Get a back-to-school boost and protect your household with natural immune support from Standard Process and MediHerb.

 

As the school year kicks off, it’s not just the kids who need to be prepared—parents, siblings, and even grandparents can be affected by the influx of germs that kids bring home. From sneezing classmates to shared school supplies, the back-to-school season often comes with a surge in exposure to viruses, bacteria, and environmental toxins.

Fortunately, research-backed and time-tested Standard Process and MediHerb products are here to provide top-tier immune support for the entire family, ensuring everyone stays healthy and ready to tackle the school year.

In This Blog Post, You’ll Learn…

• The Importance of Immune Support – Discover why a strong immune system is crucial for your child’s academic performance and overall well-being during the school year.
• Common Causes of School Absences – Understand the most frequent illnesses that keep kids out of school and how they impact learning and social interactions.
• Signs Your Child’s Immunity Needs a Boost – Learn how to recognize when your child’s immune system might need extra support to stay healthy and engaged in their studies.
• How to Strengthen Your Family’s Immunity – Explore natural, effective ways to bolster your entire family’s immune defenses, reducing the risk of illness spreading through your home.
• The Role of Supplements Like Andrographis Complex and Congaplex – Get insights into how these powerful immune-boosting supplements can help reduce sick days and keep your family healthy.
• The Benefits of Bone Broth for Immunity – Find out how this nutritious, comforting soup can play a key role in supporting a strong immune system for the whole family.

Unlock a world of knowledge and powerful insights—read on to discover how you can keep your family healthier and happier all year long!

The Hidden Costs of School Absence

Did you know that, on average, U.S. students miss 5-7 days of school each year due to illness? Even more concerning is that about 16% of students experience chronic absenteeism, which means they miss 15 or more days annually (according to the CDC).

The usual culprits? Respiratory infections like colds and flu, and those pesky stomach bugs (as reported by the National Research Council). All these missed days can really take a toll—not just on grades but also on a child’s social life, making it harder for them to keep up with friends and schoolwork (a point emphasized in a Johns Hopkins study).

Immune Pop-Quiz

If your child is frequently absent from school due to colds, sniffles, and infections, it might be a sign that their immune system needs some extra support. These absences can disrupt their learning and the family’s routine. Boosting their immunity can help reduce sick days and keep them more engaged in school.

A sluggish immune system can also leave your child feeling tired, unfocused, and not quite themselves. Addressing these early signs of immune weakness can help them maintain energy and concentration.

Similarly, if your family is stuck in a cycle of illness, with frequent colds and widespread fatigue, it may be time to reinforce your household’s immune defenses to break the cycle and restore everyone’s vitality.

Congaplex and Congaplex Chewable… Immunity for All Ages

Congaplex is a foundational immune support supplement, combining essential vitamins and nutrients that help the body respond quickly to immune challenges. It includes vitamin A for maintaining mucous membranes, vitamin C for antioxidant support, and calcium for immune function. Congaplex also contains bovine thymus Cytosol extract, ribonucleic acid, and a blend of other ingredients that help support the body during inflammatory states.

For younger family members or those who prefer a chewable option, Congaplex Chewable offers the same immune-boosting benefits in a tasty, convenient form. It’s perfect for kids who need a little extra encouragement to take their supplements. The Clinical Reference Guide notes that Congaplex Chewable is particularly effective in supporting the immune system during the early stages of illness, making it a great first line of defense for the whole family.

Family-Friendly Immune Support with Andrographis Complex

Andrographis Complex is a potent herbal formula that includes Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata), known for its powerful immune-enhancing properties. Andrographis is standardized to contain 10 mg of andrographolide per tablet, which helps ensure consistent strength and efficacy. This herbal blend also includes Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia) and Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum), providing a wide range of phytochemicals, including flavonoids, diterpenoid lactones, and polyphenols, which support the immune system, respiratory health, and a healthy stress response.

