prebiotics vs probiotics

Prebiotics vs. Probiotics: What’s The Difference?

The human gut is home to a complex and diverse community of microorganisms, which play a crucial role in maintaining our health. Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for you, especially your digestive system. They help keep your gut microbiome—the community of microbes that live in your intestines—healthy. Prebiotics are non-digestible food ingredients that encourage the growth and activity of good bacteria in your gut.

Probiotics are live microorganisms that are similar to the microbes that naturally live in your gut. When you take them in adequate amounts, they can have a health-promoting effect on your gut microbiome by restoring the balance of good and bad bacteria. Probiotics are found in fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi, as well as in supplements.

Prebiotics are non-digestible food ingredients that promote the growth and activity of good bacteria in your gut. By stimulating the growth of beneficial bacteria, prebiotics help to keep your gut microbiome healthy. Prebiotics are found in a variety of plant-based foods, including onions, garlic, bananas, and oats.

While probiotics and prebiotics both support gut health, they have different mechanisms of action. Probiotics are live microorganisms that can beneficially affect the host by restoring the balance of gut microbiota. Prebiotics are non-digestible food ingredients that serve as fuel for gut bacteria and promote their growth.

Probiotics are live bacteria that are good for you and your digestive system.

Prebiotics are non-digestible food ingredients that encourage the growth and activity of good bacteria in your gut.

Should I Choose Prebiotics or Probiotics?

Your microbiome—the genes in all the microbes living in and on your body—has a huge impact on your health, but you’re not born with it. You acquire it through contact with the world around you, starting at birth. The composition of your microbiome changes over time, influenced by the food you eat, the medications you take, the amount of sleep you get, and even the people you interact with. All of these factors can have an impact on your gut health.

There are two main types of gut bacteria: probiotics and prebiotics. Probiotics are live, beneficial bacteria that can provide health benefits when consumed. Prebiotics are non-living, indigestible fiber-like carbohydrates that act as food for probiotics and other beneficial gut bacteria.

There are many different strains of probiotics, and they can be found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, or in supplement form. Probiotics are also added to some foods, like yogurt and some cheeses.

Prebiotics are found in a variety of plant-based foods, including chicory root, garlic, onion, Jerusalem artichoke, dandelion greens, and bananas. You can also find prebiotics in supplement form.

So, which should you choose? Probiotics or prebiotics?

The answer may depend on your specific gut health needs. Probiotics can help to restore the balance of gut bacteria after a course of antibiotics, for example. They can also help with digestive issues like diarrhea, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome. Some studies have even linked probiotic consumption to a reduced risk of allergies and obesity.

Prebiotics, on the other hand, are thought to help gut bacteria grow and thrive. They’re also associated with a reduced risk of allergies and a lower chance of developing obesity.

There’s no “right” answer when it comes to probiotics vs. prebiotics. The best way to determine what’s best for you is to talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian. They can help you figure out which type (or combination of types) of gut bacteria might be most beneficial for you and how to get them through diet or supplements.

Can I Take Prebiotics and Probiotics Together?

Yes, you can take prebiotics and probiotics together. Probiotics are live microorganisms that are similar to the ones naturally found in your body. They can help restore the balance of good bacteria in your gut, which can lead to better gut health. Prebiotics are non-digestible fiber that serves as food for probiotics. They can help promote the growth of good bacteria in your gut.

There are many different probiotics and prebiotics available, so it’s important to choose the right ones for you. You may want to talk to your healthcare provider before taking them to make sure they’re right for you.

Recommended Prebiotics and Probiotics Supplements

There are many different brands of prebiotics and probiotics on the market today. It can be hard to know which ones are the best. Here are some recommendations for good prebiotics and probiotics brands.

1. Physician’s Choice 60 Billion Probiotic

Probiotics are living microorganisms that are similar to the good bacteria that live in your gut. They offer many health benefits, including improving digestive health, boosting immunity and even aiding in weight loss.

One of the most popular probiotic brands is Physician’s Choice 60 Billion Probiotic. This supplement contains 60 billion live cultures of 10 different strains of probiotics, making it one of the most potent probiotic supplements on the market.

The 10 strains of probiotics in Physician’s Choice Probiotics 60 Billion are:

  • Lactobacillus casei
  • Lactobacillus acidophilus
  • Lactobacillus paracasei
  • Lactobacillus salivarius
  • Lactobacillus plantarum
  • Lactobacillus bulgaricus
  • Bifidobacterium lactis
  • Bifidobacterium bifidum
  • Bifidobacterium longum
  • Bifidobacterium breve

Each of these probiotic strains has different health benefits. For example, Lactobacillus acidophilus is one of the most well-researched probiotics and it is known for its ability to improve digestive health. Meanwhile, Bifidobacterium bifidum has been shown to boost immunity.

Physician’s Choice Probiotics 60 Billion is a high-quality probiotic supplement that can offer many health benefits. If you are looking for a probiotic supplement to improve your overall health, this is a great choice.

