You know that “gut feeling” you get sometimes? It turns out it might not be just your instincts after all.
It could be your meds.
Your gut relies on a delicate balance of bacteria for… well… just about EVERYTHING.
For example, the right blend of bacteria – at the correct levels – is essential for good…
- digestion
- immune system function
- mood
- memory
- nutrition
Those good bugs could even help fight cancer, protect the heart, and ward off autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. Plus, they could help ease symptoms if you already have them.
Many common meds DESTROY belly bacteria
But they can’t do the job if they’re all out of balance. And there’s a good chance your own populations are WAY out of whack.
But it’s not because of what you’ve done. It’s because of something that’s been done TO you.
Specifically, done to you by your meds, as new research finds that MANY common drugs can wipe out vital stomach bacteria.
But today I’m going to reveal the secrets that could help get out of balance belly bugs back on track.
These simple solutions can be used to eliminate bacteria-killing meds, replace them with safer options, and restore the balance needed for overall good health.
A new study looked at the 41 most common types of medication taken in America. And, shockingly, researchers found that nearly HALF can wreck your microbiota. Those are all of the little critters that help your body function, including your good gut bacteria.
The drugs that are killing your bugs
But some drugs are worse than others. Much worse.
Following are four of the worst offenders… along with some tips on replacing them.
And if you DO need to take one of these drugs, I’ve also got a solution that could help reverse any damage they may be doing, too.
1. Antibiotics: These drugs are the least surprising ones on the list. Of course they kill off bacteria because that’s literally their job.
But the problem with antibiotics is that they kill off the good bugs right along with the bad. And that can lead to notorious side effects, including digestive disorders, diarrhea, and secondary infections.
The fact is there are times an acute and dangerous infection requires an antibiotic. But in other milder cases, such as a common UTI, natural options such as cranberry and d-mannose could do the trick without wiping out your bacteria. So always ask your doc about any non-drug options.
2. PPIs: People take PPIs to reduce stomach acid to prevent reflux and heartburn. But when you mess with acid levels, you also mess with the balance of everything else in the digestive system, including gut bacteria.
Natural options for reflux, such as drinking down a teaspoon of ordinary baking soda dissolved in a glass of water, can be just as effective for many folks as the drugs. Other proven home remedies for heartburn include chamomile, fennel, and ginger teas.
3. Metformin: Metformin is one of the most commonly prescribed diabetes drugs. And it turns out it’s also the one most likely to mess up your gut.
But it’s possible to eliminate your need for diabetes meds, especially if you’re diagnosis wasn’t too long ago. A diet with limited sugar and minimal carbs, combined with natural therapies such as berberine, chromium, and regular exercise, can help nudge blood sugars back into the healthy zone.
Work with your doc on a plan to reduce, or even eliminate, your metformin.
4. Laxatives: Nothing messes with your gut bacteria quite like a drug that… well… clears out the gut. Remember, laxatives should always be used VERY sparingly.
Natural options are often a far better first option. If you’re plugged up, a little coffee can often help get things moving, for example. If you don’t like coffee… or it’s too late in the day for caffeine… you might want to try magnesium instead.
And no matter what meds you take, or even if you take no meds at all, consider a high-quality probiotic. Probiotics can help shore up your natural bacteria for good gut balance and better digestion.
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