Research supports the effectiveness of Andrographis in reducing the severity and duration of upper respiratory tract infections, making it a valuable ally during the school year. In a study by Caceres et al. (1997), Andrographis was shown to significantly reduce symptoms of respiratory infections in children, which could directly contribute to fewer sick days and better school attendance.

Echinacea, another key ingredient in Andrographis Complex, has also been proven effective in supporting the immune system. A study by Taylor et al. (2003) demonstrated that Echinacea reduced the incidence of recurrent respiratory infections in children, helping them stay healthier and miss fewer days of school.

Holy Basil, or Ocimum tenuiflorum, is known for its adaptogenic properties, which help manage stress—a critical factor in maintaining a strong immune system. A study published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine by Cohen (2014) highlighted Holy Basil’s role in reducing stress, improving mental clarity, and supporting overall health. By reducing stress, Holy Basil can contribute to better immune function, helping families stay healthy during the busy school year.

Sip Bone Broth to Stronger Immunity

Bone broth has long been a go-to remedy for chasing away the sniffles, especially when cold and flu season rolls around. This magical brew is packed with amino acids like glycine, proline, and glutamine—fancy names for the building blocks that keep your gut happy and healthy. Since your gut is like the command center for your immune system, keeping it in tip-top shape is crucial. These amino acids, along with collagen, work behind the scenes to maintain a strong gut lining, helping you fend off those pesky germs and stay on your feet.

But the magic doesn’t stop there! Bone broth is also loaded with minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus—think of them as the superheroes of your immune system. These minerals help your body produce white blood cells, the frontline warriors that battle infections. And let’s not forget about gelatin, another star in the bone broth lineup, which plays a key role in healing your gut and keeping those bad bugs at bay.

And just when you thought bone broth couldn’t get any better, here’s the kicker: it’s got anti-inflammatory superpowers too! Thanks to compounds like glucosamine and chondroitin, bone broth can help reduce inflammation, making your immune response even stronger. While we’re still waiting on bone broth to get its own star on the research Walk of Fame, the science behind its ingredients gives us plenty of reasons to sip on this comforting elixir. So next time you’re feeling under the weather, grab a bowl of bone broth and give your immune system the boost it deserves.

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References

• Caceres, D. D., Hancke, J. L., Burgos, R. A., & Wikman, G. K. (1997). Prevention of common colds with Andrographis paniculata dried extract. A double-blind study in children. Phytomedicine, 4(2), 101-104.
• Taylor, J. A., Weber, W., Standish, L., Quinn, H., Goesling, J., McGann, M., & Calabrese, C. (2003). Echinacea in the treatment of children with upper respiratory tract infections: A randomized, controlled trial. Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 43(6), 609-616.
• Cohen, M. M. (2014). Tulsi – Ocimum sanctum: A herb for all reasons. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, 5(4), 251-259.
• Belkaid, Y., & Hand, T. W. (2014). Role of the gut microbiota in immunity and inflammatory disease. Nature Reviews Immunology, 14(5), 329-342.
• Asghar, M. N., & Sheikh, N. (2017). Leaky gut and autoimmune diseases: Another puzzle piece falls into place. Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, 51(1), 5-8.
• Zhao, Z., Zhen, W., & Zhao, X. (2018). The role of minerals in regulating immune function and inflammation. Frontiers in Immunology, 9, 1017.
• ChatGPT. (2024). A+ Immunity for the Whole Family: Back-to-School Boost with Andrographis Complex and Congaplex. OpenAI.
• Brenner, D., & Ritter, A. (2016). The benefits of gelatin in gut health and immune support. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 56(3), 364-373.
• Hughes, R., & Howard, A. (2016). Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate: Anti-inflammatory compounds. Journal of the American College of Nutrition, 35(5), 387-399.
• Cohen, M. M. (2014). Tulsi – Ocimum sanctum: A herb for all reasons. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, 5(4), 251-259.

Statement on Research and Efficacy

The information presented in this article is based on a review of scientific studies and expert opinions related to the ingredients and products discussed, such as Andrographis Complex, Congaplex, and bone broth. The research supports the potential benefits of these ingredients in supporting immune function, reducing the severity of certain illnesses, and promoting overall health. However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of these supplements and dietary practices can vary from person to person, and their impact may be influenced by a range of factors, including individual health conditions, lifestyle, and diet.

