Your body hosts trillions of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, collectively known as the microbiome. While some bacteria are linked to disease, many play essential roles in supporting your immune system, heart health, weight management, and overall well-being. This article delves into the significance of the gut microbiome and its impact on health.

What Is Gut Microbiome?

Interestingly, bacterial cells outnumber human cells in the body, with approximately 40 trillion bacterial cells compared to 30 trillion human cells. With up to 1,000 species of bacteria present in the gut, each plays a distinct role. While most bacteria contribute positively to health, some can be harmful. Together, these microbes weigh around 1–2 kilograms, functioning almost like an additional organ essential for overall well-being.

How Does Gut Microbiome Influence Your Health?

The relationship between humans and microbes has evolved over millions of years, with the gut microbiome playing a crucial role from birth. Initial exposure to microbes occurs during birth, and some evidence suggests that exposure begins in the womb. As the microbiome diversifies, it starts influencing key bodily functions:

Digestion of breast milk: Beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacteria help break down essential sugars in breast milk, supporting infant growth.

Fiber digestion: Some bacteria process fiber into short-chain fatty acids, which contribute to gut health and reduce risks of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

Immune system regulation: The gut microbiome interacts with immune cells, influencing how the body responds to infections.

Brain health: Emerging research suggests a link between the gut microbiome and brain function, potentially affecting mental health and neurological processes.

Gut Microbiome And Weight Management

An imbalance between beneficial and harmful microbes, known as gut dysbiosis, may contribute to weight gain. Studies on identical twins—one with obesity and the other without—suggest that microbiome composition plays a role in body weight independent of genetics. Additionally, animal studies indicate that gut bacteria can influence weight gain, even when calorie intake remains constant.

Probiotics, beneficial bacteria found in supplements and certain foods, can help restore gut balance and support weight loss, though their effects may be modest.

Gut Health And Disease Prevention

The gut microbiome plays a vital role in preventing and managing conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Imbalances in gut bacteria may lead to bloating, cramps, and digestive issues. On the other hand, beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli help strengthen the intestinal lining, reducing the risk of gut-related disorders.

Impact On Heart Health

Research suggests that the gut microbiome influences heart health by affecting cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Certain harmful bacteria produce trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), a compound linked to blocked arteries and heart disease. However, probiotics, particularly those containing Lactobacilli, may help reduce cholesterol levels and promote cardiovascular health.

Blood Sugar Regulation And Diabetes Risk

The gut microbiome also plays a role in regulating blood sugar levels. Research on infants genetically predisposed to type 1 diabetes indicates that gut microbiome diversity declines before disease onset. Furthermore, individual variations in gut bacteria may explain why people experience different blood sugar responses to the same foods.

Connection Between Gut And Brain

The gut is physically connected to the brain through nerves, and certain bacteria help produce neurotransmitters like serotonin, which influence mood and mental health. Studies indicate that people with mental health disorders often have different gut bacteria compared to those without such conditions. Additionally, some probiotics have shown promise in alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Tips For Healthier Gut Microbiome

Maintaining a balanced gut microbiome is crucial for overall health. Here are some strategies to support gut health:

• Eat a diverse range of foods: A varied diet rich in fiber, legumes, and fruits promotes microbial diversity.
• Consume fermented foods: Yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut contain probiotics that enhance gut health.
• Limit artificial sweeteners: Some artificial sweeteners can encourage the growth of harmful bacteria.
• Include prebiotic foods: Bananas, oats, and asparagus contain fibers that nourish beneficial bacteria.
• Breastfeed infants when possible: Breastfeeding promotes a healthier gut microbiome in babies.
• Choose whole grains: Whole grains contain fiber and beneficial compounds that support digestive health.
• Opt for a plant-based diet: Vegetarian diets may reduce inflammation and support a healthier gut microbiome.
• Consume polyphenol-rich foods: Green tea, dark chocolate, and olive oil contain compounds that foster beneficial bacteria.
• Take probiotics if needed: Probiotic supplements can help restore gut balance after disruptions, such as antibiotic use.
• Use antibiotics cautiously: While antibiotics can be life-saving, overuse can harm beneficial gut bacteria.

