The most common uses of melatonin as a dietary supplement is to support sleep and ease jet lag. Numerous studies have shown that melatonin can help synchronize the circadian rhythms to support the quantity and quality of sleep. While these applications are important, a fascinating connection between melatonin and cognition and mood is emerging in […]
The importance of sleep should never be underestimated. Numerous studies have linked lack of sleep to a number of health issues. Clinicians have numerous tools to help patients get the quantity and quality of sleep they require. One novel technique emerging in the scientific literature is the clinician’s ability to influence the gut microbiome in […]
Jaclyn Chasse, ND When it comes to conception, a lot of things (actually, an amazing number of things) have to go right. Of course, one huge factor for male fertility is the health of the sperm. Yet, the data on sperm health, and certainly the lab values used to distinguish between healthy and unhealthy sperm, […]
“Disturbances of gastric, intestinal and colonic motor and sensory functions affect a large portion of the population worldwide, impairing quality of life and causing considerable health-care costs.” That’s the opening statement of the 2018 Expert Consensus Document created by the International Working Group for Disorders of Gastrointestinal Motility and Function. The paper, which was published […]
Synergy—the bonus that is achieved when things work together harmoniously.” —Mark Twain Combining probiotics with prebiotics is the perfect example of the harmony that Twain refers to in this quote. The combination of these two substances means the impact is much greater than their separate effects. And that’s why this potent duo of probiotics and […]
When it comes to sun exposure, the key is moderation. A 2017 study from Spain showed that in about 30 minutes, most people get the vitamin D they need and if they remain in the sun unprotected for longer than that, there is risk of burning. Practitioners want patients to get the health benefits—and the […]
Meredith Murray ND Berberine is an isoquinoline alkaloid that is responsible for the bright yellow color of herbs such as Berberis vulgaris, Coptis chinensis, and Mahonia aquifolium. Many are familiar with the antimicrobial capabilities of berberine, however, it has many other useful properties. Berberine containing plants have been utilized historically for centuries, but in the […]
It can be difficult talking to patients about the amount of toxins in their home because the subject can overwhelm them. Instead of becoming empowered to reduce exposure, they become stymied and do nothing. This can be problematic given the amount of toxins that can be found in the home. A key factor in any […]
The prostate gland is actually located in a precarious position. It sits just below the bladder and in front of the rectum and then wraps around the upper part of the urethra. This means that if there is ever an issue with the prostate gland, it could negatively impact urination and sexual function. In addition, […]
Alan Gaby, M.D. Author: El-Chammas K, et al Reference: Disaccharidase deficiencies in children with chronic abdominal pain. JPEN J Parenter Enteral Nutr 2017;41:463-469. Design: Biochemical assessment of small-intestinal biopsy samples. Participants: Two hundred three children (mean age, 11.5 years) with chronic abdominal pain who presented to the gastroenterology clinic at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin Study […]
