks. Although not all prebiotics and probiotics are created equal, it is generally a healthy habit to consume them. 

  1. Manage chronic stress. 

Regular stress is a very natural and healthy thing. Stress is your bodies natural response to a situation, which often induces focus. In short periods of time, there is a big upside to stress. However, chronic stress leads to the over-activation of the immune system and chronic inflammation. Reduce stress!  Try practices like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing, as well as proper rest. We have found that measuring things like sleep will create personal accountability, and thus assist in stress reduction. 

To sum up, gut health and inflammation are two topics that are almost intertwined. The gut microbiota regulates the immune system and maintains gut health. A healthy gut can help to minimize inflammation and prevent a variety of health problems. By following the tips outlined above, you can take steps to maintain a healthy gut and reduce inflammation in your body.

We are excited to provide to you the last installment next in this three part series related to gut health and your diet! Stay tuned!

Sources:

  1. Ciorba, M. A. (2012). A gastroenterologist’s guide to probiotics. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 10(9), 960-968.
  2. Gibson, G. R., Hutkins, R., Sanders, M. E., Prescott, S. L., Reimer, R. A., Salminen, S. J., … & Scott, K. (2017). Expert consensus document: The International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP) consensus statement on the definition and scope of prebiotics. Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Author Charity Sembrero Categories Expert Column Posted on 0 Comments

Alchohol’s effect on the brain – Andrew Huberman

In a podcast episode on “The Huberman Lab“, Andrew Huberman explores the effects of alcohol on the brain. He begins by discussing the ways in which alcohol consumption can impair brain function, including reduced cognitive abilities and impaired decision-making.

Huberman goes on to explain that alcohol affects various parts of the brain, including the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for executive functions such as decision-making, and the hippocampus, which is involved in memory and learning. He notes that alcohol can interfere with the communication between neurons in these regions, leading to a range of cognitive and behavioral effects.

Moreover, Huberman points out that alcohol consumption can also have long-term effects on the brain, including an increased risk of developing neurological disorders such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. He explains that chronic alcohol use can damage neurons and disrupt brain function over time, leading to cognitive decline and other neurological problems.

However, Huberman notes that moderate alcohol consumption may not have the same negative effects on the brain as heavy or chronic use. He explains that moderate drinking may have some health benefits, including a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke. Nevertheless, he emphasizes the importance of moderation and responsible drinking, as excessive alcohol consumption can have serious negative effects on both short-term and long-term brain function.

Overall, Huberman’s podcast provides a comprehensive overview of the effects of alcohol on the brain. It serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible drinking and the potential risks associated with excessive or chronic alcohol use.

Author Charity Sembrero Categories Top Ten Lists Posted on 0 Comments

Top ten myths about supplements

Supplements are becoming increasingly popular for people looking to improve their health and well-being, but there is often a lot of misinformation surrounding them. 

In this list, we will look at the top ten myths about supplements and debunk them to uncover the truth behind them.

Myth #1  Supplements are always safe and natural.

Not all supplements can be safe and not always natural. It is important to do research on the ingredients, as some supplements may contain dangerous chemicals or additives. That said, what should always happen is to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplement.

FACT: Supplements can have side effects and may interact with other medications or medical conditions. Additionally, not all supplements are natural, as some are created synthetically.

Reference: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/WYNTK-Consumer/

Myth #2: Supplements can replace a healthy diet.

Supplements cannot replace a healthy diet. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is the best way to get the nutrients your body needs. So, even if supplements can be beneficial in certain cases, they should never be used as a replacement for a healthy diet.

FACT: While supplements can be useful in filling nutrient gaps, they cannot replace the benefits of a balanced diet.

Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4109789/ 

Myth #3: All supplements are effective.

Just because a supplement is marketed as being beneficial does not mean that it actually is. It is always important to do research and consult with a healthcare provider before taking any supplement, as some supplements may not be effective or may, in fact, be dangerous.

FACT: There is no guarantee that any supplement will work for everyone. Additionally, the effectiveness of supplements may vary depending on individual factors.

Reference: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/WYNTK-Consumer/

Myth #4: Supplements are regulated by the FDA like drugs.

Dietary supplements are regulated differently than drugs by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). While the FDA does review the safety of dietary supplements, they do not have the same level of oversight as drugs.

