It’s believed that up to 17 percent of the population has mast cell activation syndrome, or MCAS for short.

Yet it’s one of the most unrecognized and under-addressed chronic conditions, and until 2016 wasn’t officially recognized as a diagnosis.

Even with its lack of notoriety, MCAS is a trending phenomenon. There are millions of TikTok and other social media videos on the topic, so awareness is increasing. 

What is mast cell activation syndrome, and what can be done about it?

What Are Mast Cells?

A team of infection-fighting white blood cells, mast cells are an important part of the immune system. Mast cells are in almost every tissue of the body, including:

• the skin
• the GI tract
• blood vessels
• nerves
• bones
• the brain
• the lungs
• the eyes
• the ears

What Do Mast Cells Do?

Mast cells are necessary for our survival, protecting us from invading pathogens and harmful substances, and helping with wound repair.

What is Mast Cell Activation Syndrome?

When triggered into an overreaction phase, mast cells mistakenly alert the immune system that something’s off. 

This false alarm causes the body to release high amounts of inflammatory mediators like histamine, as well as other chemicals that trigger the immune system into action. These chemical mediators activate even more mast cells to respond.

Over time, the mast cells start seeing almost everything as a threat.

What Causes MCAS?

Experts aren’t sure why some individuals’ mast cells overreact. While mast cell activation syndrome is not an autoimmune issue, if the immune system becomes overwhelmed and something comes along that pushes it over the edge, mast cell activation syndrome can occur in some people.

Traumatic medical events like surgery, injury, or illness; exposure to insect or reptile venom; medications; stress; and infections can all trigger MCAS.

Certain smells can be a problem too. A walk down the grocery aisle of laundry detergents and cleaning formulas with their synthetic fragrances can trigger a mast cell attack.

Types of MCAS

There are different types of mast cell activation.

• Genetic

  One is associated with genetic conditions that are linked to mastocytosis (a type of rare mast cell disease where the body produces too many mast cells).

• Allergic

  Another type of MCAS is triggered by certain allergies.

• Idiopathic

  A third variety is known as idiopathic mast cell activation syndrome. It has no determinable cause, as it’s not related to other diseases or clear issues.

  Those experiencing this type of MCAS have new triggers that come up and cause reactions.

How Do I Know If I Have MCAS?

Lab tests tend to be inconclusive, since the blood only shows spikes above the baseline for a few hours after an attack. Because of this, levels are tested not only when someone’s having an episode but also when they’re feeling fine.

Diagnosis typically requires that symptoms occur in at least two of the following areas: the skin, the lungs, the GI tract, and the cardiovascular system.

Some practitioners feel that symptoms must be so severe that they resemble anaphylaxis. However, the debate continues on how extreme or consistent symptoms must be in order to be considered part of MCAS.

Speaking of symptoms: one person’s presentation can be completely different from another’s. In fact, medical practitioners often misdiagnose mast cell activation syndrome for other conditions due to the multitude of conditions it causes.

Some professionals feel that MCAS is diagnosed too often.

Symptoms of MCAS

Mast cell activation syndrome symptoms vary from the mild to the rare and life-threatening, including anaphylaxis when swelling, hives, shortness of breath, and vomiting.

In less severe forms of MCAS, symptoms are varied and may include:

• abdominal pain
• brain fog
• chronic gut issues
• constipation
• diarrhea
• excessive drooling
• fatigue
• flushing
• food sensitivities and allergies
• heart palpitations
• increased heart rate
• insomnia
• itching
• joint pain
• lightheadedness
• low blood pressure
• muscle weakness
• numbness
• sensitivity to light or sound
• shortness of breath
• sinus congestion
• skin conditions:
  • rashes
  • rosacea
  • psoriasis
  • eczema
• swelling
• tingling
• tinnitus

It’s important to note that those with MCAS may notice symptoms randomly appearing and disappearing, and they may have difficulty determining the triggers.

What makes mast cell activation syndrome even more confusing is that symptoms can increase, change, and even worsen over time.

Many of the above symptoms can also be linked to other disorders such as postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), IBS, and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS).

