The intestinal microbiome is a complex signalling hub that incorporates environmental factors, such as diet, stress and xenobiotics, with genetics and immune signals to influence host immunity and response to infection.[1-3] Within the last decade, we have begun to understand the importance of this interdependent bilateral interaction between the host and its microbiota and how its mutually beneficial balance is crucial in host defence and immune health.[1]
Healthy hormone balance and general fitness and wellbeing are essential to male health, and underpin a healthy reproductive function as well as fertility, stamina, vitality, optimal libido and a healthy sexual function.
A 2014 study published in The Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health concluded that middle-aged men are more likely to experience premature death due to worrying and frequent arguing with partners, relatives, friends and neighbours. The study, which sampled nearly 10,000 men and women, showed that men who experienced frequent stressful social situations such as worries and demands from their spouses and children had a 50-100% increased mortality risk.[1]
You've heard his voice on over 250 episodes of the podcast, but who really is Andrew Whitfield-Cook. Tammy Guest turns the table on our host and the two of them dived deep into some amazing topics that sometimes create a divide between the profession and the industry of natural health, as well as the inspiring respect he has for his team and what can be created from true collaboration.
Ensuring adequate intake of a broad range of vitamins and minerals through a varied diet are important for all aspects of healthcare. However, there are some important nutrients to consider in order to address dietary deficiencies and support men’s health. For example, magnesium, together with zinc and selenium are vitally important for men’s overall health and wellbeing and are an integral part of male physiology.[2]
When considering treatment options for male performance support, as practitioners, we automatically think of traditional male tonics such as Tribulus terrestris (tribulus) and Turnera diffusa (damiana). Other herbs we should be considering for supporting male physiology include Panax ginseng (Korean ginseng) and Withania somnifera (withania). This article explores the traditional use of male tonic herbs and provides modern clinical relevance.
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Current data suggests dietary factors hold significant effects on both the innate and the adaptive immune system. While salt appears to promote inflammation in various mechanisms, it seems that consumption of curcumin and spicy food may attenuate immune hyperactivity.