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Move over, Dr. Google; with a new health trend every other week, Dr. TikTok is here to take your spot. The last few weeks have been all about Budget Ozempic, a new weight loss trend on TikTok. But registered nutritionists and other healthcare experts are frowning down upon this latest fad. Here’s everything you need to know about Budget Ozempic and why you probably should not consider this path to weight loss.
"Budget Ozempic" is a term that has been coined by the TikTok community, but it's fundamentally different from the medication "Ozempic," used to treat type 2 diabetes.
In essence, "Budget Ozempic" refers to the compound known as polyethylene glycol 3350 or PEG 3350 for short.
Now, PEG 3350 might sound unfamiliar, but its presence is more common than one might realize.
Chemically, this compound shares similarities with other polymers found in various everyday products - from cosmetics and soaps to paints and even missile fuel components.
PEG 3350 is a key component in laxative and stool-softening products.
Consumers might recognize it in brands such as DulcoSoft and Movicol, often referred to as macrogols.
Apart from alleviating constipation, it's also administered to patients to prepare their bowels prior to a colonoscopy.
The buzz about "Budget Ozempic" on TikTok has made many curious about how it helps with weight loss. Here's a simple breakdown.
PEG 3350 in "Budget Ozempic" is a type of laxative that pulls water into the intestines to help soften stools.
When you drink something with PEG 3350, the body doesn’t absorb this ingredient.
Instead, PEG 3350 gathers water from your body as it moves through the intestines, making your stools watery.
How does this affect weight?
Since PEG 3350 takes more water out of your body than the amount you drink, it causes a temporary drop in weight.
But it's just making you lose water, not actual body fat.
So, when you drink water next, the body quickly tries to replace what it lost, and you might gain back the weight.
For noticeable weight loss, you’d need to consume a lot of PEG 3350; even then, you’re likely to shed only a couple of pounds.
This mechanism is different from how Ozempic works to manage diabetes.
It acts like some natural hormones in our body that help manage blood sugar and weight.
These hormones slow down how fast the stomach empties, making us feel full for longer and eat less.
This can lead to real and lasting weight loss, unlike the temporary effects of PEG 3350.
Budget Ozempic has raised eyebrows in the health community.
Many experts worry about its potential dangers, especially when used for weight loss.
Anna Mapson, a registered nutritionist, describes the trend as “really worrying.”
She emphasizes that not only are laxatives ineffective for weight loss, but they can also be quite dangerous.
She explains, “When waste products reach our large intestine, our body tries to recycle as many nutrients as possible before elimination.
By skipping this vital process with laxatives, you risk dehydration and losing too many essential minerals.
This can result in dizziness, lethargy, and even kidney disruption. Worse, continuous misuse might damage your gut and liver.”*
Tony Cottenden, a Nutritionist, also expresses his reservations: “When you speed up the movement of food through our system, our body has less time to absorb nutrients, which can lead to deficiencies affecting our overall health.
The risks aren't limited to the gut. Laxative misuse can harm both the heart and the mind. Low potassium and magnesium can lead to heart irregularities and even heart failure.
Psychologically, the temporary weight loss from laxatives can create dependence, escalating the physical risks and possibly leading to eating disorders and other mental health issues.”*
*as taken from Healthline
In the world of weight loss, going back to basics might just be the key. Here are some effective, safe, and nutritionally sound strategies to consider:
The TikTok trend "Budget Ozempic" is gaining traction for weight loss, but it's crucial to understand its implications. Predominantly, it relies on PEG 3350, a compound in laxatives, and not the diabetes medication "Ozempic." Though it might show temporary weight reduction by dehydrating the body, experts warn of numerous health risks. These include dehydration, potential heart issues, and a high salt concentration in the blood. Registered nutritionists emphasize that genuine weight loss comes from healthier habits: focusing on whole foods, boosting fiber intake, and incorporating lean proteins. As trends come and go, prioritizing long-term health over fleeting fads remains the wisest choice.