MCAS Treatments

There’s currently no cure for MCAS, nor are there any fast fixes. But research is expanding, and those who suffer from its debilitating cluster of symptoms can often find relief.

Mast cell activation syndrome is frequently managed with medications and other treatments.

• Identify and Avoid Triggers

  Trigger avoidance is key to preventing mast cells from overreacting. 

  Track your symptoms with a journal. List the foods you ate and any irritants you were exposed to.

  This can help you determine possible triggers like:

  • pet dander
  • plant pollen
  • bee venom
  • certain foods
  • toxic mold
  • chemical exposure
  • heavy metal exposure

  Nervous system dysregulation, temperature changes, exercise, lack of sleep, and stress can also be triggering.

• Stress Relief

  Practice stress-relieving tactics such as meditation, mindfulness techniques, resting, spending time with friends, and participating in a hobby. Supporting the nervous system can also be profoundly helpful.

• Try Over-the-Counter Meds

  Aspirin can help with flushing. Over-the-counter antihistamine formulas can help rid the body of inflammation.

• Seek Corticosteroids

  Corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and open airways.

• Seek Mast Cell Stabilizers

  Mast cell stabilizers can help regulate overreacting mast cells. When anaphylaxis is a concern, an EpiPen® will be prescribed.

  Keep in mind that if mast cell medications offer symptom relief, it’s a probable sign that you have mast cell activation syndrome.

• Consider Supplements

  • Quercertin for GABA Help

    For supplemental help, consider quercetin. GABA has been shown to inhibit mast cell activation, which can reduce the release of histamine and other pro-inflammatory substances.

  • CoQ10 for Energy

    Consider CoQ10 for mitochondrial and energy support.

The COVID Link

Those experiencing Long COVID have an increase in MCAS and its symptoms.

• Comorbidity

  A published study found an increase in MCAS triggered by SARS-CoV-2. Researchers theorized that increased mast cell activation due to COVID-19 infection may contribute to Long COVID.

• Overlapping Symptoms

  There’s a definite overlap in symptoms experienced in MCAS and Long COVID. In fact, they’re virtually identical, and can include:

  • anxiety
  • depression
  • migraines
  • brain fog
  • fatigue
  • coughing
  • sore throat
  • bloating
  • diarrhea
  • constipation
  • food intolerances
  • chest pain
  • heart palpitations

Precautions

• Seek Medical Advice

  See a doctor if you’re experience new or worsening symptoms to rule out serious issues.

• React to Emergencies

  Severe reactions from MCAS are rare, but if a serious allergy occurs (trouble breathing or swallowing; fast heart rate; swelling of the lips, face, tongue, or throat) call 911 or go to the emergency room.

To keep up with the fast pace of modern life, energy drinks can help by combating fatigue and boosting mental acuity for daily tasks.

Energy drinks are functional beverages packed with ingredients for effects to support alertness, focus, and memory.

Active Ingredients in Energy Drinks

Most, but not all, energy drinks are sweetened with sugar, which provides the body a quick source of energy.

Besides sugar, the most common ingredients in energy drinks include B vitamins, stimulants like caffeine, and botanical extracts like guarana and ginseng.

Naturally derived compounds like citicoline, and amino acids, which modulate energy availability and levels of some neurotransmitters and hormones in the brain, are important contributors to the function of energy drinks.

• Sugars

  Sugars are a quickly accessible source of energy, available rapidly after ingestion.

  Studies in animals suggest that consuming sugars induces a release of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the reward centers of the brain. Sugar also adds viscosity and texture to beverages, making them full-bodied experiences.

• B Vitamins

  B vitamins are implicated in energy production and modulation.

  One or more B vitamins is necessary for all catabolic processes; they work as enzymes or coenzymes in most cellular functions, including the metabolism and transformation of various essential amino acids.

• Caffeine

  Caffeine is a bioactive compound that acts as a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant.

  Since readily crosses the blood-brain barrier and acts on adenosine receptors throughout the body, it produces a sense of wakefulness, increases the speed and magnitude of vascular contractions, and increases respiratory drive.

