Today we recognize the importance of having the right kind of bacteria in our gut. Probiotics are a certain type of bacteria that provides health benefits when eaten. The use of probiotics have been shown to reduce overall symptoms and abdominal pain. Clinical trials showed that probiotics are overall effective treatments for IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). Probiotics may also reduce the amount of H. pylori bacteria in the gut, speeding up the healing process of peptic ulcers. Experts agree that the benefits of probiotics are strain-specific. Speak to your pharmacist to determine which probiotic is right for you.

In addition to decreased mobility, there are other risk factors that can lead to falling: Sensory Deficits; problems with sensation, whether it be with the eyes, ears or feeling in the feet, can increase your risk of falling. Have your eyesight and hearing checked regularly and talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing numbness in your feet. Low Blood Pressure; when we quickly go from lying or sitting to standing, our blood pressure drops, this can interfere with balance, vision and coordination. If you feel dizzy or lightheaded when standing, sit down until your head clears, stand up slowly and ensure you have good footing before taking a step.

Recovery from a brain injury takes a long time. Caregivers need to be prepared for the hard work and long road ahead. Dedicated practice means millions of attempts to change the brain and allow the arm, leg or speech to recover. Be patient and supportive, but don’t do too much. Encourage independence. Don’t let yourself get to the end of your rope and burned out. Find ways to cope. Recognize when you need help and ask for it. Relationships evolve and change after a brain injury. Roles and personalities may change. Talk about it. Focus on the good in your life. Find support.

When someone has moderate hearing loss they will hear relatively well if you are talking to them face to face in a quiet environment. They will not hear well if you are walking away from them, in a different room, or if noise is present. People with hearing loss may be unaware of the extent of it: that’s where loved ones come in. Family members who have grown frustrated with them not being able to hear are the ones to prompt them to get a hearing test. Encourage them to have their hearing tested, you will be doing them and yourself a big favour in the long run.

Are your dentures not as comfortable as they were when you first got them? Maintaining regular checkups with your denturist is essential to keep your dentures in top shape. If your dentures become loose, they can cause irritation that can lead to sores and infection. When your dentures do not fit properly, they can chafe the gums, causing irritation. Tissue irritation can make your dentures so uncomfortable, it’s practically impossible to wear them because of the pain. Always practice good oral hygiene habits like removing your dentures every night and using a soft-bristled brush to brush your gums, tongue, cheeks, and the roof of your mouth.

Stress is a natural part of everyday life. But are you aware that stress is among the number one causes for all kinds of health concerns including sleep deprivation, changes in appetite, illness, anxiety, & depression? One of the greatest ways to combat these stress symptoms is to implement a self-care plan that is done regularly in your life. Self-care strategies are doing activities that you enjoy on a regular basis. Like when a flight attendant does the safety brief and asks you to put on your own oxygen mask first before helping others, it is important to ensure your own health and wellness is a priority.

It is important to remember to take special care of your vital ticker, every day: *Go for a walk and get your heart rate going and enhance your circulation. *Ditch the processed bad fats and eat heart-healthy fats like monounsaturated (olive and avocado) and omega-3s (fish and walnuts). *Eat more colourful fruits and vegetables including extra-beneficial berries and greens, for their strong antioxidants. *Take more deep breaths and manage stress better. *Drink sufficient water and include beneficial teas such as green, white, hawthorn, ginger, and ginseng. *Be kind to yourself and your loved ones!

Communicating effectively with someone experiencing hearing loss can be a challenge. Here are five tips to help: *Understand their level of loss and the unique set of challenges they face *Find a quiet place; create the best conditions for them to understand you *Say it a different way; choose uncomplicated words so it’s easier for them to understand *Make eye contact; Eye contact allows someone to read your expression for context *Get their attention; make sure they know you’re speaking. If you or a family member are concerned about hearing loss, be sure to schedule a hearing test today!