FACT: Unlike drugs, supplements are not required to undergo pre-market testing for safety and efficacy by the FDA. However, the FDA does regulate supplement labeling and manufacturing practices.

Reference: https://www.fda.gov/food/information-consumers-using-dietary-supplements/questions-and-answers-dietary-supplements 

Myth #5: More is always better when it comes to supplements.

Taking too much of certain supplements can be dangerous, so it is important to only take the recommended dose. Additionally, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any supplement to ensure it is safe and effective for you.

FACT: Taking excessive amounts of supplements can lead to toxicity and adverse health effects. It is important to follow recommended dosages and seek medical advice before taking high doses.

Reference: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/WYNTK-Consumer/

Myth #6: All supplements are created equal.

Not all supplements are created equal, as some may contain ingredients that have not been adequately tested for safety or may not be as effective as others. It is important to do research and consult with a healthcare provider before taking any supplement to ensure it is safe and effective for you.

FACT: Not all supplements are of the same quality. Some may contain impurities or inaccurate labeling, while others may use higher quality ingredients.

Reference: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/using-dietary-supplements-wisely 

Myth #7: Supplements can cure diseases.

While some supplements may be beneficial for certain conditions, they should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. Some supplements may interact with other medications or medical conditions so consult with a healthcare professional first before taking any supplement.

FACT: While some supplements may have health benefits, they cannot cure diseases or replace medical treatment.

Reference: https://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/treatment-types/complementary-and-integrative-medicine/dietary-supplements/safety.html

Myth #8: All natural supplements are safe.

This is ​​not always true. While some natural supplements may be safe, it is important to do research and, again, consult with a health practitioner before taking any supplement, as some natural supplements may contain dangerous chemicals or additives.

FACT: Natural does not always mean safe. Some natural supplements can have adverse effects, such as interactions with medications or allergic reactions.

Reference: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/know-science/natural-doesnt-mean-better 

Myth #9: Supplements can help with weight loss.

It is not advisable to believe this because while some supplements may have beneficial effects, they should not be used as a substitute for a healthy diet and regular exercise. Physical activity and a balanced diet are still the most effective ways to lose weight. 

FACT: While some supplements may have ingredients that can aid in weight loss, there is no magic pill or supplement that can replace a healthy diet and exercise.

Reference: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/WeightLoss-HealthProfessional/ 

Myth #10: Supplements are necessary for optimal health.

Supplements can be beneficial for some individuals in achieving optimal health, but they are not necessary for everyone. Supplements should be used as a complement to a healthy diet, not a replacement for it. 

If you have a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of whole foods, you may be getting all the nutrients you need. But, let’s not forget, some people may have dietary restrictions, food allergies, or medical conditions that make it difficult to get all the necessary nutrients from food alone. To that end, supplements can be helpful in filling nutrient gaps. 

FACT: While some people may benefit from certain supplements, they are not necessary for overall health and wellbeing. A balanced diet, exercise, and other healthy lifestyle practices are essential for optimal health.

Reference: https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2013/08/should-you-take-dietary-supplements 

Author Diane Santos Categories Book Summary, Uncategorized, Weekly Blog Posts Posted on 0 Comments

Gut Health Series Part 1: Introduction

Your gut health serves as the center of your health. Gut health is linked to nearly every autoimmune disease, as well as most neurodegenerative disease. It also impacts mood, focus, sleep, recovery, as well as daily aches and pains of your body.

We are here to educate you on gut health, as well as how to get your gut health under control.

 

Gut Health Overview

Recent research has sparked a surge of interest in the world of gut health, revealing that our gut microbes play a vital role in our overall well-being. Studies have shown that the gut microbiome does much more than aid digestion; it also influences our metabolism, immune system, and even mental health. 

With groundbreaking findings pointing to the importance of gut health, it’s time to take a closer look at how our overall health and wellness is impacted by the tiny organisms that call our gut home. This is our first blog of a 3-part series on gut health.

Our gut described

Our gut – the long tube in our body that starts from the mouth, stomach, and bowel – is home to trillions of tiny microbes called bacteria. Some of those bacteria are good and some of those bacteria are bad. This system is collectively known as the gut microbiome and these bacteria play an important role in keeping us healthy by aiding our bodies in food digestion, water and vitamin absorption, producing vitamins and other essential compounds, and regulating our immune system.