  With moderation, ingesting caffeine produces a feeling of energetic vitality.

• Guarana and Ginseng

  Naturally derived ingredients like guarana and ginseng are also popular ingredients of energy drinks.

  • Guarana

    Sourced in the Amazon Basin, guarana is a seed extract that contains caffeine, theophylline, and theobromine.

    Theobromine is a caffeine metabolite, and thus has similar effects, while theophylline is a bronchodilator.

  • Ginseng

    Ginseng contains antioxidants that protect cell health and help moderate energy-producing mechanisms in the mitochondria.

    Ginseng may also have mood benefits by acting on neurotransmitters like serotonin and hormones like cortisol.

• Citicoline

  Another ingredient included in energy drinks is CDP-choline or citicoline.

  The naturally occurring compound is critical to the synthesis and maintenance of cell membranes and raises the level of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine in the body.

  A growing body of research indicates citicoline supplementation has a positive effect on attention and cognition.

• Amino Acids

  In addition to sugars and stimulants, energy drinks often include amino acids to support mitochondrial mechanisms.

  • L-carnitine

    L-carnitine, a derivative of the amino acid lysine, facilitates energy production in the mitochondria by helping transport fatty acids there.

  • L-tyrosine

    L-tyrosine and its precursor phenylalanine are components in the synthesis of adrenaline, epinephrine, and dopamine, and counteract the impairments of stress.

  • Taurine

    Taurine assists multiple actions within cells including energy production, fluid balancing, and cytoprotective activities.

Conclusion

Because of the complex harmony of these ingredients, energy drinks are able to support the focus and attention goals of individuals, whether they’re facing an early morning presentation, an all-nighter studying, or an intense session of fitness training, gaming, or sports.

Understanding the way energy drink ingredients work together in a formulation is key to choosing a product that will be effective for the task at hand.

Unlocking the secrets of youth has long been associated with drastic lifestyle alterations. Despite the inability to alter genetics or DNA, the quest for youthful cells has centered around avoiding aging environmental factors like sun exposure, pollution, and smoking, while embracing a health-conscious diet, intermittent fasting, and daily exercise.

However, recent studies focused on healthy adult males ages 50 to 72 suggest that while these efforts can reduce biological age, the effects are minimal, shaving off only about two years after a year of dedicated lifestyle modifications.

The pursuit of youth, it seems, demands considerable effort for modest rewards. Fortunately, recent scientific breakthroughs offer exciting new avenues to extend our years of vibrant and healthy living.

Discover Your Biological Age: A Key to Longevity

Chronological age reflects the number of years you’ve lived according to the calendar. It’s a straightforward calculation. Determining your biological age involves a more intricate process. It’s a measure of how efficiently your cells are functioning.

The goal is to have your cellular and biological functions performing at a younger age. So, how do we measure this elusive biological age?

To truly understand your longevity potential, it’s essential to look beyond your chronological age and explore your biological age. This measurement reflects how your cells are functioning, indicating your overall health and potential lifespan.

Testing your biological age requires a specific approach, such as using an at-home saliva-based DNA methylation test. This test provides valuable insights into your cellular health and can guide you on your journey to a longer, healthier life.

New Data Unveils: Simplify for Success

In a bustling wellness industry filled with promises of longevity, recent data from TruMe Labs shines a light on which compounds deliver on their claims to reduce biological age. With a comprehensive dataset encompassing thousands of compounds, including the popular Metformin, resveratrol, nicotinamide riboside (NR), and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), this research reveals that less is more when it comes to longevity supplements. 

Proving to be the most effective from the data analysis on age reversal is Rejuvant, a patented dietary supplement utilizing time-released Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate (CaAKG). A groundbreaking study published in Aging showed an average reduction of eight years in biological age among participants who took Rejuvant for 7 to 8 months, and this new data from TruMe Labs validates these results. 

CaAKG: The Anti-Aging Powerhouse

CaAKG, a compound critical for cellular metabolism and energy production, supports cellular health, antioxidant production, and collagen synthesis, essential for maintaining skin elasticity and joint health as we age. However, the study data revealed that it is crucial to choose a time-released format of CaAKG, ensuring optimal absorption and effectiveness in reducing biological age.

