Pollution Increases Autoimmune Disease
Pollution in the environment breaks down the body’s protective epithelial layers and can trigger an inflammatory response
Did you know owning a dog can do wonders for your health? As Dr. Chutkan mentions in her book, The Microbiome Solution, dog ownership and improved microbial health is well-documented. A study conducted in babies showed that infants who live in dog-owning households have more diversified gut bacteria and are less likely to develop allergies. In addition, school-aged children who have a dog possess stronger immune systems and are less likely to suffer from ear infections, asthma, allergies, and respiratory infections.
The health benefits of owning a dog don’t stop in the gut. Two studies recently published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality & Outcomes, showed that owning a dog improved recovery outcomes after a major cardiovascular event and lowered the risk of mortality in the long-term. This isn’t the first study of its kind. There’s a hefty amount of literature supporting the benefits of dog ownership on cardiovascular health. But how? Scientists believe there are many mechanisms at work here. Owning a dog:
1) Increases the likelihood of exercise, time spent outdoors, and social interaction (all characteristics associated with improved health)
2) Reduces stress and lowers stress-related high blood pressure
3) Improves mental health
From the gut to the heart to the mind, owning a dog results in better health outcomes. In fact, those who are over the age of 65 and who own a dog are 30% less likely to seek medical attention than those who don’t. Are you looking for a health-filled Christmas gift for a loved one this year? Maybe a dog is in order. Just be sure the receiving party is on board!
Pollution in the environment breaks down the body’s protective epithelial layers and can trigger an inflammatory response
Researchers found that climate change may detrimentally impact our quest to look younger through its effects on the soil
