Men & Gut Microbiome Health: 5 Things You Can Do NOW

Introduction

As the understanding of the microbiome grows, it’s becoming clear that the trillions of microscopic organisms that exist within our bodies have a significant impact on our physical and mental wellbeing. The gut microbiome, in particular, plays a crucial role in digestion and overall health. Men, in particular, are at a higher risk of inflammation-linked diseases due to imbalances in their gut microbiome. In this article, we will discuss five things that men can do to maintain a healthy gut microbiome.

Eat a Healthy Diet

One of the most effective ways to promote a healthy gut microbiome is by maintaining a balanced diet. By reducing the consumption of processed, high-sugar, and high-fat foods, you can create an environment that is conducive to a healthy gut. Aim to include plenty of plant-based foods, lean proteins, and fiber in your diet.

Avoid Unnecessary Medications

Medications such as antibiotics, NSAIDs, antacids, birth control, steroids, and hormone replacers can have a negative impact on the gut microbiome. Even six months after antibiotic use, the gut can still lack beneficial bacteria. It’s essential to be mindful of the medications you take and only use them when necessary.

Eat Probiotics and Prebiotics-rich Foods

Probiotics and prebiotics are beneficial for promoting a healthy gut microbiome. Prebiotics can be easily incorporated into your diet by consuming foods such as bananas, garlic, onions, and leafy greens. Probiotics-rich foods include yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha, non-pasteurized pickled vegetables, and kefir. Alternatively, you can also take probiotic supplements.

Reduce Stress and Improve Sleep

Managing stress and getting enough sleep are crucial for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. Psychological stressors can disrupt the microorganisms in the intestines, leading to an imbalance. Additionally, sleep deprivation can decrease the levels of beneficial gut bacteria. Take steps to reduce stress and prioritize sleep to support your gut health.

Take Natural Microbiome Supplements

Incorporating natural microbiome supplements into your routine can help refresh your gut with healthy bacteria and promote a balanced microbiome. These supplements support immune function and control inflammation, contributing to overall gut health. Nupeutics Health offers a range of comprehensive gut supplements, including Microbiome Master, Colon Master, and Master Cleanse Bundle, to support a healthy gut and balanced microbiome.

Conclusion

Your gut microbiome has a significant impact on both your physical and mental wellbeing. Maintaining a healthy gut is particularly important for men, as imbalances can lead to various health issues. By following these five steps, including eating a healthy diet, avoiding unnecessary medications, incorporating probiotics and prebiotics into your diet, reducing stress, and taking natural microbiome supplements, you can support a healthy gut microbiome. Prioritize your gut health today for overall well-being.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

The post Men & Gut Microbiome Health: 5 Things You Can Do NOW appeared first on Alternative Medicine Magazine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Complementary and Alternative Healthcare – Are they Evidence-based?

Although the evidence base for alternative and complementary medicine is still in flux, there are many reasons people choose them. You might have tried traditional treatments and found them ineffective. Or you may be looking for an alternative treatment because it has more benefits than conventional care. Alternative and complementary medicine may be an option. This is part of a holistic approach. Always check with your doctor to ensure that any complementary and/or alternative medicines you take are supported scientifically. If you aren’t sure if a particular treatment is safe or effective, consult your doctor. It can save you both time and money.

What is the distinction between holistic medicine and traditional medicines?

Traditional medicine only treats symptoms. Holistic medicine treats the entire person. Holistic medicine treats the whole person rather than just treating one aspect.

Traditional medicine treats only a few organs or system (such as the mind), while holistic medicine addresses all aspects of the human body. It also considers how lifestyle choices can affect overall wellness.

How safe are holistic medicines?

Holistic medicines are safe as they aren’t harmful drugs, but natural remedies that have been used for centuries by people who use them.

They have been shown in many cases to treat conditions such as arthritis and chronic pain, asthma.

Millions of people suffer from various illnesses use holistic medicines. They include homeopathy, acupuncture, chiropractic care, herbal treatments, massage therapy, yoga, meditation, biofeedback, hypnosis, nutrition, counseling, physical fitness, exercise, and other complementary therapies. These therapies address the whole person, not just the symptoms.