Flu season is hitting hard this year, and the symptoms could feel relentless. People are suffering from rising fever, hacking cough, blocked and stuffy nose and sore throat. While many people get relief from Tamiflu, which is a prescribed antiviral medication that is used to treat or even to prevent illness, there are other alternatives available too.

Dr Ari Brown, a Texas based pediatrician and the author of Baby411 book series told CNN health that one of the most common complaints that she gets to hear from Tamiflu is vomiting. A 2023 study published in the Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal notes that 18% of people experienced vomiting with Tamiflu, as compared to 5% with Xofluza, an alternative.

“I’ve also had a few pediatric patients experience moodiness with Tamiflu, which is reported in the literature,” she said.

Read: Adenovirus Cases Rise In UK, Health Authorities On Alert

Tamiflu is usually gives to treat flu in people ages 2 weeks and older and to reduce the chance of getting the flu in people 1 year and older. The medicine could be administered in both form, liquid and capsules and usually taken twice daily for five days straight. This is prescribed for when flu is to be treated. However, when used for prevention, it is typically taken once for 10 days.

What Are The Other Alternatives Available For Flu Treatment?

Xofluza: It is administered as a single dose tablet and is approved for ages 5 and older. This medicine can also be used to treat or to prevent the flu. While it costs nearly $200 for those without insurance, eligible patients can use coupons to lessen costs. Dr Brown points out that this medicine could have side effects like diarrhea and vomiting. However, the study aforementioned notes that for this, only 5% patients had vomiting symptoms, when compared with Tamiflu.

Dr Brown also said that Xofluza can stop viral shedding in one day, while Tamiflu could take up to three days. "Both antivirals will help reduce the duration of misery by couple of days," she pointed out.

Dr Brown also pointed out that overall, "Xofluza is rising in popularity over Tamiflu." “One dose. Fewer side effects. More insurances are covering the cost of it now and manufacturer coupon makes it less expensive than in previous years," she said.

Rapivab: This is another prescribed medication that is approved to treat flu. This could be administered for people ages 6 months and older. It has to be given by a health care provider, as it is given once as an intravenous infusion. It could cost up to $1,000 without insurance and most common reaction in adults is diarrhea.

Relenza: This flu medication is inhaled in powder form. It is administered through an inhaler device, which is to be used twice a day for five days straight. The prescribed drug is approved to treat flu in ages 7 and older and for preventative use, in ages 5 and older. It could cost about $90 without insurance.

It may have side effects like dizziness, allergic reaction, or irritation of the nose. It is not recommended for people who have breathing issues or have asthma.

Hangover headaches are miserable. Most people know that drinking too much alcohol can leave you with a long list of next-day problems, and a headache is one of the most common. You will find no shortage of so-called hangover headache “fixes” online, in home remedies, and even on store shelves. The problem is that very few of them are backed by solid scientific evidence. The surest way to prevent a hangover headache is to watch how much alcohol you drink at one time. That said, there are a few simple, home-based steps that may lower your risk of waking up with a headache, and some practical ways to manage the pain if it has already set in.

What Is A Hangover?

A hangover refers to the uncomfortable physical and mental effects you experience after drinking too much alcohol the night before. According to the Cleveland Clinic, hangovers are extremely common among people who overdrink. One study found that nearly 75% of people who consumed excessive alcohol reported hangover symptoms the following day. The same research suggested that about 25% to 30% of drinkers may not experience hangovers at all.

How Much Alcohol Does It Take To Get A Hangover?

Drinking more than one alcoholic beverage per hour can lead to a hangover. Your body generally needs about an hour to break down and process a single drink. As explained by the Cleveland Clinic, one drink is roughly equal to:

• One 12-ounce can of regular or light beer (5% alcohol).
• Half a pint, or about 8 to 9 ounces, of malt liquor or many craft beers (7% alcohol).
• One 5-ounce glass of table wine (12% alcohol).
• One shot, or 1.5 ounces, of liquor (40% alcohol).

How To Cure Hangover Headache At Home?

Many products and home remedies claim they can cure a hangover, but most are not supported by science, and some may even do harm. For instance, having more alcohol the next morning does not fix a hangover. It simply adds more toxins to your system.