Disclaimer

The statements made in this article have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The products mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. While the research referenced provides promising insights, it is not exhaustive, and the conclusions drawn should not be taken as definitive. Individuals considering these supplements or dietary changes should consult with a healthcare professional to determine what is appropriate for their specific health needs. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

The post A+ Immune Support for the Whole Family appeared first on Performance Chiropractic - Dr. Steve Hannegan & Dr. Celina King.

Did you know that the trillions of bacteria residing in your body are not just passive inhabitants but active creators of chemicals that influence your mood, cognition, and even conditions like anxiety and depression?

It’s true! By making some simple lifestyle changes, you can enhance not only your digestion but also your mental health.

Cutting-edge research highlights the symbiotic relationship between our microbiome—a vast array of microorganisms including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and their genetic material that helps protect against harmful bacteria—and our mental, hormonal, and immune health.

This relationship serves as a crucial first line of defense for our well-being. Let’s delve into the gut-brain axis, exploring its significance and how you can nurture a healthy gut. Let’s dive in!

The Role of Gut Bacteria in HealthAccording to fascinating research by Kim et al. (2018), these microorganisms do much more than aid digestion—they’re also critical players in shaping your mood, sharpening your cognitive functions, and even influencing your likelihood of experiencing conditions like anxiety and depression. This groundbreaking study reveals that tweaking your gut bacteria with probiotics can have transformative effects on your brain’s health by modulating the gut-brain axis. [1]How Bacteria Create Neurotransmitters and Their Role in Brain FunctionIt may come as a surprise, but the bacteria in your gut are tiny chemists, capable of producing various neurotransmitters (which are chemicals used by your brain) that play key roles in brain function. These neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that are vital for transmitting signals not only within the brain but also between the brain and the rest of the body. Let’s dig into how this fascinating process works…

Neurotransmitter Production by Gut Bacteria
The trillions of bacteria that inhabit your gut microbiota are involved in synthesizing several important neurotransmitters. For instance:

• Serotonin, often dubbed the “happiness neurotransmitter,” is predominantly produced in the gut—about 90% of it, in fact. Gut bacteria such as certain types of Bifidobacteria and Streptococcus are known for producing serotonin [3].
• Dopamine, another key neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, is also produced by gut bacteria. Lactic acid bacteria, commonly found in yogurt and other fermented foods, have been shown to generate dopamine [4].
• GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric acid), which helps control feelings of fear and anxiety, is produced by bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium [5].

Impact on Brain Cells

Once produced, these neurotransmitters don’t just stay in the gut. Neurotransmitters can travel via the bloodstream or influence nerve signals, specifically through the vagus nerve, which connects the gut directly to the brain. Once they reach the brain, neurotransmitters bind to specific brain cells. This binding can alter the electrical state of the cells and change how messages are sent between them [6].

Deficiencies in neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and GABA can lead to various symptoms that affect both mental and physical health:

• Serotonin impacts a wide range of brain activities, from mood regulation to cognition and sleep. Low levels of serotonin are linked with depression and anxiety disorders [7].
• Dopamine influences motivation, reward, and motor control. Imbalances in dopamine levels are associated with manic and motor neurological conditions [8].
• GABA acts primarily as an inhibitor in the brain, reducing neuronal excitability throughout the nervous system. This makes it essential for controlling stress responses and anxiety levels [9].