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/budget-ozempic-weight-loss-trend-raises-safety-concerns/
https://www.healthline.com/health-news/budget-ozempic-weight-loss-trend-unsafe
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325892
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a603032.html
https://www.verywellhealth.com/ozempic-semaglutide-uses-efficacy-side-effects-7489260
Amino acids are often celebrated as the essential building blocks of proteins, vital for our health and body functions. However, homocysteine stands as an exception to this general rule. If your homocysteine levels are riding high, you might be opening the door to some not-so-friendly guests like heart disease, stroke, and even chronic Alzheimer's disease. While various factors contribute to its increase, our diet remains at the forefront of these influencers. Learning what foods cause high homocysteine levels can help you plan your diet to support your health.
Did You Know? MTHFR is a key gene influencing your homocysteine levels. Certain changes in it can result in homocysteine buildup, increasing your risk for various serious health conditions. Your ancestry test DNA data contains more than 700,000 markers, which can be used to learn about your MTHFR gene and 1000+ other things about your health. Learn more.
Homocysteine is an amino acid, a chemical component in the bloodstream that helps in protein synthesis.
It is formed when the body breaks down another amino acid called methionine.
While methionine is beneficial for the body, high levels of homocysteine come with various health risks.
Vitamins such as B12, B6, and B9 (folate) may influence homocysteine levels in the blood because they help metabolize homocysteine into other essential chemicals needed by the body.
These vitamin deficiencies can result in high homocysteine levels and are linked with an increased risk for two significant health concerns:
A normal level of homocysteine in the blood is less than 15 mcmol/L (micromoles per liter).
When homocysteine levels exceed the normal limit:
High homocysteine levels can damage blood vessels by harming the lining of arteries, known as the endothelium.
This damage can make arteries more vulnerable to atherosclerosis, where plaque builds up on the artery walls.
Plaque is like a sticky substance that can narrow the arteries, reducing blood flow to essential organs like the heart and brain.
High homocysteine levels can also make the blood more likely to form clots.
These clots, also known as thrombus, can block blood vessels in the brain, heart, or lungs, leading to serious health issues as they travel through the bloodstream.
High homocysteine levels can have several negative effects on the body, including:
Consuming certain foods can raise homocysteine levels due to excess protein or methionine or by interfering with the absorption or metabolism of folate, vitamin B12, or vitamin B6. These foods include:
The MTHFR gene produces an enzyme known as methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR). This enzyme converts folate into its active form, 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF).
5-MTHF is essential for the production of methionine, which is a building block of proteins.
5-MTHF is used to convert homocysteine back into methionine, which helps to keep homocysteine levels in check.
People with a mutation in the MTHFR gene may have reduced MTHFR activity (may not process enough folate), which can lead to high homocysteine levels.
There are two main types of MTHFR gene mutations: C677T and A1298C. The C677T mutation is more common than the A1298C mutation.
People with one copy of the C677T mutation have a slightly increased risk of high homocysteine levels.
People with two copies of the C677T mutation have a higher risk of high homocysteine levels.
The A1298C mutation is less common than the C677T mutation but has a greater impact on MTHFR activity.
People with one copy of the A1298C mutation have a moderate risk of high homocysteine levels.
If you have two copies of the A1298C mutation, it is unlikely to cause high homocysteine levels. Other factors, such as vitamin deficiency, aging, kidney disease, or certain medications, may be responsible.
In addition to MTHFR gene mutations, several other things can contribute to high homocysteine levels, including:
According to a study published in PubMed, vitamin C may reduce homocysteine levels and help prevent vascular damage.
The study discovered that people with higher vitamin C levels tended to have lower homocysteine levels.
Interestingly, the impact of vitamin C on homocysteine was more noticeable in those with lower vitamin C levels. This suggests that vitamin C could benefit people with high homocysteine levels.
It is important to note that the study was observational, so it cannot prove that vitamin C causes homocysteine levels to lower.
More research is needed to confirm this study's findings and determine the optimal dose of vitamin C for lowering homocysteine levels.
You can naturally lower your homocysteine levels by changing your diet and lifestyle. Here are some tips to follow:
It's advisable to consult your doctor before making significant dietary changes or taking supplements. They'll guide you on the best approach.
Taking folate supplements can be beneficial if you have an MTHFR gene mutation or elevated homocysteine levels.