2. Physician’s Choice Women’s Probiotic

Probiotics are live microorganisms that are similar to the good bacteria found in our digestive system. They help keep the intestines clean and free of harmful bacteria. Probiotics are found in yogurt and other fermented foods, as well as in supplements.

Physician’s Choice Women’s Probiotic is a daily probiotic supplement that helps maintain digestive and vaginal health. The probiotic strains in this supplement are lactobacillus acidophilus, lactobacillus paracasei, lactobacillus plantarum, lactobacillus gasseri, and bifidobacterium lactis, which have been shown to be effective in maintaining vaginal health. This supplement also contains organic Prebiotic, which helps to feed the probiotics and promote their growth.

Physician’s Choice Women’s Probiotic is a high-quality probiotic supplement that can help maintain digestive and vaginal health. It is convenient and easy to take, and it contains natural and effective probiotic strains.

3. BioSchwartz Advanced Strength Prebiotic + Probiotic

If you want to improve your digestive and overall health, you may want to consider taking a probiotic supplement like BioSchwartz Advanced Strength Prebiotic + Probiotic. Probiotics are live microorganisms (usually bacteria) that are similar to the ones that naturally live in your gut. They have many health benefits, including reducing digestive problems, boosting immunity, and improving mental health.

BioSchwartz Advanced Strength Prebiotic + Probiotic is a high-quality probiotic supplement that contains a blend of 10 different probiotic strains. It also contains a prebiotic fiber to help nourish the probiotics and promote their growth. This supplement is third-party tested for purity and potency and comes with a money-back satisfaction guarantee.

Some of the health benefits of BioSchwartz Advanced Strength Prebiotic + Probiotic include:

  • Improves Digestive Health
  • Boosts Immunity
  • Improves Mental Health
  • Prevents Allergies
  • Reduces Eczema

If you’re looking for a high-quality probiotic supplement to improve your health, we recommend BioSchwartz Advanced Strength Prebiotic + Probiotic.

best affordable facial cleansers for dry skin

Best Affordable Facial Cleansers for Dry Skin Under $15

Cleansing is an important step in any skincare routine, but it’s especially important for those with dry or sensitive skin. If you’re on the hunt for a new facial cleanser, we’ve got you covered with a roundup of the best affordable options that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils.

1. CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a cult-favorite for a reason: it’s gentle, effective, and affordable. The hyaluronic acid and ceramides in the formula help to help lock in moisture and restore the skin’s natural barrier, while the foaming action lightly exfoliates and removes makeup and dirt. It is also non-comedogenic and fragrance-free.

2. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser

This gentle cleanser from La Roche-Posay is formulated with the brand’s unique Thermal Spring Water to help soothe and calm the skin. The ultra-gentle, milky formula is also non-stripping and hydrating, making it a great option for those with dry, sensitive skin.

3. Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Face Cleanser

Aveeno’s Daily Moisturizing Face Cleanser is a great option for those with dry, sensitive skin. The soap-free, sulfate-free and fragrance-free formula is gentle and non-stripping, and it’s infused with soothing oat extract to calm the skin.

4. Aveeno Calm and Restore Nourishing Oat Cleanser

If you’re someone who is looking for a gentle and soothing cleanser, you may want to try the Aveeno Calm and Restore Nourishing Oat Cleanser. This cleanser is designed to nourish and calm sensitive skin while also cleansing it. The oat in the cleanser is said to help soothe and restore the skin’s natural barrier. Additionally, the cleanser is paraben-free, soap-free, and non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog your pores.

5. Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser

The Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser is a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser that leaves your skin feeling clean and refreshed without over-drying. This cleanser is perfect for those with sensitive skin, as it contains no drying alcohols, sulfates, or other harsh chemicals. The hydrating formula leaves your skin feeling smooth and soft, and it is safe for use on both the face and body.

6. Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser

Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser is a product that has been around for a while and has been a staple for many people with sensitive skin. It is a non-comedogenic (meaning it does not clog pores), fragrance-free, and sulfate-free cleanser that is also safe for people with rosacea. Because it is so gentle, it can be used morning and night and does not strip the skin of its natural oils. It leaves the skin feeling clean and refreshed without being dry or tight.

hair loss

How to Prevent Hair Loss: 5 Essential Products

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), as many as two-thirds of Americans will experience some form of hair loss by the time they turn 35. And while hair loss is more common as we age, it doesn’t necessarily make it any easier to accept.

After searching a lot of material online as well as my own experience, I found the following 5 products have proved to be very helpful for my hair loss.

1. Shower Head Filter

Hair loss is a problem that many people suffer from. There are many factors that can contribute to hair loss, such as stress, diet, and genetics. One factor that is often overlooked is the quality of the water that you shower in. Hard water can damage your hair and lead to hair loss. A shower head filter can help to remove harmful minerals and chemicals from your water, and improve the quality of your shower water. This can help to prevent hair loss, and keep your hair healthy and strong. Here are two that come highly recommended: AquaBliss High Output Revitalizing Shower Filter and AquaHomeGroup 20 Stage Luxury Filtered Shower Head Set.