Instead, consider these self-care measures for hangover relief:

• Eat simple foods with complex carbohydrates, such as toast or crackers. These can help raise low blood sugar levels and ease nausea.
• Drink plenty of fluids. Water, electrolyte drinks like Gatorade® or Pedialyte®, broth, and other non-alcoholic beverages can help counter dehydration. A good sign you are rehydrated is when your urine becomes clear.
• Get adequate sleep to help your body recover from fatigue.
• Use antacids to calm stomach discomfort.

Consider aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen to relieve aches and pains. NSAIDs are generally the most effective medications for hangover-related pain, but they should be used cautiously because they can irritate your stomach. Avoid acetaminophen (Tylenol), as combining it with alcohol can damage your liver.

Give it time. Hangover symptoms usually improve within eight to 24 hours. During this period, your body works to eliminate alcohol toxins, restore hydration, repair tissues, and return normal body functions to baseline.

Although many people are only now becoming aware of it, adenovirus is being widely described as a “mystery illness spreading worldwide,” and that description feels accurate when you consider how many people are reporting symptoms at the moment. Adenovirus can cause fever, a runny nose, sore throat, and stomach discomfort, which makes it difficult to distinguish from a regular cold or the so-called “super flu” that is currently circulating. If you are feeling unwell, or concerned about catching an infection just before the holiday season, Dr Deborah Lee from Dr Fox Online Pharmacy explains how to tell adenovirus apart from the common cold and from the H3N2 flu strain.

What Is Adenovirus?

Adenovirus refers to a large group of viruses that can lead to infections ranging from mild to more severe. These viruses can affect the respiratory tract, eyes, digestive system, and urinary tract, often causing symptoms that look very similar to a cold or flu.

Adenoviruses are hardy, spread mainly through respiratory droplets, and can infect people throughout the year. Children and individuals with weaker immune systems may experience more serious illness, but most people recover with rest and fluids, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Adenovirus vs Cold: How Does Adenovirus Differ From Common Cold?

Adenovirus is one of several viruses that can trigger cold-like symptoms. It helps to think of a cold as a set of symptoms rather than a single illness, with adenovirus being just one possible cause. “Adenovirus is just one virus that can cause the common cold,” says Dr Lee. She adds that many other viruses can also be responsible, including respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), rhinoviruses, parainfluenza viruses, and coronaviruses.

Identifying the exact virus behind your cold symptoms is very difficult. “It is pretty much impossible for you or a doctor to know which virus is causing your cold symptoms,” Dr Lee explains.

Adenovirus vs Flu: How Does Adenovirus Differ From The Flu?

“The flu can be extremely unpleasant, whereas adenovirus is usually mild,” Dr Lee says when comparing the two. She explains that flu symptoms often appear suddenly, sometimes within hours, and are usually marked by a high fever and severe discomfort.

According to Dr Lee, flu symptoms can include:

• A high temperature between 38°C and 40°C
• Joint pain and muscle aches
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Blocked or stuffy nose
• Dry cough
• Extreme fatigue

In contrast, adenovirus symptoms, when they appear at all, tend to develop slowly over several days, Dr Lee notes.

Other important differences between adenovirus and flu include:

• Adenovirus infections can occur at any time of year, while flu is more common during winter
• Adenovirus frequently causes pink eye, whereas influenza may lead to red or irritated eyes but less commonly
• Adenovirus often causes digestive symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea, while flu can cause these but does so less often
• Adenovirus is generally less likely to cause serious complications than influenza

Adenovirus: How To Tell If You Have Adenovirus Or Cold Or Flu?

Although adenovirus and common cold symptoms often overlap, the intensity of “super flu” symptoms usually stands out. Even so, Dr Lee explains, “The only way to really know the cause of your symptoms is to have a swab taken by a medical practitioner. This may be from the nose, throat, eye, urine, or stool.”

In most cases, testing is unnecessary and unlikely to be offered. “Because the vast majority of these viral infections are mild and self-limiting, this is rarely done,” says Dr Lee. “Treatment for any cold is symptomatic only.” She adds that extra caution is needed for babies and young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.