But not every manufactured folate supplement will work for you. Synthetic folic acid may disrupt your natural folate metabolism and lead to adverse effects.
Instead, search for organic folate supplements that include methylfolate or 5-MTHF, the type your body can use or absorb easily.
As a precaution, consult with your physician before taking supplements.
High homocysteine levels can lead to health problems like heart disease, stroke, and Alzheimer's.
When methionine breaks down, it produces the amino acid homocysteine. Vitamins B12, B6, and B9 (folate) can help regulate its levels.
Elevated homocysteine levels can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of atherosclerosis and blood clotting.
It can also impact brain function, bone health, and mood.
Foods that can raise homocysteine levels include red meat, dairy products, processed foods, and alcohol.
MTHFR gene mutations can also contribute to high homocysteine levels, as this gene affects folate metabolism.
Other factors like kidney disease, hypothyroidism, certain medications, smoking, and heavy drinking can also raise homocysteine levels.
Vitamin C may help lower homocysteine levels, especially in those with lower vitamin C levels. However, more research is needed to confirm this effect.
To naturally lower homocysteine levels, one can consume folate-rich foods, vitamin B12-rich foods, and vitamin B6-rich foods.
Regular exercise and consult a doctor before making dietary changes or taking supplements are advisable.
The MTHFR and Methylation Report analyzes important variants in this gene known to lower the MTHFR enzyme levels.
If you have done an ancestry genetic test with companies like 23andMe, AncestryDNA, MyHeritage, etc., you can learn this information in 3 steps.
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https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/01.CIR.0000165142.37711.E7
https://www.healthline.com/health/homocysteine-levels
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/homocysteine-levels
https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/gene/mthfr/
https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/mthfr-mutation-test/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12413206/
Navigating the complex world of fertility treatments can be daunting, and letrozole is a key player in this journey for many. As with many medications, certain foods can interact with letrozole, potentially affecting its efficacy. Knowing what to consume and what to sidestep is crucial. In this article, we shed light on foods to avoid while taking letrozole for fertility.
Are you aware that your genetic makeup contains valuable insights into your health and well-being? Utilizing this knowledge can contribute to disease prevention, enhance dietary choices, promote graceful aging, and support the maintenance of a healthy body weight. Learn more.
Letrozole is a drug that falls under the category of nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitors.
Aromatase is involved in converting a hormone called androgen to estrogen.
It is usually prescribed to adult females who have gone through menopause.
Letrozole is used to treat hormone-dependent breast cancers.
It is also used to treat fertility issues.
Letrozole is a prescription drug and is available in the form of tablets.
The brand name of Letrozole is Femara.
Letrozole treats certain disorders impacted by excess estrogen levels in the body.
Estrogen-receptor-positive breast cancer can be treated with letrozole.
It will help to slow the growth and metastasis of such breast cancers.
Letrozole might also be prescribed to high-risk post-menopausal women to prevent breast cancer.
Letrozole can be used as a fertility drug.
Women who suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome can use letrozole alongside other treatments for a successful pregnancy.
Letrozole is used to treat and prevent hormone-dependent breast cancer.
Letrozole is used to treat the following types of breast cancer:
Letrozole treats infertility in women suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
PCOS is a condition that causes hormonal imbalances in the body that can hamper ovulation.
Many women who have PCOS have excess estrogen production in the body.
Estrogen can prevent ovulation.
Letrozole treats infertility by reducing the secretion of estrogen and allowing ovulation to occur.
Letrozole is often used in infertility treatments to help patients get pregnant.
The CYP19A1 gene provides instructions to produce the enzyme called aromatase.
This enzyme is responsible for converting a hormone called androgen (plays a role in male sexual development) to different forms of estrogen (female sex hormone).
There are certain genetic differences called variations that make each individual unique.
These variations affect many things about the body, including what the body does to a drug and what a drug does to the body.
This field of study is called pharmacogenomics.
Genetic makeup can make some people metabolize a drug slowly, thereby putting them at risk for drug toxicity. So, they may require a lower starting dose.
On the other hand, if a person’s genetic makeup makes them metabolize the drug too quickly, it may end up not being effective for that person. They may require an alternative drug or a higher starting dose.
