10 compelling reasons to consume Flavanoids to combat oxidative stress 🙌

  1. Flavonoids are naturally occurring polyphenolic compounds in various deep-coloured fruits and vegetables. There are 6 different varieties of flavonoids, all of which have antioxidant properties and can help the human body to get rid of different toxins and stress. Therefore, including flavonoids in your routine diet can help to get rid of many chronic health conditions.
  2. Dietary Flavonoids are of 6 subtypes :
    Flavanols , Flavones, Flavan-3-ols, Flavanones, Isoflavones, Anthocyanins.
    Coloured fruits, vegetables, and plants are all rich in flavonoids. Naturally, they are found in apples,purple and red grapes, berries, peaches, oranges, cocoa, chocolate, green tea, black tea, chamomile tea, vegetables like broccoli, lettuce, tomatoes, scallions, red peppers and onions. Flavonoids are dark-coloured pigments so they act as natural pesticides and protect the plants from harmful UV rays, bacteria, viruses and harmful insects.

3. Main functions of flavonoids:
•Powerful antioxidants
•Fights inflammation
•Free radical damage and prevent oxidative stress.

•Anti-haemorrhagic and vasodilatory effects.
•Certain flavonoids, due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties prevent cancer cells from multiplying and decrease the risk of some cancers.

4.Research shows that oxidative stress can lead to cellular damage and disease development. So, oxidative stress can cause many disease conditions like cancers, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases like hypertension, atherosclerosis, chronic inflammatory diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. Flavonoids play an important role in reducing this oxidative stress and free radical damage, thereby preventing cellular damage.

Cocoa (Dark Chocolate)

5.Numerous studies have shown that cancers develop due to oxidative stress, genetic mutations,hypoxia and reduced apoptotic function. Apoptosis, in simple terms, is a normal cellular activity whereby the body tries to eliminate unwanted cells. Flavonoids play an integral part in promoting apoptotic cellular pathways and preventing cancer cells from proliferating and multiplying.

6.Research shows that flavonoids protect the different organs including the liver and brain from free radical damage. Studies show that flavonoids have protective effects of various liver injuries caused by drug and alcohol usage. Since, they are anti-inflammatory, and antitumor, they protect the hepatocytes from inflammation and fibrosis.

7.Flavonoids are a polyphenol group of compounds that can improve and reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Clinical studies in the past have shown that dietary intake of flavonoids can lower the risk of depression. However, further studies are still anticipated to make substantial proof.

8.Flavonoids are best when naturally consumed as all dark-coloured fruits, vegetables, and green tea contain abundant polyphenolic compounds. It should be included in the routine diet for overall
well-being. However, many flavonoid supplements are out in the market. The best supplements are Cucurmin (Tumeric), Green tea, grape seed extract, Resveratrol, Quercetin, hesperidin and Rutin.

9. Toxicity: Intake of natural flavonoids on a daily diet is usually enough. Sometimes, flavonoids supplements are clinically recommended. However, the risk of flavanoid toxicity exists, if someone takes a huge amount of highly potent supplements. It may affect anaemic and elderly patients as flavonoids may bind with non-heme iron. Flavanoid toxicity may cause liver failure, hemolytic anaemia and male reproductive issues. Recommended daily dose of consumption should be around 400-600mg/day.

10.A healthy routine diet rich in flavonoids will provide all the necessary support to the human body to maintain biological activity, provide anti-oxidant effects, reduce oxidative stress and prevent chronic diseases, maintain cardiovascular health and prevent infectious diseases. The key point is that the food readily available to us contains the most effective flavonoids and antioxidants that fortify our health and immune system, making expensive supplements unnecessary

Thanks for reading.

Peace and love 🙏

Silent Sunday 🍂

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Wordless Wednesday 🙌

Greens

Peace and love 🙏

10 facts about Nigella seeds 🙌


1.Throughout history, Nigella seeds, known scientifically as ‘Nigella Sativa’, have been utilized in a variety of culinary dishes in South Asian and Middle Eastern regions. These seeds grow from a flowering plant. The taste of these tiny black seeds is similar to that of onion and oregano, but they are slightly bitter. They are known for centuries for their immense medicinal and health benefits. They can be utilized in various forms, such as whole, oil, capsules, or powdered form.