What’s the difference between holistic medicine versus alternative medicine?

Holistic medicine treats all aspects of the person: mind, body, soul, and spirit. It examines all aspects that affect a person’s overall health. These include the psychological, spiritual and environmental factors often overlooked in traditional medicine. Alternative medicine can be used to treat certain conditions like asthma, allergies, arthritis, or other medical issues.

What are the benefits to complementary and alternative medicine?

People who feel that they are not receiving enough support from allopathic medicine can use complementary and alternate medicine (CAM). These include herbal medicines, mind-body therapies such as acupuncture, massage therapy, homeopathy, chiropractic care, traditional Chinese medicine, biofeedback, hypnosis, and spiritual healing. Because they are not part of the standard medical treatment system, CAM practitioners will often recommend alternative therapies. Many CAM therapies can also be integrated with elements of mainstream medicine. Some forms of acupuncture use needles while others use acupressure and moxibustion with heat.

Some CAM therapies may be helpful for anxiety, pain relief, stress management or relaxation. They may improve your general well-being as well as reduce fatigue. Some CAM therapies address specific conditions like fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, and diabetes. Others CAM therapies could be simply enjoyable.

There is no singular definition of what constitutes “CAM”, but most definitions include at the very least one of these:

A holistic perspective that looks at the whole person, including body, mind as well as spirit and environment.
The belief in mind-body interaction and influence
An individual’s belief that illness is due to an imbalance in his/her environment.
A treatment that focuses on the whole person instead of just the symptoms
Combination Western science and Eastern philosophy
Mind, body, and spirit-integrated treatment methods
Use of natural products rather than synthetic chemicals
The healing touch
Mindfulness
Meditation
Acupuncture
Yoga
Herbal remedies
Homeopathy
Chiropractic care
Massage therapy
Hypnotherapy
Spiritual healing
Biofeedback
Nutritional counseling
Energy healing

Certain CAM therapies may not offer all the benefits. There are also risks. If used incorrectly, some therapies can cause severe harm or even death. Some have side effects, which should be balanced against their perceived benefits. Before you decide whether or not to use any CAMs, talk with your doctor about these matters.

What is an alternative name for medicine?

Alternative medicine is a term that covers any treatment approach that is not conventional. Although there are many forms of alternative medicine, most are based on the premise that health care should be rooted in natural substances and practices rather than chemical medicines.

Alternative medicine includes acupuncture.

Many alternative doctors claim that their therapies have improved patient satisfaction and reduced side effects. These claims can not be supported scientifically as the evidence supporting alternative medicine has been largely ignored by mainstream medical authorities.

Statistics

These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)

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What are the four types of complementary and alternate medicine?

There are four major types of CAM: mind-body medicine (natural products), manipulative therapies (energy healing), and manipulative therapies (natural products). Mind-body medicine includes yoga, meditation, Tai Chi, Reiki, acupuncture, massage therapy, chiropractic care, homeopathy, aromatherapy, reflexology, naturopathy, biofeedback, hypnosis, and herbalism. Natural products are herbs, vitamins, minerals and dietary supplements. Manipulative therapies can include physical manipulations such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, and osteopathic/chiropractic care. Energy healing involves techniques such as prayer and visualization.

CAM is an umbrella term for various health practices outside traditional Western medical models. The scientific evidence supporting these practices is varied, as are the types of drugs they use and what conditions they treat. Some CAM practitioners also perform diagnostic testing (e.g., blood tests) and prescribe medication. Others may do neither.

There are several subcategories to each category that go beyond the four primary categories. In mind-body medicine there are relaxation techniques. Natural products include nutritional supplements, botanical remedies, homeopathic remedies and essential oils. Manual, movement, traction and electrotherapies are all forms of manipulative therapy. They include cupping, stretching and myofascial release. Trigger point therapy, orthotics, neurostimulation, trigger point therapy, manuals, trigger points, trigger point therapy, orthopedics. There are also spiritual healing methods such as prayer, faith healing, and energy healing.