This is important to consider before prescribing medications
Letrozole, being an aromatase inhibitor, blocks CYP19A1 gene activity, thereby reducing the conversion of androgen to estrogen.
Studies have shown that certain changes in the CYP19A1 gene result in differences in the effectiveness and tolerability of letrozole in different people.
There’s also some evidence to support that certain unfavorable changes in the CYP19A1 gene have been associated with letrozole-induced adverse events.
Letrozole has a lot of common side effects that are seen in more than 1 in 100 people.
Consult your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms:
More severe side effects can include heart attack and stroke.
Only adults above 18 years of age can take letrozole.
Always inform your doctor about these conditions if you are starting on letrozole:
There are no specific foods to avoid if you are taking letrozole unless instructed by your doctor.
Foods that can raise estrogen levels can counteract the effects of letrozole, so you might want to avoid them.
Some foods may contain phytoestrogen, a compound that resembles estrogen.
Some phytoestrogen may reduce the body’s natural estrogen, so completely cutting them from your diet may not be recommended.
If you are taking letrozole for fertility, you might have insulin resistance.
Countering insulin resistance will help you manage your PCOS better.
Consider cutting out these foods from the diet to improve insulin resistance:
If you are taking letrozole long-term, it can reduce bone density and make them brittle.
It is advisable to avoid high-sodium foods to prevent further bone loss.
Avoid highly processed foods like
If your doctor has asked to reduce phytoestrogen levels in your diet specifically, consider restricting these foods:
Letrozole can cause common symptoms like difficulty sleeping.
It is advisable to avoid coffee and other caffeinated beverages, as they might aggravate the symptoms.
Avoid coffee in the afternoon and evening if you are experiencing difficulty sleeping after taking letrozole.
The Coffee Nap Phenomenon: Fad or Fact
Patients taking letrozole long-term might experience vitamin D deficiency.
Studies have shown that women taking letrozole for over two months can have vitamin D deficiency.
This deficiency can cause musculoskeletal symptoms in women taking letrozole.
Vitamin D3 supplementation can significantly improve vitamin D deficiency.
Before starting on letrozole, inform your doctor about any previous health conditions or medications you are on.
Letrozole can cause high cholesterol, so talk to your doctor if you already have high cholesterol.
Letrozole can interact with certain products containing estrogen, like vaginal creams.
Alcohol can cause side effects like headache and dizziness if you take it with letrozole.
If you plan on drinking alcohol while on letrozole, discuss with your doctor whether there is a safe limit.
https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/letrozole-oral-tablets#off-label-use-for-infertility
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/about/how-common-is-breast-cancer.html
https://www.theguardian.com/science/2005/dec/29/cancer.health
https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/56163
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0009898116302248
The BRCA gene, often referred to in the context of breast and ovarian cancer risk, has become a focal point of medical discussions in recent years. With over 1 in 400 people possessing a mutation in either the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, understanding its inheritance pattern is crucial. This article seeks to answer the question: "Can the BRCA gene mutation skip a generation?” making the science behind it both accessible and clear.
Did You Know? Your ancestry test DNA data includes 700,000 markers, which can be used to learn your risk of breast cancer and other associated factors. This report can help you understand your body better and lower your breast cancer risk. Learn more.
There are two Breast Cancer genes of interest - BRCA1 and BRCA2.
The BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes produce the BRCA1 and BRCA2 proteins, respectively.
Both these proteins help in DNA repair.
They act as tumor suppressors and prevent cells from dividing and growing uncontrollably.
Every individual receives two copies of both these genes, contributed by each biological parent.
Mutations in both these genes may interfere with the protective effect of these proteins.
As a result, this may increase the risk of developing certain types of cancers, the primary being breast cancer.
Gene mutations occur when there is a change in the original gene’s DNA sequence.
There are two basic types of mutations - inherited and acquired.
Inherited BRCA variants occur in about 10% of all breast cancer cases.
In this case, the variant is passed down from the parents to the offspring.
BRCA1 and BRCA2 are high-penetrance genes contributing to 30% of all inherited breast cancer cases.
Acquired BRCA variants are also called somatic gene variants.
