Probiotics, what are they good for? Maybe everything!

It is beginning to feel like probiotics are going to be the next big fad supplement. And, if you aren't aware what probiotics do then it is likely you will become more aware this year and beyond. The interesting thing about probiotics is that it could be a very poor fad... it might be significantly greater than a fad and become the first line of defense for many of the chronic disease processes we currently face in this country and around the world.

The current issue of the journal Nutrition contains an editorial that highlights many of the possibilities regarding probiotic supplement use. It also highlights that there is very little known and much more study to be done to determine whether or not and, if so, to what extent probiotics are useful for helping people with chronic disease or at risk for chronic disease. You can find the editorial HERE.

Based on the limited definitive scientific evidence supporting the use of probiotic supplements to fight chronic disease it is unlikely you will see probiotics listed on the prescription pad from your general medical doctor or specialist. However, probiotic supplements do not require a prescription. They also do not require you to have a diagnosed chronic disease to be beneficial. Probiotic supplements are a great way to improve your overall health and possibly prevent a chronic disease process from beginning.

Even though the medical investigation of probiotic use is still in its infancy, there is enough positive evidence and little or no negative evidence concerning regular supplementation. And, if supplements don't interest you, then simply increase foods in your diet that are high in probiotics. Either way, increased probiotics in your diet is generally very low risk and high reward, which makes for a simple decision.

Remember, Chiropractic is the world's largest drugless profession and we're focused on helping inform people about natural alternatives and methods for achieving and maintaining optimal health!

Flu Season- What's Your Best Shot?

What We're Selling

With flu season quickly approaching there will be an increased promotion encouraging you to get your shot. The point of this post is not to make a decision for you, but to explain a few simple truths.

1. There is increasing awareness that the flu shot is not as effective as advertised (and yes, we mean ADVERTISED, because that is what happens). If you have questions about that fact, please check out this blog from the NYTimes (HERE) that makes the point better than I can.
2. If you are drawn to promotions that offer a discount to McDonalds or Wendys or free ice cream, please step back for one moment and ask yourself if the message is consistent with promoting health. HINT- it is not!
3. There is risk associated with ALL medications and secondary side effects that, while possibly rare, are still real. The risk profile for the flu vaccine is reported as relatively good, meaning your risk for side effects is low, but it is entirely possible that your absolute risk for complications from the flu itself are as good (low) or better (lower). 
4. You have options.

Your Best Shot- Healthy Habits

There are a few simple habits that you can develop to help you reduce your risk of contracting the flu and spreading it to other if you or a family member contracts it.

Be healthy and stay healthy. Maintaining an overall healthy lifestyle is a great way to reduce your risk. Diet, exercise, stress reduction and adequate hygiene are essential. If you aren't ready to overhaul your lifestyle to avoid the flu, then start with washing your hands more frequently. Hand washing has been shown to effectively reduce your risks- if you are interested read more HERE. Of course we encourage you to improve your health by staying well-adjusted. If you already have mild aches and pains that you have been ignoring, it is likely there are other underlying issues you are unaware of and your immune system is not fully prepared to fight off an onslaught from the flu.

Are your kids safe in the car?

Car-Seat Safety for Kids

In case you didn't already know, chiropractic care for kids is one of the our specialties at Performance Chiropractic. And, sorry grown-ups, but kids are definitely our favorite patients. Because we want all kids, including our own, to be safe in the car it seemed important to us to share some information with you after a recent public health study was published about kids safety while traveling by car.

What We Don't Know

The report suggests that too many people don't know the best ways to keep kids safe in the car. Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for kids age 1-17 so this is definitely important. The good news is that deaths of kids age 1-3 has dropped by 50% during the past 3 decades- did I say good, I mean great... that is GREAT NEWS! However, we still have work to do to keep our older kids safe in the car. According to the research review, "Forty-six percent of child fatalities occur among children younger than age 5 who are unrestrained in a vehicle." 

 

What To Do- TODAY!

The safest place to secure kids in a safety seat is rear-facing in the center seat (helps protect against side impact collisions). Your kids that have outgrown the safety-seat should use a booster seat until they are at least 4 feet 9 inches tall. 

 

12 Days of Wellness- Day 12

12 Days of Wellness- Day 11

12 Days of Wellness- Day 10

12 Days of Wellness- Day 9