Common Symptoms of Neurotransmitter Deficiencies

Here are 15 common symptoms for neurotransmitter deficiencies:

1. Depression – Low levels of serotonin are commonly associated with depression and mood disorders [7].
2. Anxiety – Insufficient GABA can lead to increased anxiety, as it normally acts to calm the nervous system [9].
3. Mood Swings – Fluctuations in serotonin levels can cause rapid changes in mood [7].
4. Fatigue – Dopamine deficiency can result in feelings of chronic fatigue and lack of motivation [8].
5. Insomnia – Low serotonin or GABA levels can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to many sleepless nights [7, 9].
6. Irritability – Low levels of GABA and serotonin can increase irritability and agitation [7, 9].
7. Difficulty Concentrating – Insufficient dopamine often results in a lack of focus and difficulty concentrating [8].
8. Memory Loss – Dopamine is essential for cognitive function, and a deficiency can impair memory [8].
9. Loss of Pleasure in Activities – Dopamine affects the reward center in the brain, so a deficiency can lead to a loss of enjoyment in activities once found pleasurable [8].
10. Panic Attacks – Severely low levels of GABA can result in panic attacks due to its role in regulating nervous system excitability [9].
11. Muscle Pain – Low serotonin levels can increase pain perception, leading to chronic muscle pain [7].
12. Appetite Changes – Serotonin impacts appetite control, so its deficiency can cause either increased or decreased appetite [7].
13. Compulsive Behaviors – Low dopamine levels can lead to compulsive behaviors as one seeks out activities that increase dopamine production [8].
14. Social Withdrawal – A lack of dopamine can reduce motivation for social interaction, leading to social withdrawal [8].
15. Feelings of Hopelessness – Low serotonin levels can contribute to a pervasive sense of hopelessness and despair [7].

*These symptoms can vary widely in their severity and combinations, and having one or more of them doesn’t necessarily point directly to a neurotransmitter deficiency. Only functional testing can determine neurotransmitter levels and patterns.

Diet + Enzymes + Probiotics = Happy Gut/Mind

Understanding the role of gut bacteria in neurotransmitter production opens new avenues for treating mental health disorders. By modifying one’s diet or using specific probiotics, enzymes, and acids, it might be possible to alter gut flora in ways that enhance the production of beneficial neurotransmitters, thus potentially improving mental health outcomes [10].

This connection underscores the importance of maintaining a healthy gut microbiota as part of an overall strategy for safeguarding mental wellness [11]. This remarkable ability of gut bacteria to impact brain chemistry not only highlights the complexity of the human body but also emphasizes the profound impact of diet and lifestyle on our overall health [12].

Harvest Happiness: The Weed, Seed, and Feed Approach

Keeping your gut healthy is crucial for your overall well-being, both mentally and physically. A straightforward way to think about improving your gut health is the “Weed, Seed, and Feed” strategy. Let’s break down this approach using specific products, including a new addition called Biofilm ProBalance, to make it easier to understand.

Remove Biofilms: Break Down the Bad Bacteria Defense
The goal is to remove the biofilm that protects the bad bacteria. Biofilm ProBalance is a brand new product that contains a mix of specialized probiotics and enzymes that break down biofilms and help maintain a balanced environment in your gut [13]. Biofilm ProBalance helps manage yeast and other elements that can disrupt your gut’s health. It includes special ingredients like organic kale and garlic, which support a healthy gut environment. It’s particularly good at dealing with biofilms, which are like barriers that protect bad bacteria, making it easier for the good bacteria to thrive [13].

Weeding: Clear Out the Bad Stuff
The goal is to rid of foods and bacteria in your gut that can cause problems. This means cutting back on things like sugars and grains which can feed the bad bacteria. A product to use is MediHerb’s Gut Flora Complex, which contains herbs like Oregano and Golden Seal, which help reduce the bad bacteria in your gut. The capsules are designed to work in your intestines, not your stomach, which means they’re gentle and effective [14].

Seeding and Feeding: Add the Good Bacteria
Your goal is to introduce healthy bacteria to your gut to help balance your digestive system. We recommend Standard Process’ Prosynbiotic, a blend of good bacteria that helps keep your gut in balance. Adding these good bacteria is like planting seeds in a garden—they help everything work better [15].