These cause 90% of all cases of breast cancer.
Acquired variants can occur randomly or be influenced by environmental factors like UV radiation or exposure to occupational chemicals.
Acquired variants could also result from lifestyle habits like smoking, use of other tobacco products, and diet.
The BRCA gene helps keep the cancer-causing potential of certain cells at bay.
With BRCA mutations, these cells are left uncontrolled, which increases the chances of them proliferating (or growing) continuously.
This results in an increased risk for several types of cancers like breast, ovarian (in biological females), and prostate (in biological males).
Both males and females can harbor mutations in their BRCA genes, which their children can inherit.
Each of us inherits two copies of every gene, one from each parent. If one parent carries a BRCA mutation, every child has a 50% chance of inheriting it.
Imagine our genes as pairs of shoes. If one parent has a mismatched pair (with one mutated BRCA gene), they could potentially pass either the regular or the mutated shoe (gene) to their child.
This is why it's a 50-50 chance. While inheriting the mutation increases the risk of certain cancers, it doesn’t guarantee it.
If a person discovers they have a BRCA mutation, it's also possible that their siblings, parents, or other relatives might have it.
Therefore, it’s often recommended that family members consider genetic testing when one member tests positive.
Ideally, gene variants cannot skip generations.
You either inherit the mutated variant from the parents or don’t.
If you don’t inherit the mutated variant from the parents, you cannot pass it on to your children either.
However, in some families, it may seem like breast cancer has skipped a generation.
The grandmother and the granddaughter could have developed breast cancer, with the mother or father not being diagnosed all their life.
How does this happen?
There can be two reasons why the BRCA gene can seemingly skip a generation.
About 10% of all cases of breast cancer are inherited.
In general, about 13% of women in the world will develop breast cancer.
In contrast, 46-65% of women who inherit the mutated BRCA1 gene may develop breast cancer.
Similarly, 43-45% of women who inherit the mutated BRCA2 gene have breast cancer.
Clearly, the risk of developing breast cancer with a positive family history is high.
The risk increases with each additional family member diagnosed with the condition.
Women inheriting mutated BRCA genes also have a higher risk of developing ovarian cancers.
Looking at the family tree can help find out if the BRCA gene has skipped a generation.
In the case of a family history of breast cancer, doctors may recommend the existing family members opt for genetic testing to know if they carry the mutated BRCA genes.
Right now, BRCA gene testing is not recommended for everyone.
It benefits those with a family history of breast cancer.
Individuals with and without a cancer diagnosis would benefit from getting genetic testing done.
Those carrying the mutated genes but not diagnosed with cancer can take appropriate steps to reduce their risk further.
The test results can help finetune the treatment in those already with a positive diagnosis.
Individuals who tested positive for BRCA mutations can take the following steps to lower breast cancer risk.
Individuals with mutated BRCA genes may be required to get early and more frequent cancer screenings to ensure the condition is caught early on.
If needed, doctors recommend that these individuals have risk-reducing surgeries to reduce their risk of developing cancers. This can include removing one or both breasts, the fallopian tubes, or the ovaries.
Chemoprevention medicines help reduce the risk of developing tumors and are preventive solutions for those with higher stakes.
The FDA has approved two chemopreventive medications as of date.
Since these medications come with a risk of harmful side effects, they are only chosen if risk-reducing surgeries are impossible.
If you have a positive family history of breast or ovarian cancer, please mention that to your doctor and discuss the possibility of getting genetic testing done as early as possible.
You should also be self-examining your breasts and talk to a professional if you notice lumps or changes in the size, shape, or symmetry of the breasts.
The correct answer to the question of whether the BRCA breast cancer gene can skip a generation is no, it cannot.
Mutated gene variants have a 50% chance of being inherited.
Even after they are inherited, they may or may not cause breast cancer.
In some cases, the individuals remain carriers of the mutated gene and pass it on to the offspring, creating an idea of the cancer skipping a generation.