Many CAM treatments treat symptoms but do not address the root cause. Some chronic diseases can be helped by CAM. If used correctly, CAM may be a complement to conventional treatments.

There are many reasons that people use CAM.

To improve their overall wellbeing.
To manage a certain condition.
To reduce pain or discomfort.
To prevent illness.
To promote wellness.
To address a personal belief system.

People turn to CAM for greater control of their health than conventional medicine. It may have fewer side effects. Others prefer CAM to stay away from prescription medications. Others still prefer not take prescription drugs if they are possible. Others still seek out CAM, even though they’ve had bad experiences in conventional medicine.

People who use CAM often say that they want to know the basics of what they are doing before trying anything new. Many CAM users are concerned about the safety and effectiveness. Others rely upon word-of-mouth referrals from family and friends.

Although CAM can be viewed negatively by society in general, most users feel positive about it. People who use CAM are happier and healthier than those who don’t. This holds true regardless your age, gender or race.

A large majority of Americans practice some form or another of complementary and alternative medicines. 95% or more of adult Americans have used some type of CAM in their lives. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health – NCCIH, approximately 40,000,000 visits were made to CAM providers alone in 2010.

According to the NCCIH estimate, 10% of the U.S. Population uses chiropractors.

The American Medical Association has reaffirmed its support to integrative medicine in 2013, The American Medical Association recognized the need for physicians to “integrate scientifically supported complementary and alternate medicine into clinical practice…to satisfy patients’ needs and expectations.”5

In 2007, the Institute of Medicine published a landmark report called “Relaxing Constraints: Improving Access to Complementary and Alternative Healthcare.” The report concluded that “there is no credible evidence that any specific CAM intervention is effective for preventing, treating, or curing cancer.”

CAM is still gaining popularity despite this conclusion. In 2008, the number of CAM practitioners increased by 8 percent compared to 2007.

A recent survey found that almost half the respondents said they used CAM as part their primary healthcare plan.

CAM therapies include natural products as well mind-body practices, manipulative technologies, energy healing methods, exercise, diet supplements and other approaches.

Many CAM therapies are used primarily to relieve pain, but they also have many other benefits like relaxation, improved mood and better sleep.

Acupuncture, for example, can relieve chronic back pain, lower anxiety and depression, improve immune function and promote weight loss.

Many CAM treatments have roots in Ayurvedic, Chinese, and Traditional Chinese medicine.

For example, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) originated 5,000 years ago and has been practiced in China since ancient times.

TCM is an important component of modern health care.

TCM is used to treat a majority of Americans.

Yoga is another CAM therapy that is very popular. Around 5000 B.C., yoga was born in India. and is now embraced worldwide.

Yoga has gained popularity due to its physical, mental, as well as spiritual benefits.

Yoga can help ease stress, enhance flexibility and increase strength while improving cardiovascular fitness and reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Even though there are limited scientific studies, yoga appears to have positive effects upon sleep33. This may make it useful for people suffering from insomnia.

Other CAM therapies are also gaining acceptance in mainstream medicine, including meditation, homeopathy, and aromatherapy.

One of the most used types of CAM is herbal medicine.

Herbal medicines can include herbs, spices, plants, seeds and fruits as well as bark, leaves, roots, stems, and other medicinal substances.

They are often considered safer alternatives to pharmaceutical drugs and are widely used by consumers.

The U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health estimates that about 90 million Americans use some form of complementary/alternative medicine.

According to the American Cancer Society, 45% of adults diagnosed with cancer said they used alternative medicine during their illness.

The National Institutes of Health estimates 60% of cancer patients use CAM. Meanwhile, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports approximately 50% of all cancer survivors report using CAM.

According to a recent study 51% of cancer survivors used at least one type CAM.

Only 8% of these people discussed the use of this medication with their doctors.

This communication gap between conventional medical providers, CAM users and traditional doctors is a major problem in healthcare delivery.

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