Probiotic, prebiotic, synbiotic: What’s the difference?

Confusing? It won’t be after this.

The term, “probiotic” (meaning “for life”) was coined in the 1960’s, although the concept was introduced early in the 20th century. Probiotics are “good” bacteria that normally live in the intestines. They are found in foods such as yogurt, and in dietary supplements. Examples are Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium. The beneficial effects of probiotics are achieved by changing the microflora (numbers and types of bacteria) within the intestines.

Continue reading Probiotic, prebiotic, synbiotic: What’s the difference?

Inositol to treat anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorder

Several nutritional supplements are purported to treat anxiety. However, only inositol has evidence of superiority vs placebo and comparability with the SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) fluvoxamine (Luvox; not available in the US).

That’s the conclusion from Dr. Sy Atezaz Saeed and 2 coauthors from East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina. Continue reading Inositol to treat anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorder