When I was in high school, my doctor placed me on a daily antibiotic to control my acne. That prescription was renewed over and over again for years, and although it only mildly improved my skin, it did a number on my insides. I was tired all of the time, I couldn't seem to digest anything anymore, I had frequent sore throats, UTIs, anxiety, etc.
At 21, I was interning at a cutting edge physical therapy clinic, who had a dietician on staff for their clients. One day he offered to analyze my blood sample, and was able to determine that I had a shortage of good bacteria left in my body. He could even guess my ailments before I told him how I was feeling! Now I make sure to supplement my diet with yogurt, sauerkraut, kombucha, miso, and on occasion I take probiotics in pill form.
Recently, I've come across some some interesting articles about these "good bugs" and have found out they also have the potential to change mental states, are found in breast milk, and could possible be the secret to longevity...
First, Radiolab's episode on "Guts" explores the personality changes in mice after eating probiotics.
Second, an article about Madonna's secrete to longevity, and an interview with her former chief Mayumi Nishimura. Also, for those of you interested in macrobiotic cooking, I highly recommend Mayumi's book.
Third, find out "Just What's Inside Those Breasts". It will shock you!
Yes, probiotics are awesome! I didn't know about them until a few years ago and it's crazy how our docs never tell us to take them, especially when we're on antibiotics! I usually take one everyday but I'm always looking for a reason to eat more sauerkraut :)
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