The gut and asthma risk

More and more is being learned about the human microbiome, the collection of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, collectively known as microbes, that make their home in and on us.  We typically divide the microbiome into areas, for example the gastrointestinal tract, the skin, the sinuses and airway, but it is important to know that all the microbiomes communicate with one another and with us.  This can be good or bad, depending on how they interact with us.

We are finding that some microbes tend to serve us well, protecting us from disease, whereas others set us up for problems.

It was recently shown that there was an association between a particular bacteriophage (a type of virus that infects bacteria) and the increased development of asthma.  The risk was found to be independent of the bacteria (meaning it may have been mediated by the bacteriophage itself).

What can I do about my gut bacteria?

The microbiome is really a relatively new field in medicine.  We are learning about associations between our tiny inhabitants and diseases as well as modification to modify the course of disease.  Taking a great probiotic is one way to do so.  My recommendation is Sungenomics, which analyzes the microbiome before making a taylor-made probiotic for you, making it more scientific than the “one size fits all” probiotics that you find on the store shelves.  For those who cannot quite afford this one, I recommend Fiore, a brand that is found in the refrigerated section in some grocery stores (Sprouts locally carries it).

What characterizes a “good” probiotic?

There are many probiotics on the market.  What makes one better than another.  One that is helpful, without side effects and has a large number of CFUs or colony-forming units of various bacteria.  Variety is great, although it can also be achieved by switching the probiotic periodically.  The way the probiotic is treated is also important:  one that is shipped and kept in refrigeration is going to be more effective than one that is kept in a warehouse, transported in a hot truck, and then sits on a shelf at variable temperatures for months to years.  The effectiveness is dependent on all the bacteria surviving.

How do I avoid GI side effects from my probiotic?

Some patients get nausea and diarrhea when starting a probiotic.  This may be a sign that it is too much.  Stop until your GI tract is rested and then open the probiotic capsule and empty the contents into a noncarbonated fruit juice.  After mixing, take a small amount daily and slowly increase until you are at a full dose.

Call 480-500-1902 or request an appointment at https://relieveallergyaz.com/contact now!  Begin your allergy testing journey with Dr. Wendt at Relieve Allergy in Scottsdale, Arizona—It’s time to take care of yourself!

Learn more about Dr. Wendt and Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives at www.relieveallergyaz.com or connect with us: https://www.facebook.com/RelieveAllergy/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-wendt/, https://x.com/RelieveAllergy, https://www.instagram.com/relieve_allergy/ or https://www.youtube.com/@JulieWendt-qx7jm.  Did you know? Dr. Wendt wrote the book on allergies.  Buy it at: https://geni.us/WhatsEatingOurKids

Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives is located near Kierland Commons, 21803 N. Scottsdale Road Ste. 200, and has convenient evening and morning hours to accommodate your schedule. Dr. Wendt is also available for telemedicine appointments as appropriate. Most insurance plans are accepted.

DISCLAIMER: This blog is not meant to substitute for medical care by an Allergist-Immunologist nor is it intended to provide medical advice or imply a Physician-Patient relationship with its readers or their family. It is intended to provide guidance, direction, and moral support from someone experienced in testing and treating allergies. This is also not meant to be a “do-it-yourself” manual or a “how to” overcome your allergies. Some of the issues mentioned, whether allergic or look-a-like, can be dangerous or if left unchecked, deadly. Please develop a relationship with a Physician you trust to help you with diagnosis, advice, questions, and treatment regarding your and your family’s medical conditions.