Prioritize Lifestyle Choices for Longevity

While supplements play a role, lifestyle choices are paramount for healthy aging. Regular exercise, a balanced nutrition plan, adequate sleep, stress management, and social connections are key aspects of a holistic approach to longevity. By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can age in good health and enjoy a higher quality of life for years to come.

As we navigate the journey of aging, incorporating scientifically proven strategies into our lives can unlock the secrets to a longer, healthier life. While traditional practices remain fundamental, innovative solutions offer exciting opportunities to reduce biological age and age gracefully with vitality and vigor

Mental energy is a critical component of health and wellness.

Energy Drinks Survey

According to a survey by Kyowa Hakko of more than 500 U.S. consumers, 85% said mental energy is important to their quality of life.

Indeed, feelings of sluggishness or lack of energy are key reasons many consumers reach for support via energy supplements and energy drinks.

Likelihood to Purchase

• Two-out-of-five consumers we surveyed said they are “very likely” to purchase an energy drink in the next three months.
• Another 23% said they are somewhat likely to do so.

However, when it comes to energy drinks on the market:

• Only 67% are satisfied with the options currently available.

Unwanted Effects

Many consumers noted concerns about using beverages or supplementation to improve energy:

• Concerns include worries about experiencing restlessness or an energy crash that comes later.
• Nearly 39% said they are “very concerned” about sleep loss while using energy drinks and supplements.
• Similarly, 35% are very concerned about feelings of anxiety.

Conclusion

The survey findings point to these concerns as a stumbling block to consumers trying energy drinks.

Therefore, there are significant growth opportunities for beverage applications that can provide energy benefits without the jitters.

Citicoline

Citicoline, a naturally occurring substance found in all human cells, is a nutrient that supports healthy mitochondria, the cellular source of the brain’s energy. By supplying brain cells with necessary nutrition, citicoline can help a person stay focused and attentive.

In fact, several clinical studies support the cognitive enhancement and neuroprotective properties of citicoline supplementation.

Cognizin® Citicoline

Cognizin® is a branded form of citicoline specially formulated for food, beverage, and supplement applications.

Among numerous possible benefits, Cognizin® Citicoline has been studied in regard to its support for mental focus, attention, memory, and overall cognitive health.

Studies

• Memory

  For example, one study showed Cognizin® Citicoline improved memory performance in elderly subjects and was concluded to be useful in treating age-related memory deficits.

• Attention and Motor Speed

  In another study, adolescent males who were provided with Cognizin® Citicoline supplementation showed improved attention and motor speed and reduced impulsivity compared to those who received a placebo.

• Brain Activity

  In yet another study, researchers observed increased brain activity in middle-aged adults who had been provided with Cognizin® Citicoline supplementation for six weeks.

Formulation

Furthermore, Cognizin® Citicoline is an allergen-free, vegetarian, kosher nootropic ingredient, and generally regarded as safe (self-affirmed GRAS since 2009).

The purity and stability of Cognizin® Citicoline is backed by the industry-leading manufacturing quality standards of Kyowa Hakko. Kyowa’s proprietary fermentation process ensures the highest quality, efficacy, and consistency in production.

The amino acid fermentation experts at Kyowa work hard to make sure Cognizin® Citicoline easily integrates into food and beverage applications with no effect on taste or texture.

By formulating with Cognizin® Citicoline, food and beverage brands can take advantage of a natural cognitive health ingredient that is backed by science.

Further Reading

Visit the Cognizin® website to learn more about the cognitive benefits of citicoline supplementation.

Known as a rejuvenating herb in Ayurvedic medicine, shilajit has been popular for thousands of years in India. Today it’s gaining attention for its many health benefits.

What Is Shilajit?

Shilajit is fossilized plant remains found mostly in rock cracks. Sourced from the Himalayas but also from Russia, Afghanistan, Tibet, and Chile, shilajit forms from microbial matter and the gradual decomposition of plants over hundreds and sometimes thousands of years.

What's in Shilajit?