2.Nutrition: Packed full of minerals and vitamins, including iron, calcium, zinc, copper, thiamine, phosphorus, folic acid, and many more, it’s a power meal. Useful fatty acids including linoleic, oleic, palmitic, and arachidonic acids make up the seed oil. Thymoquinone, its primary active ingredient, is extremely beneficial to health.

3.Antioxidants: Nigella seeds are full of antioxidants, which can fight free radicals and prevent oxidative stress. Studies show that nigella seeds contain several amino acids like carvacrol, thymoquinone, and 4-terpineol, which are powerful antioxidants. Hence, regular intake of nigella seeds can help protect against a wide variety of diseases, like heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and obesity.

4.Cholesterol: Many studies have shown that taking nigella seeds powder can help to lower LDL cholesterol and increase HDL cholesterol levels. This powerful effect can help the body prevent atherosclerotic diseases and ischaemic heart disease.

5.Brain: Nigella seeds have been shown to have the ability to slow down or prevent the progression of certain neurological inflammation in the brain, including Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, encephalomyelitis, depression, and Parkinson’s disease. Some research have also shown that nigella seeds can slow down the progression of dementia and age related memory loss.

6.Anti-cancer: Research has shown that the antioxidant thymoquinone has strong anti-cancer properties. Lung, cervical, pancreatic, prostate, skin, and colon cancers can all be prevented with the use of nigella seeds and their constituents. However, further data and investigation are needed to validate these effects.

7.Anti-bacterial: Studies have demonstrated the anti-bacterial properties of nigella seeds on germs that cause everything from ear infections to pneumonia. Their antibacterial and antibiotic qualities aid in the treatment of skin infections. They can aid in the management of chronic obstructive lung disorders and asthma because of their anti-inflammatory qualities. To manage such problems, people take the oil in capsules. However, further investigation is needed to fully understand these impacts.

8.Skin: Studies have shown that black seed oil can be used routinely to moisturize and skin cleansing. It can help to manage certain skin issues like psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, pigmentation and wound healing. It can fasten wound healing, repair tissue damage, reduce skin irritation, heal minor burns, scar tissues. It can also help to moisturize hair, reduce hair loss.


9.Dosage: Nigella seeds have been found to have many health and healing properties and is widely been used. It’s available in capsule, powder, tablets, creams, oil, soaps, shampoos and many more forms. It is safe in small doses , about 1-2.5 gm by mouth on daily basis. But, it is recommended to inform your Primary Physician before using it.

10.Side-effects:
*Bleeding disorder: It slows blood clotting, so it is contraindicated in people with bleeding disorders. *

*Since nigella seeds may interfere with metabolism, it is important to inform the treating physician while using them.

*It can slow down uterine contraction so nigella seeds supplementation should not be used during pregnancy.
*Usually it protects the kidneys but excess consumption like 2000-2500mg daily may affect kidney health.
*The best way to minimize the potential side effects is by incorporating nigella seeds paste or oil in very small quantity in meals to enjoy the immense health benefits, these seeds provide.

Thanks for reading.

Peace and love 🙏

10 facts to understand why glutathione is necessary 🙌

Hello everyone ✋

1.Glutathione is a naturally found antioxidant in our body. It is important to know about this powerful antioxidant because it has a host of many benefits. Its primary function is to fight free radical that damages body cells. It’s vital for the body because it helps to protect from many diseases like autoimmune diseases, liver damage, heart diseases, respiratory diseases and neurological disorders. As we grow older, the glutathione level slowly declines and the body marches towards poor health.


2.It is essential to maintain the level of glutathione in the body. If the level drops, certain symptoms may appear, such as anemia, fatigue, increased frequency of infections, low immunity status, sleep problems, and brain fog. To boost glutathione levels, it is recommended to consume sulfur-rich foods such as cruciferous vegetables, avocados, broccoli, spinach, garlic, and unprocessed meat. Several studies have indicated that consuming vitamin C can increase glutathione levels in the body. Therefore, it is important to consume citrus fruits, bell peppers, kiwis, and papayas regularly. Additionally, it is recommended to consume foods rich in selenium such as chicken, fish, eggs, Brazil nuts, and brown rice to maintain glutathione levels in the body.