Individuals with a family history of breast cancer would benefit from getting genetic testing done to know if they carry mutations of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
Knowing this would help take the right steps in bringing down the risk of developing cancers.
https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/genetics/brca-fact-sheet
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3681186/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12677558/
In recent years, TikTok has not only been a platform for dance challenges and viral pranks but has also emerged as a hub for fitness enthusiasts seeking innovative ways to stay in shape. Cozy Cardio is the latest fitness trend sweeping the app, which promises to blend the comfort of your living room with the benefits of a heart-pumping workout. But what do experts have to say about this new phenomenon? Is it just another fleeting trend, or does it hold genuine merit for those looking to achieve their fitness goals? Dive into our comprehensive analysis to find out.
Did you know? Genes have a significant influence on our physical abilities, affecting athletic performance and overall well-being. Our fitness report examines genes related to endurance and strength, muscle performance, and your response to exercise. Learn more.
Cozy cardio is a new workout trend created by the TikToker Hope Zuckerbrow.
Her TikTok page, ' Cozy Cardio Club,’ has over 5.6 million views.
As the name suggests, this is a workout done cozily in the comforts of your home, with PJs, warm lighting, and probably some light music.
According to Zuckerbrow, working out doesn’t have to be intimidating.
Many people avoid going to the gym and working out because they aren’t comfortable with the process.
With cozy cardio, the environment remains cozy, comfortable, and inviting.
You could watch a movie or your favorite show while walking or jogging on the treadmill from the living room.
Light some candles up, have your favorite drink made, and create an inviting ambiance before starting your walking or stretching.
Zuckerbrow, in most of her cozy cardio club videos, starts by making iced coffee, putting on her socks, and finding the right show to watch on her television.
She walks on her walking pad at three mph and slowly increases to up to five mph.
Zuckerbrow always gives time to cool off at the end, ensuring the calves and glutes are stretched enough.
If you are a person who is ‘gym-timated’ and gets stressed out with the mere thought of working out, then cozy cardio can be a good option.
It can also be the perfect stepping stone to reduce people's anxiety towards working out.
If working out is new to you, then cozy cardio can help you get used to moving the body and stretching the muscles without making long-term commitments to the gym.
With all the benefits of cozy cardio, it may still not be a complete package if you want to meet your workout goals and actually get fit.
Putting on fuzzy socks or warm slippers may prevent you from walking at higher speeds on the walking pad or treadmill.
You could consider this when you don’t feel like going to the gym or walking outdoors.
Switching regular workout days with a few days of cozy cardio can keep the trend interesting and excite you about staying physically active.
Picking high-calorie beverages and snacks for your cardio sessions may turn counterproductive.
So, choose the cozy food and beverage add-ons carefully.
ACE Gene: The Key To A Fit And Healthy Lifestyle!
“I don't mind the idea of finding new forms of exercise that are enjoyable, as they can lead to better workout retention over the long term. We just need to make sure that we don't get caught thinking that a super light exercise session daily will always be enough,” said Mike Hamlin, a certified fitness coach, to health.com
He also added, “I love this because incorporating elements of comfort and entertainment can potentially make the experience more appealing and get more people involved.”
Another personal trainer, Josh York, expressed his thoughts on cozy cardio to health.com, where he said that for a workout to be effective, the muscles must be worked well. Achieving this, in most cases, might push you to a point where you feel a little discomfort.
He added that the key to making cozy cardio effective would be to achieve a healthy compromise and incorporate elements of comfort with a few small challenges, like adding an incline to the treadmill walk.
You can start with cozy cardio by first identifying the definition of cozy for you.
Is it candles, comfortable PJs, music, or watching one of your favorite shows with some coffee in hand?
Do you feel cozier in the mornings, or do you want to try this at the end of the day?
Create a setup that works for you, and start your workouts with a vibe.
The idea that working out can be relaxing and calm is undoubtedly a new concept.
When people think of working out, they can only relate it to tight activewear, energy drinks, a loud environment, and sweat and tiredness.
If you want to reap the full benefit of cozy cardio, then understanding its idea is important.
The basic idea of cozy cardio is staying comfortable but working out enough to increase the heart rate.
Start slow and increase the speed with which you walk.
Make sure you gradually increase the intensity of the activity to increase blood flow to the muscles.
If you are used to working out, do not switch entirely to cozy cardio.