Brownish-black in color and hard and rock-like or sticky and tar-like, depending on its surrounding temperature and environment, shilajit is comprised mostly of humic substances (compounds formed during long-term decomposition).

• Fulvic Acid

  One of these substances is fulvic acid—a nutraceutical acting as an anti-inflammatory compound and antioxidant along with the humic acids.

• Nitric Oxide

  Shilajit’s thought to work by increasing the body’s levels of nitric oxide, a molecule that regulates inflammation, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels.

• Trace Minerals

  • calcium
  • potassium
  • magnesium

• Other Nutrients

  • sterols
  • terpenoids
  • flavonoids

What is Shilajit Used For?

Traditionally it was used by people in northern India and Nepal.

Sherpas, long known to have impressive longevity and strength, claimed to consume it as part of their diets.

For centuries, shilajit’s been used for:

• digestive disorders
• nervous issues
• anemia
• chronic bronchitis
• jaundice
• male infertility
• overall wellness

Shilajit’s Potential Benefits

• Body

  • Increased energy levels and physical stamina by supporting mitochondria—the cells’ energy powerhouses.
  • Bone health: Shilajit is a source of phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium and may also support collagen production.

• Mind

  • Improved cognitive functioning and reduced inflammation in the brain.
  • Lessened irritability, a calmer mind, and a reduction of anxiety due to shilajit’s anti-depressant properties.

• Aging

  • Slowing of the aging process.
  • Help with cognitive issues, libido, and testosterone levels.

• Heart / Blood

  • Reduced heart disease risk due to shilajit’s antioxidant properties that slow aging, reduce cholesterol, and improve cell health.
  • increased hemoglobin production to help with iron-deficiency anemia.
  • Increased levels of glutathione—an antioxidant beneficial to the heart.

• Gut

  • Reduced growth of the harmful bacteria Helicobacter pylori in the gut.
  • relief from stomach pain, flatulence, and constipation while supporting the health of the colon.

Clinical Studies

While there has not been a lot of research on shilajit to date:

• One study found that those who took it had a decrease in cholesterol and triglyceride levels compared to those who took a placebo.
• Another study reported that shilajit lessened chronic fatigue syndrome symptoms, since it reduced mental and physical stress.

Tips for Buying Shilajit

• What to Look For

  Some believe the benefits of shilajit vary depending on where it’s extracted. The Himalayan variety is considered to be the most authentic and “real” version, but purity is the most important consideration.

  Purified, ready-to-consume products are essential when purchasing shilajit, as some items can be contaminated with heavy metals. Ensure the shilajit is tested for contaminants by an independent lab and is certified safe.

  Shilajit should not be consumed in its unpurified and unprocessed form, as it can be toxic with possible chemical and physical impurities.

• Choosing a Form

  Available in tablets, capsules, powders, or resin, many prefer the powdered version as it can be easily added to smoothies, purified (not tap) water, or other beverages.

  Powdered varieties allow for dosage customization. However, they may have a slightly lower amount of active compounds due to processing.

• Storage

  Shilajit can be stored at room temperature. On hot days, it may melt. Shilajit can also be refrigerated and will soften when returned to room temp.

How to Take Shilajit

• Start Slowly

  When taking shilajit, start slowly with a lower dose. Increase gradually, as needed, to help the body adjust and to reduce possible side effects.

• Eat Before Taking

  Take shilajit with food to prevent an upset stomach.

• Keep Taking It

  To experience its full benefits, take for at least three to six months.

Precautions

Experts believe it’s fine to consume shilajit on a regular basis, but it’s recommended to speak with a medical professional before routine intake to ensure it’s appropriate for your health needs.

Children and pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid shilajit due to a lack of safety information on it for these individuals.

• Possible Side Effects of Shilajit

  • Side effects of shilajit can include diarrhea, vomiting, skin rash, and upset stomach, particularly when taken in large doses.

  • As shilajit can cause energy bursts, it’s best to take it in the morning or earlier in the day.