Aging

3.Glutathione is a compound that is mainly composed of three amino acids: glutamine, glycine, and cysteine. Our body naturally produces this compound, but its level decreases with age. In addition, chronic diseases, poor diet, stress, anxiety, and frequent infections can also contribute to the reduction of glutathione levels. Low levels of glutathione are commonly found in individuals suffering from chronic diseases such as heart and liver diseases, sepsis, trauma, HIV/AIDS, and cancers. The role of glutathione in the body is crucial because it helps to prevent free radical damage, repair cells, and facilitate protein synthesis. Moreover, glutathione can bind with toxic metals like arsenic, silver, lead, chromium, mercury, and copper, and help to reduce their toxicity.


4.Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that offers several health benefits. It can reduce oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent the development of various diseases such as diabetes, cancer, autoimmune disorders, and rheumatoid arthritis. Glutathione can also help to reduce cell death and improve blood levels of protein, bilirubin, and enzymes in fatty liver diseases like alcoholic and non-alcoholic types. Additionally, it plays a significant role in maintaining mitochondrial DNA, which is necessary for building proteins and cells. Several studies have shown that glutathione can improve blood circulation and prevent plaque buildup, thereby improving peripheral arterial disease. It may also help to improve symptoms of tremors and rigidity in Parkinson’s disease, respiratory diseases, uncontrolled diabetes, autism in children, and psoriasis.

Glowing skin
Gut health

5.Various studies have demonstrated that glutathione has a significant role in preventing skin problems such as acne, eczema, wrinkles, and aging. It also helps in maintaining healthy and glowing skin. When the balance between good and bad microbiome in the gut is harmonized, the overall health of the body is improved, and the skin appears healthy and radiant. However, if the balance is disrupted, it leads to skin problems and other health issues, including bowel disturbances. Glutathione is instrumental in detoxifying the body, repairing cell damage, and maintaining a balanced gut health. Therefore, by improving the level of glutathione in the body, it is possible to resolve skin problems and many gut issues.

Supplements


6.Low levels of glutathione can lead to a variety of health issues. While natural food sources are the best way to improve glutathione production in the body, supplements like vitamin C and E, curcumin, N-acetylcysteine, and selenium can also help. However, injectable supplements can be toxic and oral supplements are not very effective as they break down in the stomach. In cases of low immunity, glutathione is sometimes medically prescribed. In such cases, oral or injectable supplements may be recommended under medical supervision.

Alcohol

7.Certain lifestyle changes are essential to improve the glutathione levels in the body. Avoiding smoking, alcohol, too much dairy, caffeine and processed food is required to boost the levels in the body. Having a balanced diet, with good quality natural food sources, exercise and good sleep can improve the glutathione production in the body.


8.Glutathione levels are not typically measured in the body like essential nutrients, so research is still insufficient to understand the effects of low levels and supplement requirements. Studies do show that low levels can result from poor diet, stress, environmental toxins, and increasing age. Low levels of glutathione are associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes, liver diseases, and Parkinson’s disease. However, supplementing with glutathione does not decrease the risk, so more studies are required to determine the optimal intake and its effects.

Milk thistle


9.Supplements of glutathione that are commercially available include Selenium, Vitamin C and E, milk thistle, and N-acetylcysteine. The dose of glutathione depends upon an individual’s age, sex, past medical history, and drug allergies. Studies have shown that glutathione is given at a range of 250 to 1000 mg/day in either injectable or inhalant forms. However, it is strictly advised to seek medical guidance before taking glutathione supplements since it can cause possible side effects. Some side effects like skin rashes, cramping, bloating can appear and inhalant glutathione might cause breathing problems too.

10.In brief, glutathione is a vital antioxidant that is naturally produced in the body and offers numerous benefits. A deficiency of glutathione can lead to the development of various chronic diseases, including cancer. As we age, the level of glutathione in our bodies naturally decreases. Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of dietary sources that can help boost the natural production of glutathione in the body. If advised by a medical professional, supplements can also be taken to improve the levels of glutathione in the body.