How to Use These Products in a 20-Day Cycle:

To see the best results, you might consider following this plan in cycles of 20 days, repeating it a few times:

• Days 1-10 (Biofilm and Weeding Phase): Take Standard Process’ Biofilm ProBalance with MediHerb’s Gut Flora Complex twice a day to break down the biofilm and to reduce bad bacteria [13, 14].
• Days 11-20 (Seeding and Feeding Phase): Switch to taking Standard Process’ Prosynbiotic twice a day to add beneficial bacteria [15].
• Digestive Support: Add Standard Process’ Multizyme to your routine. Take during the entire time. This provides protein, carbohydrate and fat enzymes to fully digest your food.

Dietary Strategies for a Healthy Gut

Introduction to Lactofermented Foods
Lactofermented foods are a fantastic way to introduce beneficial bacteria into your diet. These foods are created through a natural fermentation process where lactic acid bacteria convert sugars into lactic acid, preserving the food and enriching it with probiotics. Some popular examples include sauerkraut, kimchi, and yogurt. These foods not only add a delicious tangy flavor to your meals but also help populate your gut with beneficial bacteria that support digestion and boost your immune system [17].

Foods High in Inulin and Bacteria-Friendly Fiber
Inulin is a type of soluble fiber found in many plants that acts as a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria in your gut. Foods high in inulin include chicory root, Jerusalem artichokes, garlic, onions, and bananas. Including these foods in your diet can help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, promoting better digestion and overall gut health [18]. Additionally, foods rich in other types of fiber, such as whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables, support the growth of beneficial bacteria by providing them with the nutrients they need to thrive [19].

Low Sugar and Processed Grains
Reducing your intake of sugar and processed grains is crucial for maintaining a healthy gut. High sugar diets can feed harmful bacteria and yeast in the gut, disrupting the balance of your microbiota. Processed grains, which have been stripped of their fiber and nutrients, can contribute to inflammation and poor gut health. Instead, focus on whole grains like oats, quinoa, and brown rice, which are rich in fiber and nutrients that support a healthy gut environment [20].ConclusionThe connection between your gut and your brain is powerful and complex, with your gut bacteria playing a pivotal role in influencing your overall health. By focusing on strategies that support a healthy gut microbiome, you can enhance not only your digestive health but also your mental well-being. This holistic approach is essential for maintaining the optimal functioning of the gut-brain axis and fostering a healthier, happier life [25].

Conclusion

The connection between your gut and your brain is powerful and complex, with your gut bacteria playing a pivotal role in influencing your overall health. By focusing on strategies that support a healthy gut microbiome, you can enhance not only your digestive health but also your mental well-being. This holistic approach is essential for maintaining the optimal functioning of the gut-brain axis and fostering a healthier, happier life [25].

