Section summary
Antibiotics are prescription-based drugs used to treat infections or diseases, often caused by bacteria. They can be used prophylactically before or after surgery, working by blocking certain processes in bacteria to help the body fight off the infection. However, antibiotics can be harmful to the body due to side effects like yeast infections, asthma, allergies, and antibiotic resistance. Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern, with 2 million people infected with antibiotic-resistant bacteria annually. It is essential to build immunity and fight infections naturally by supporting the immune system through foundational health practices.
- Sleep and diet are crucial for immune health.
- Limiting sugar intake is beneficial.
- Supporting microbiome and gut health is key.
When it comes to food labeling in America, understanding how to read labels is essential. On food labels, key areas to focus on include the front label, nutritional facts, and ingredients list. Choosing whole foods over highly processed items is recommended. The ingredients list's length, recognition of ingredients, and order of ingredients by quantity are critical factors to consider. Additionally, avoiding added sugars, unhealthy fats, refined grains, chemical additives, and artificial ingredients is important for making healthy choices.
- Look for whole foods: fruits, vegetables, fresh meats, poultry, fish, nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains.
- Avoid added sugars, unhealthy fats, refined grains, and artificial ingredients.
- Pay attention to the order of ingredients in the list.
Choosing organic food whenever possible is recommended to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals, pesticides, and synthetic fertilizers. Organic farming practices are environmentally friendly and promote better health for consumers. Organic foods are fresher, contain fewer pesticides, and do not contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs). It is also beneficial to opt for organic meat and dairy products to avoid antibiotics and hormones commonly found in conventionally raised animals.
- Organic food is fresher, contains fewer pesticides, and avoids GMOs.
- Organic farming practices are better for the environment and human health.
- Organically raised animals are not given antibiotics or growth hormones.
For sustainable seafood consumption, it is important to consider the health benefits and risks associated with different types of fish. Wild-caught fish are generally healthier than farm-raised fish, which can contain toxins, diseases, and artificial additives. When choosing seafood, opt for wild-caught varieties over farm-raised to minimize exposure to harmful chemicals and toxins.
- Wild-caught seafood tends to be higher in nutrients and lower in toxins compared to farm-raised seafood.
- Avoid farm-raised fish like tilapia, catfish, Atlantic salmon, and pre-peeled shrimp.