Thanks for reading.

Peace and love 🙏

10 facts to know about chia seeds 🙌

1.Originally from Guatemala and Mexico, Chia seeds also called Salba seeds are grown from a flowering plant. Its known widely for its medicinal benefits. These seeds are rich sources of antioxidants and polyphenols like quercetin, chlorogenic, kaempferol and caffeic acid. They are plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids, mostly alpha-linoleic acid (ALA) and nutrients rich in calcium, magnesium, iron and phosphorus that support the immune system. Because of its immense health benefits, it has been commercially grown across the globe to meet the demands.


2.Antioxidant-rich chia seeds can remove oxidative stress by destroying the free radicals in the body. Having it regularly can reduce the risk of developing heart disease, lower the risk of diabetes by improving blood sugar, reduce inflammatory diseases and lower blood pressure. Due to its high calcium content, it helps to maintain bone health, and nerve and muscle function.


3.Though it is a rich source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, but eating only chia seeds may not be enough. Other sources of Omega-3 fatty acids like flax seeds, hemp seeds, walnuts etc need to be taken to complete the body’s requirement to prevent developing chronic diseases. Research has shown that having regular Omega-3 fatty acids can maintain heart health, lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of inflammation like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and eczema.


4.Chia seeds are used mainly for healthy weight management. Since the seeds are rich in fibres, they absorb plenty of water, and expand in the stomach. They give a sensation of fullness in the stomach making you eat less. Therefore, it is good for weight management and reduces bloating and belly fat. The rich fibres in the seeds are also good for gut health by providing food for the gut microbiome.


5.Medications: People who have already known cases of diabetes and hypertension and have been using medication for the lowering of blood pressure and blood sugar can use chia seeds but with precautions. Having a teaspoon of the seeds with the physician’s supervision can cause no harm. However, having in big amount can further lower the blood pressure and blood sugar leading to complications.


6.In spite of it’s great health benefits, chia seeds can sometimes cause some issues. Eating in big quantities can further complicate certain conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, in some cases, they can cause diarrhoea, constipation and bloating. Due to it’s fibre content, the seeds are difficult to digest when having in large quantities. Like other seeds, it can be allergic to some individuals. So, having 1-2 teaspoonfuls is recommended normally rather than having a big quantity to prevent complications.


7.Chia seeds are tiny seeds which break easily. Many people use them in either whole form or in powdered form. Sprinkling a teaspoon full of chia seeds in your breakfast bowl of oatmeal, smoothies, and soups are common. Soaking them overnight and using them as chia sprouts is very beneficial. Chia pudding is commonly used as well by mixing them with milk or juice. Ideally, chia seeds are soaked in liquid or sprinkled over meal so that the seeds expand before eating is useful rather than having them directly.


8.The consumption of a high-fibre diet which is a healthy requirement of the body can cause dehydration due to the pulling of water from the tissues. So, chia seeds can be added to your drinking water which can help you remain hydrated throughout the day and also along with meals, this way, the nutrient-dense of the seeds can also be received.


9.Another cosmetic benefit of chia seeds that needed to be mention is that these seeds are good for skin maintainence, reducing skin pigmentation and dark spots. Due to the presence of omega-3-fatty acids, polyphenols and other nutrients, it can prevent or lessen the UV damage to skin. They are good for hair as well and can be used as hair mask.

10.Like all other superfoods, chia seeds should be consumed daily, not more than 25-30 grams per day, or 1-2 teaspoonful daily. They are cooling agents as they retain water in the body and keep you hydrated. Ideally, they should be consumed after soaking them overnight in water to get the maximum benefits.

Thanks for reading.

Peace and love 🙏

10 facts to know why Nature Bath is essential and worth knowing 🙌

1. Shinrin Yoku is a Japanese idea which means relaxing in nature or forest. So, the concept of Nature bath originated from this idea. The concept simply means spending time in nature or strolling and breathing the clean air in the woods. It’s not about running, jogging or hiking in the woods to lose weight or increase the heart rate. It is a calming stroll or a simple walk in nature, being aware of the surroundings by the five senses. It has been approved by many studies to have tremendous benefits for mental and brain health as well as positive impact on the immune system.

