How a healthy gut can reduce the severity of Covid and the flu

A study of Croatian children attending daycare saw half of them given probiotics and the other half a placebo - after three months those taking probiotics had a lower risk of respiratory tract infections and experienced less time unwell when infected.

Swedish researchers also conducted a study on 272 adults and found that the group using probiotics experienced the milder cold and flu symptoms and less time infected with a virus.

It also found cases of the cold and flu among participants those who had taken probiotics averaged 6.2 days compared to the 8.2 days those taking a placebo experienced.

As consultant gastroenterologist and UNSW Professor of Medicine Emad El-Omar explains, the gut microbiome's primary role is to educate our immune system about our environment.

The lion's share of our immune system - around two-thirds of all immune cells – is concentrated in digestive system which is why UNSW’s Microbiome Research Centre is exploring how the gut microbiome’s make-up affects immune responses and changes with various disease progression.

Source: Dispensaries and NSW Health

picture - Supercharged Food

More messages from your neighbours

3 hours ago

Journey Through Art

Arts for Health from Arts for Health Community Trust

Designed for people of all abilities, including those living with disabilities, this class encourages creativity, self-expression, and the joy of making art. Whether you’re just getting started or looking for fresh inspiration, you’ll have the freedom to experiment, discover what you love, and develop your artistic style and art skills in a tutored class.

Come and explore, create amazing art, and meet new people. Support people are welcome.

Book now at - www.artsforhealth.co.nz...

14 days ago

Scam Alert: Fake information regarding December Bonuses from MSD

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Ministry of Social Development is reporting that fake information is circulating about new ‘December bonuses’ or ‘benefit increases’

If you get suspicious communication, please contact Netsafe.