2. Vitamin B Complex

Vitamin B Complex is a group of eight water-soluble vitamins that play important roles in cell metabolism. These vitamins are essential for the health of the nervous system, skin, hair, and eyes. Vitamin B complex deficiency can lead to hair loss.

Vitamin B complex can be found in a variety of foods, such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, milk, and fortified cereals. It can also be taken as a supplement. Supplementing with B Complex can help to prevent hair loss and promote hair growth.

3. Biotin

Biotin, also known as vitamin H or B7, is a water-soluble vitamin that is part of the vitamin B complex. This vitamin is important for a number of bodily processes, including the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates, the production of DNA and RNA, and the synthesis of certain enzymes.

Biotin is also necessary for the health of skin, hair, and nails. In fact, biotin deficiency is one of the most common causes of hair loss. supplements can help prevent hair loss and promote hair growth.

When biotin levels are insufficient, hair follicles can become damaged and miniaturized. This type of hair loss is often seen in women who have a history of anemia or autoimmune disease. These conditions can lead to inflammation and nutrient deficiencies, both of which can impact hair health.

Biotin supplements can help to prevent hair loss by restoring biotin levels in the body. In one study, women with thinning hair who took a daily biotin supplement for six months experienced significant hair growth.

Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin that is commonly taken as a supplement to improve hair health. This vitamin is necessary for the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates, the production of DNA and RNA, and the synthesis of certain enzymes. Biotin deficiency can lead to hair loss, so supplements may help prevent this.

4. PURA D’OR Original Gold Label Anti-Thinning Biotin Shampoo

PURA D’OR is an all-natural, organic shampoo that has been clinically proven to reduce hair loss and promote hair growth. The shampoo contains a powerful blend of botanical extracts and essential oils that work together to nourish the scalp and hair follicles, and promote a healthy scalp environment.

Pura D’OR has been shown to be effective in reducing hair loss due to a variety of factors, including stress, hormonal imbalances, and nutritional deficiencies. The shampoo is also effective in treating dandruff, scalp inflammation, and other scalp conditions that can lead to hair loss.

To use Pura D’OR, massage the shampoo into wet hair and scalp. Leave on for 3-5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. For best results, use daily.

5. Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Foam

If your hair loss is severe, you may want to try Rogaine Extra Strength for men or Rogaine for women.

Rogaine is a topical solution that is applied to the scalp twice a day. It is FDA-approved to treat both male- and female-pattern baldness. The active ingredient in Rogaine is minoxidil. Minoxidil promotes hair growth by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles.

There are a few possible side effects of using Rogaine, such as dryness, itching, and redness of the scalp. However, these side effects are usually mild and temporary.

If you are concerned about your hair loss, talk to your doctor about whether Rogaine Extra Strength is right for you.

stop overthinking

Strategies to Stop Overthinking

If you’re anything like me, you overthink everything. Every decision, both big and small, gets second guessed and mulled over for days (or even weeks!) before being acted on. If you’re ready to take back control of your life and stop overthinking everything, here are five strategies that can help:

1. Be mindful of your thought patterns

The first step to changing any behavior is becoming aware of it. Start paying attention to when and why you overthink things. Is there a particular trigger that sets you off? Is it something specific, like making a presentation at work, or is it something more general, like decision-making in general?

Once you’ve identified your triggers, you can start to work on changing your thought patterns.

2. Challenge your negative thoughts

We’re often our own worst critics, and the negative thoughts that run through our heads can be extremely harmful. If you catch yourself thinking something negative, take a step back and ask yourself if it’s really true.

For example, if you’re thinking “I’m not good enough”, ask yourself “what evidence do I have to support this?”. Chances are, you’ll struggle to come up with anything!

3. Practice mindfulness

Mindfulness is all about being present in the moment and focusing on your thoughts and feelings without judgement. It can be helpful to practice mindfulness when you’re not feeling overwhelmed so that you can learn to recognize the early signs of overthinking.

There are lots of different ways to practice mindfulness, but a simple way to start is to focus on your breath. Sit or lie down in a comfortable position and close your eyes. Focus your attention on your breath and try to count each inhale and exhale. If your mind wanders, simply return your focus to your breath.

4. Find a hobby or activity that helps you relax

For me, drawing is a great way to relax and switch off from overthinking. It allows me to focus on something else and be creative, which is a nice break from analyzing everything to death!

Find an activity that you enjoy and that helps you relax. It could be something active like going for a run or playing a sport, or something more passive like reading, listening to music or spending time in nature.

5. Seek professional help

If you’ve tried all of the above strategies and you’re still struggling to control your overthinking, it may be time to seek professional help. A therapist can help you to understand the root cause of your overthinking and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

If you’re ready to put an end to overthinking, give these strategies a try. It takes time and practice to break old habits, but it’s worth it to live a more peaceful and enjoyable life.