2. For centuries, people were roaming around in forests, and woods for food, livestock, hunting and other purposes. So, this was not a new thing in the human race. But, in today’s time of urbanization stressful life, competition, and spending hours on social media, people hardly have time for a simple walk in the forest or a park nearby. Recent studies by different researchers like Japanese Medical doctor Qing Li have urged the significance and enormous health benefits gained by this simple outdoor activity. Li pointed out that a simple touch, look, listening and smell in the woods can greatly impact the overall wellbeing.


3.Studies show that trees release phytoncides, a chemical which they liberate to protect them in nature from insects, has several health benefits. While strolling in the woods, when we inhale this compound, our body releases more natural killer cells, a type of white blood cells which help in fighting viral bourne diseases and even cancers. It has also anti-bacterial and anti-fungal qualities and supports the immune system.


4.Several studies have shown that strolling among trees helps to breathe an extra supply of oxygen and take away the daily stress stimuli by lowering the cortisol level. It also means the sympathetic nervous system can be slowly taken over by the parasympathetic nervous system and concentrate on relaxation and healing. The blood pressure, blood sugar and heart rate, all of them, coming back to the normal level.

5. As already mentioned, phytoncides released by plants and trees have a regulatory effect on the human moods too. Studies shows that some types of phytoncides like anti depressant beta-pinene has direct effect on mood and help in reducing anxiety, anger and depression. It has anti inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Phytoncides helps the mind with clarity, focus and calming effect which makes it better eqipped to handle stress.


6.Other phytoncides named alpha-pinene released from trees and plants have many health benefits. Due to its calming, sedative properties, it has a direct effect on sleep and overall mental health. It improves sleep, releases stress, and reduces body pain, apart from anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties which strengthen immunity.


7.According to Dr Qing Li’s book “Forest Bathing”, the healing power lies in connecting the five senses to nature. It is simply a slow walk in nature, leaving behind your phone and other gadgets, and being mindful of the surrounding. Breathing fresh air with an extra supply of oxygen, listening to the chirping of birds, the breeze, the touch of leaves, soil, the smell of the woods, and lying on the ground, all of these simple activities are stress busters.These activities releases the happy hormones and lowers cortisol. The natural inhaling of phytoncides are immunity boosters and powerful healers. A small amount of time spent can have a great impact on health and well-being.

8.You don’t need a forest or woods. Wherever there are trees, anywhere, everywhere, maybe in hot, cold or snowy weather, or maybe in a park or garden, you can do forest bathing.
In case, it is not possible, make some time to spend on your balcony among the planted pots.
In some way or another, nature does have a beneficial impact on health as a stress buster. Other therapeutic activities which can be done in an open environment with trees are meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, painting, pottery and so on.

9.Forest bathing is very helpful in the recovery phase of people affected with various illnesses including cancers. Trees releasing phytoncides aid in immune cell response and help in increasing the responses of anti-cancer proteins like granulysin, perforin and granzymes. It helps in increasing the count of naturally killer cells which helps to fight the tumour cells.
Since it lowers the cortisol, it slows down the heart rate and lowers the blood pressure. It elevates the mood and has a calming effect on mental health.

10.In an urban scenario, people might think that forest bathing is just not possible in a busy life. But,taking a little time off from noisy, stressful environment, without the cellphone and other gadgets for a short stroll in a nearby park or garden can definitely reduce the stress level and have a calming effect on the mood. Any such opportunity in your busy routine life can make a big difference on the health and wellbeing.

Thanks for reading.

Peace and love 🙏

10 facts to know why cold pressed oil is a healthier option 🙌

Hi everyone !

  1. Any edible oil is cold-pressed oil when it is produced by precipitation, by pressing the seeds at room temperature without using heat for extraction. Unlike refined oil, the process of extraction of cold-pressed oil and filtration is done without using any harmful chemicals and heat. It is produced by the natural method of extraction from seeds by pressing at room temperature so found to be more natural and nutrient-dense.
  2. How the cold-pressed oil is different from other oils? Refined oil extraction involves machinery with different steps of refining, by using chemicals, heat and sometimes bleaching agents so the oil has a high smoking point. Hot-pressed oil involves applying heat during extraction but no chemicals. Vegetable oils are usually hot-pressed oil. Virgin oil involves the extraction of oil from fresh fruits or seeds like virgin olive oil or virgin coconut oil. In some cases, it may differ from cold- pressed oil as the oil is extracted from the fruits or seeds from drying them earlier so the oil retains its nutrients and antioxidants.