Instead, use these when you aren’t keen on high-intensity workouts and want something calming and relaxing.
Make use of the cozy ambiance to increase the workout time. Try walking for ten minutes more each day so you really build stamina.
https://www.health.com/cozy-cardio-workout-7629170
If you're looking for a drink that not only quenches your thirst but also claims to do wonders for your gut, you might be tempted to give prebiotic soda a shot. But the burning question remains - is this bubbly beverage your gut's best friend, or is it just another marketing gimmick? Let's take a closer look at prebiotic soda, exploring what it is, how it works, and whether it has any health benefits or drawbacks.
Genetic ancestry tests are becoming increasingly popular. While your DNA can be used learn about your roots, did you know that it can also reveal important things about your health risks and wellness aspects? You can upload your DNA data to learn 1,500+ things about your health. Learn more.
Prebiotic soda is a fizzy drink enriched with prebiotics that supports your gut microbiota.
Like popular soft drinks, they also come in various flavors.
It is typically lower in added sugar compared to traditional soda.
It can include natural ingredients like chicory root, apple cider vinegar, and botanical extracts to provide prebiotics and flavor.
These sodas generally have reduced sugar content, ranging from 2 to 5 grams per can, and fewer calories, typically 20 to 50 calories per serving.
Some popular brands include Poppi and Olipop.
Prebiotics are like special snacks for the friendly bacteria in our gut.
They're not something our bodies can digest, but these little goodies are what our helpful gut microbes love to munch on.
By giving them these snacks, we're giving our gut buddies the energy they need to do their job well.
And what's their job? It's helping to keep our gut healthy!
You won't find a specific daily amount we should eat as we do for vitamins.
Still, experts from the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP) suggest that having at least 5 grams of prebiotics each day is a good goal.
You can discover prebiotics in many foods, like:
These foods are like a buffet for the good bacteria in our guts, ensuring they stay happy and healthy.
The Gut-Brain Connection: Probiotics For Depression
Prebiotic soda has shown promise in benefiting health through various mechanisms.
However, it is important to remember that research on the health benefits of probiotics and prebiotics is limited.
Here's a quick list of potential advantages:
The jury is still out on whether prebiotic sodas are good for the gut and overall health.
So, if you are planning to give it a try, go for ones that have natural ingredients with no added sugar.
Depending on the brand, prebiotic soda has different nutritional values.
Most of them are low in calories and sugar and may contain prebiotic fibers, which are beneficial for the gut.
Here is an example of the nutritional information of a 12-ounce (oz) can:
According to Dr. Linsenmeyer, 2–5 grams of added sugar per 12 oz can is acceptable.
When it comes to enjoying prebiotic soda, most people can do so without any worries.
However, for some, there might be a few adverse reactions. These can happen due to the high fiber content or the unique ingredients in certain brands.
Some possible side effects are:
Note: Tolerance of doses depends upon the sensitivity factor that differs from person to person.
If you experience any of these side effects after consuming prebiotic soda, you should stop drinking it and consult your doctor.
Beating Bad Gut Bacteria: Starve Them!
People with certain health issues or taking medications that may interact with the prebiotics or other ingredients in the drink should avoid drinking it.
Some examples are:
Prebiotic soda is not the only option to supplement prebiotics and boost gut health.
Numerous more foods are naturally high in prebiotics and can provide a variety of health and well-being advantages.
Here are several examples:
Prebiotic soda is a carbonated beverage designed to support gut health by containing prebiotics.
It comes in various flavors with lower added sugar and calories than traditional soda.
Prebiotics are non-digestible compounds that support beneficial gut bacteria, and some popular brands of prebiotic soda include Poppi and Olipop.
These sodas offer potential health benefits, such as improved calcium absorption, blood sugar regulation, enhanced gut function, and immune system support.
However, individual tolerance may vary; some may experience side effects like bloating, gas, or cramps.
People with certain health conditions or on medication should consult a doctor before consuming prebiotic soda.
https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/are-prebiotic-sodas-good-for-your-health/
https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/8/3/92
https://www.health.com/prebiotic-soda-benefits-7824404
https://www.healthline.com/health-news/probiotic-soda-gut-health-benefits