There are two main types of bactiera:

Add continents on the two types of bacteria Firmocytes and bactofphies 

Sometimes, the balance of these gut bacteria can be disrupted, leading to a condition called gut dysbiosis, or leaky gut.  This means that there are too many harmful bacteria in the gut, which can cause health problems like constipation, diarrhea, or bloating. In more severe cases, gut dysbiosis can lead to irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease. But for purposes of our solution, the leaky gut causes chronic inflammation in your body, leading to the early stages of many diseases. 

There are a number of ways to help get your gut health under control, and we firmly believe that food is medicine. 

One of the key aspects of gut health research is on the study of probiotics – the live microorganisms that can improve gut health Probiotics have a number of beneficial effects on the gut microbiome such as reducing inflammation, improving digestion, and supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. 

The other area of gut health research is on the study of prebiotics – these are indigestible food ingredients that promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Prebiotics can help improve gut health by increasing the abundance of beneficial gut microbes, reducing inflammation, and improving overall gut function.

In later discussions, we will go into the different types of prebiotics and probiotics, and it is important to know that not all of them are created equal, and not all of them are equally beneficial specifically for you. 

Finally, gut health research highlights the importance of reducing exposure to harmful toxins including antibiotics, pesticides, and preservatives. Moreover, medical professionals suggest avoiding certain foods that can be harmful to the gut, such as processed and refined foods, as well as sugar and gluten. Just like the discussion of probiotics and prebiotics, not all foods that are healthy for you may be healthy for your neighbor or loved one. We believe in a personalized approach to gut health, and we will show you how to access that in later discussions. 

In conclusion, gut health research is a rapidly growing area providing new insights into the complex relationship between the gut microbiome our bodies and the inflammatory response that it may have on us. By understanding the impact of gut health and promoting a healthy gut microbiome through dietary and lifestyle changes, it may be possible to improve overall health and reduce the risk of many chronic diseases.

Our next blog post in this three part series will be on Gut health and Inflammation. Stay tuned in a few short days for another great article.

References:

  1. “What’s causing your IBS” – an article from Harvard Health Publishing that explains the relationship between diet and the gut microbiome causing IBS: https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/whats-causing-your-ibs 
  2. “The Gut Microbiome and Its Role in Obesity” – a review article from the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology that discusses the relationship between gut health and obesity: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5082693/ 
Author Charity Sembrero Categories Weekly Blog Posts Posted on 0 Comments

Your Health Transformation with AliRx: Our Solution (Part 3 of 3)

Our health-promoting daily practices support your body’s natural ability to fight inflammation. In an effort to help you operate better, feel better, and think clearly, we have created a positive and encouraging platform for you and to help you transform and take your life and health back!

Our Process

Our process consists of a few simple steps:

  1. An in-home testing kit sent straight to you
  2. Laboratory results 
  3. The creation of personalized recipes and supplements specific to your own gut health
  4. Utilizing our guide as your food prescription to be sure the food is now your medicine. Its that simple. 

Our process, when you sign up, is simple and personalized for you:

  1. Sign up through the member portal to create your account, and gain access to your documents. 
  2. Testing kit: You will receive a testing kit in the mail, sent directly to your home.
  3. After you complete the test, you simply ship it back, at which time, you will be notified of your results via email and text.
  4. Log in to your member portal. The results will show you a full and comprehensive list of foods that are good for you, and foods that are not good for you. You can see a sample of the report right here:
  5. We then will code your results into our meal and supplement software at which time we will then provide your personalized recipes, meals, and supplements, all with the goal of improving your gut health and reducing your body’s inflammation. You will receive a personalized guide and journal to make it easy for you. 
  6. Every six months, you will be asked to retest. As your gut health changes over time, so will the types of food you should be consuming. 
  7. You are now on your path to health, happiness, longevity, and a life where your quality of life will meet your length of life!

In addition to our process, as a member, you will receive constant updates to your recipe guide. As we understand the types of foods you like, and don’t like, your guide will be updated. In addition, we are adding hundreds of new recipes weekly, and those that are a fit for you will be added accordingly. 

Thank you for joining the AliRx community! We are happy to be your partner on your health transformation. 

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