3.From a health point of view, out of all cooking oils, cold-pressed oil and virgin oil have the maximum benefits. Both the oil extraction and filtration processes have been made to preserve the maximum nutrients, antioxidants and healthy fats. Even after extraction, these oils are rich in healthy fats like omega 3 and 6, vitamins, and minerals like zinc, magnesium and potassium. These nutrients are very essential for health as anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties and are good for the cardiovascular system.

4.The cold-pressed oil of any variety, restores the natural flavour and physical characteristics of the oil like colour, taste and smell. Apart from having immense health benefits, the oil is light and good for cooking depending on the variety of oil used as per taste buds. Extra virgin olive oil is considered the healthiest as it is extracted from the freshest olives by cold pressed method.

5.Depending on the cooking culture and taste buds, there are a wide variety of cold pressed oil types in the Supermarket like olive oil, soybean, canola, cottonseed, palm, peanut, coconut, sesame, mustard, sunflower and avocado oil. Out of them all, olive oil and coconut oil are among the healthiest varieties as a cooking medium. Extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil and walnut oil varieties have been used as dressing for salads.

6.The reason of the disadvantage of cold-pressed oil is due to its low yielding while extraction and short shelf life of 3-4 months. To increase the volume of the cold-pressed oil, the raw material has to be crushed several times. The method of extraction is usually manual or simple mechanical tool of crushings used at room temperature. Then, the oil is filtered to remove precipitates or any toxins. Due to low production, the cost is usually high.

7.Nowadays, cold-pressed oil is preferred for its environmentally friendly method of extraction. Moreover, the oil is nutrient-rich with tremendous health benefit properties of lowering the risk of heart disease by reducing bad cholesterol, anti-cancer properties and anti-ageing benefits. These oils are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids which are necessary for brain function and heart health.

8.Another important benefit of cold-pressed oil is that it can aid in the weight loss process. Since it has a high metabolic rate it can facilitate in burning of fat. It is also easier to digest due to its low cholesterol content. But, using excess oil while cooking may overshadow these benefits.

9.Some variety of cold-pressed oil has some special benefits in particular. Like groundnut oil, olive oil improves insulin sensitivity and helps in better control of blood sugar. Lignan is a powerful antioxidant found in cold-pressed sesame oil which helps in lipid peroxidation and thereby lowers blood pressure. There is strong evidence that shows that consumption of olive oil lowers the risk of cancers like breast and GI tracts cancers.

10.It is very essential to switch to a healthy type of cooking medium like cold pressed oil and use them in moderate quantities for cooking daily to lower the health risk. Nutrient-dense, high-calorie- rich oil helps make you feel fuller after eating and reduce your hunger. Together with everyday exercise and considerable hours of fasting between meals can help to maintain overall well-being.

Thanks for reading.

Peace and love 🙏

10 facts to know about your gut flora 🙌

Hello everyone 🤗

  1. The gut flora is mainly composed of trillions of gut microbiomes which are mainly bacteria, fungi, viruses and archaea. This is unique to every individual and develops in his/her lifetime, as distinctive as the fingerprint. Initially, the intestinal tract of a newborn at birth is sterile. The newborn’s gut is first colonised by the mother’s bacteria during the process of vaginal delivery. Environmental bacteria also start colonising in the baby’s gut as soon as it is exposed after birth. Then, slowly the child’s gut starts developing into a unique microbiome flora depending upon the different food intake and environmental exposures with time.
  2. The gut starts having both good and bad bacteria with different kinds of food and environmental exposures. Good bacteria mainly help in the digestion and absorption of the food and nutrients. They strengthen the immune system and produce several beneficial amino acids and vitamins. The more, the good bacteria population, the healthier the person and the stronger the immunity, in his lifetime. They are simply the protectors of our health and well-being.