References
Kim, Y. K., & Shin, C. (2018). The Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis in Neuropsychiatric Disorders: Pathophysiological Mechanisms and Novel Treatments. Current Neuropharmacology, 16(5), 559-573.
Cryan, J. F., & Dinan, T. G. (2012). Mind-altering microorganisms: the impact of the gut microbiota on brain and behaviour. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 13(10), 701-712.
Yano, J. M., Yu, K., Donaldson, G. P., Shastri, G. G., Ann, P., Ma, L., … & Hsiao, E. Y. (2015). Indigenous bacteria from the gut microbiota regulate host serotonin biosynthesis. Cell, 161(2), 264-276.
Matsumoto, M., Kibe, R., Ooga, T., Aiba, Y., Sawaki, E., Koga, Y., & Benno, Y. (2013). Impact of intestinal microbiota on intestinal luminal metabolome. Scientific Reports, 3, 2108.
Barrett, E., Ross, R. P., O’Toole, P. W., Fitzgerald, G. F., & Stanton, C. (2012). γ-Aminobutyric acid production by culturable bacteria from the human intestine. Journal of Applied Microbiology, 113(2), 411-417.
Bravo, J. A., Forsythe, P., Chew, M. V., Escaravage, E., Savignac, H. M., Dinan, T. G., … & Cryan, J. F. (2011). Ingestion of Lactobacillus strain regulates emotional behavior and central GABA receptor expression in a mouse via the vagus nerve. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 108(38), 16050-16055.
Young, S. N. (2007). How to increase serotonin in the human brain without drugs. Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience, 32(6), 394-399.
Swanson, L. W. (2012). Brain Architecture: Understanding the Basic Plan. Oxford University Press.
Möhler, H. (2012). The GABA system in anxiety and depression and its therapeutic potential. Neuropharmacology, 62(1), 42-53.
Foster, J. A., Rinaman, L., & Cryan, J. F. (2017). Stress & the gut-brain axis: Regulation by the microbiome. Neurobiology of Stress, 7, 124-136.
Maes, M., Kubera, M., Leunis, J. C., & Berk, M. (2012). Increased IgA and IgM responses against gut commensals in chronic depression: further evidence for increased bacterial translocation or leaky gut. Journal of Affective Disorders, 141(1), 55-62.
Mayer, E. A. (2011). Gut feelings: the emerging biology of gut-brain communication. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 12(8), 453-466.
D’Hoe, K., Conterno, L., Fava, F., Falony, G., Vieira-Silva, S., Vermeiren, J., … & Raes, J. (2018). Prebiotic wheat bran fractions induce specific microbiota changes. Frontiers in Microbiology, 9, 31.
Paineau, D., Carcano, D., Leyer, G., Darquy, S., Alyanakian, M. A., Simoneau, G., … & Legrand, A. (2008). Effects of seven potential probiotics on metabolic endotoxemia: a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial in overweight and obese adults. Nutrition & Metabolism, 5(1), 1-10.
Salminen, S., & Isolauri, E. (2006). Intestinal colonization, microbiota, and probiotics. The Journal of Pediatrics, 149(3), S115-S120.
Slavin, J. (2013). Fiber and prebiotics: mechanisms and health benefits. Nutrients, 5(4), 1417-1435.
Marco, M. L., Heeney, D., Binda, S., Cifelli, C. J., Cotter, P. D., Foligné, B., … & Hutkins, R. (2017). Health benefits of fermented foods: microbiota and beyond. Current Opinion in Biotechnology, 44, 94-102.
Roberfroid, M. (2007). Prebiotics: the concept revisited. The Journal of Nutrition, 137(3), 830S-837S.
Sonnenburg, J. L., & Bäckhed, F. (2016). Diet-microbiota interactions as moderators of human metabolism. Nature, 535(7610), 56-64.
Blaut, M. (2015). Gut microbiota and energy balance: role in obesity. Proceedings of the Nutrition Society, 74(3), 227-234.
Gaisl, T., Haile, S. R., Thiel, S., Bratton, D. J., Kohler, M., & Bloch, K. E. (2019). Efficacy of pharmacotherapy for OSA in adults: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. Sleep Medicine Reviews, 43, 1-21.
Lundberg, J. O., Weitzberg, E., & Gladwin, M. T. (2008). The nitrate–nitrite–nitric oxide pathway in physiology and therapeutics. Nature Reviews Drug Discovery, 7(2), 156-167.
Thayer, J. F., & Lane, R. D. (2007). The role of vagal function in the risk for cardiovascular disease and mortality. Biological Psychology, 74(2), 224-242.
Zaccaro, A., Piarulli, A., Laurino, M., Menicucci, D., Garbella, E., Manzoni, D., … & Gemignani, A. (2018). How breath-control can change your life: a systematic review on psychophysiological correlates of slow breathing. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 12, 353.
Mayer, E. A., Savidge, T., & Shulman, R. J. (2014). Brain–gut microbiome interactions and functional bowel disorders. Gastroenterology, 146(6), 1500-1512.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this email article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The contents of this article should not be used to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease or condition. Before starting any new dietary supplement or making significant changes to your health and wellness routine, please consult with a healthcare professional.

The views and nutritional advice expressed in this email are not meant to be a substitute for conventional medical service, and any use of the mentioned supplements should be discussed with your physician or another licensed healthcare provider. All readers of this content, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their doctors before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program.

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