3. There are bad bacteria also in our intestinal gut flora. As long as they are low in level, they remain harmless. But then, when we take antibiotics or develop unhealthy food choices and habits, smoking, drinking alcohol and so on, the good bacterial flora is at risk and starts eliminating. In such cases, bad bacterial flora starts flourishing causing havoc in the immune system leading to various diseased states. Chronic inflammation starts progressing leading to autoimmune diseases, cancers, and inflammatory bowel diseases.

4. As research has progressed, studies have found links between bacterial species in the gut to certain types of diseases. Metabolic diseases like obesity and type 2 diabetes are found to be linked with the presence of certain bacterial species of Lactobacillus.
New studies have shown strong evidence of gut kidney connection. Certain species of bacteria in the gut microbiome result in uremic toxins while digesting protein which may be a factor in developing chronic kidney diseases. Several studies have shown a link of depression to the gut microbiome. Various bacterial species like Eggerthella and Sellimonas are found at high levels in individuals with depressive symptoms.

5.The gut-brain connection plays an important role in a person’s well-being. That is why the gut is known as the “second brain”. The gut nervous system can be called the Enteric Nervous System, which has around 100 million nerve cells from the oesophagus to the anal opening. The main functions of this system are digestion, absorption of nutrients, and release of enzymes for food breakdown. Studies show that irritation in the GI tract may trigger the central nervous system to change moods. The gut microbiome also produces hormones like serotonin, and norepinephrine which are important for mood changes. Therefore, there is a strong connection between depression and anxiety in people who deal with gut issues like irritable bowel diseases, stomach upset, pain, and constipation.

6.The signs of a healthy gut are the regular pooping habit, which may be 2-3 times a day to 3-4 times a week, the range can vary with every individual. There is no pain, no bloating after eating, and no discomfort during bowel movement. Symptoms like bloating, diarrhoea, stomach pain, feeling of fullness after eating or malnutrition can be the signs of an unhealthy gut or tigger for slowly increase in bad bacteria. In such cases, clinical attention is required to investigate and diagnose any bowel issues.

Sugar rich foods

7.The common triggers which may lead to an unhealthy gut can be too much stress, constant fatigue, sleep disturbances, ultra-processed food, a sugar-rich diet, and too little intake of fluids. The frequent use of antibiotics has a link to an unhealthy gut. Therefore, these lifestyle habits need to be avoided as practically as possible. Skin conditions like psoriasis do have a link to an unhealthy gut too.

Natural foods

8. The common ways that we can take care of our gut health and improve the good bacteria count are by having a fibre-rich diet with plenty of vegetables and fresh fruits. A diet rich in whole grains, legumes, pulses, nuts and sea fishes. Lowering the sugar-rich foods, limiting the everyday stress, and remaining hydrated as possible. Intermittent fasting is beneficial too for gut health and flora.

Fermented foods

9. Another important food for our gut health is fermented food as they are rich in probiotics. Plain yogurt, buttermilk, kimchi, sauerkraut and kombucha to name in the list. There can be other varieties of fermented food too which can be local or region-specific around the globe. Any food which is fermented or sprouting can be excellent for gut health as it increases the lactobacilli and keeps the growth of bad bacteria checked.

Walking in nature
Gratitude journal

10. So, the simple tips to take care of gut health are to have more and more fibres and probiotics daily, curtail sugar as much as possible, stay hydrated, keep out of stress, meditate to calming mind like walking in nature or listening to music, exercising, mild to moderate ways, practising gratitude journal every day increases happy hormones and trying to maintain a sleep routine. Ultimately, the best way to live a longer and healthier life is to live in harmony with nature.

Thanks for reading.

Peace and love 🙏

‘New Year’ wishes 🙌

First of all, I am incredibly appreciative that I get to celebrate another new year with the Supreme and all of my beautiful bloggers.

Let us hope that this new year, with its 365 fresh days, will bring us growth, positivity, action, hope, and the drive to achieve our objectives. Not to mention to make time for our loved ones and family.

Both failure and success are fleeting. The capacity to continue going forward is most important.

I’m wishing everyone a wonderful and prosperous 2024 New Year !

Thanks for reading.

Peace and love 🙏