• Medical Interactions

  • Shilajit can be taken with vitamins and other herbal supplements, but avoid supplementation within 2 hours of prescription medications as it may enhance their effects.
  • Note that shilajit can interact with certain medicines such as blood thinners and diabetes medications.

Managing immune-compromising illnesses such as Lyme disease or long COVID-19 can be frustrating.

I personally struggle with both illnesses and have found that implementing a well-structured daily schedule can make a significant difference in improving quality of life.

Getting plenty of sleep, practicing yoga and meditation are important, however here are three lesser-known strategies worth adding to your fatigue-reduction plan.

Three Lesser-Known Fatigue Reduction Strategies

By adding these lesser-known fatigue-reducing strategies into your daily schedule, you can better manage the impact of immune-compromising illnesses on your energy levels.

• Embrace an Anti-Inflammatory Diet with Mushroom Supplementation

  As a holistic nutritionist, I have to emphasize the importance of embracing an anti-inflammatory diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These foods provide essential nutrients and antioxidants that can combat inflammation and reduce fatigue.

  Go a step further and incorporate mushroom supplements, known for their immune-boosting and fatigue-fighting properties. Avoid eating raw mushrooms, if you have Lyme disease or sensitivities to mold.

  I use a Shiitake-derived mushroom ingredient called AHCC found in a variety of mushroom supplements that has 30+ human clinical studies and has been clinically studied on Lyme disease and COVID-19. 

• Practice Dry Brushing for Lymphatic Drainage

  Dry brushing is a technique that involves using a natural bristle brush to gently massage the skin in circular motions to stimulate the lymphatic system, aiding in the removal of toxins and waste products from the body.

  I practice dry brushing in the shower and try to alternate first with hot water followed by a minute of cold.

  Dry brushes are inexpensive and a huge benefit in reducing inflammation and boosting energy levels. 

• Improve Circulation and Energy Levels with Compression Therapy

  Compression therapy helps enhance blood circulation, reduce swelling, and alleviate fatigue, through the use of specially designed garments that apply gentle pressure to the limbs.

  Compression boots work the best for me, and I spend about 30-40 minutes in them each morning.

  By promoting better blood flow, compression garments improve oxygenation and nutrient delivery to tissues while aiding in removal of metabolic waste.

Make adjustments as needed and prioritize sleep. With a well-structured schedule, you can optimize energy levels and embark on a path towards improved health and vitality.

Fatigue is one of the most common medical complaints. In addition to increasing risks for accidents, it negatively impacts physical and mental health, relationships and reduces overall quality of life.

A Study on Dr. Ohhira's Probiotics

Essential Formulas is happy to announce the publication of a new study which reported that people taking Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotics daily for 12 weeks experienced a reduction in fatigue.

Study Design

This was a 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. 40 healthy men and women between the ages of 40-59 were randomly divided into two groups:

• One group took three capsules of Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotics once daily for 12 weeks.
• The other group took three capsules of an identical-looking placebo for 12 weeks.

People with significant health problems were excluded from this study.

How Was Fatigue Measured?

The following two independent methods were used to measure levels of fatigue in this clinical trial:

• Visual Analog Scale (VAS)

  This scale consists of a horizontal line 10 centimeters (3.94 inches) long. Participants are asked to place an ‘x’ on the line that represents their level of fatigue over the past 7 days (left side = low fatigue, right side = high fatigue). Placement of the ‘x’ is then converted into a numerical score. Higher score corresponds with higher fatigue.

• Chalder Fatigue Scale (CFS)

  This is a questionnaire consisting of 14 questions relating to different aspects of physical and mental fatigue. The rating goes from 1 (no fatigue) to 4 (high level of fatigue). The higher the total score, the higher the overall level of fatigue.

Results

All participants consuming Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotics registered significant reductions in fatigue on both the Visual Analog Scale and the Chalder Fatigue Scale. This provides very strong scientific validation showing that taking Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotics (3 a day for 12 weeks) lowers levels of fatigue and increases energy in healthy adults.

Explanation / Mechanism of Action

Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotics is produced by fermenting a wide range of plant-based foods with lactic acid bacteria (LAB) for several years. The resulting product contains over 500 postbiotic metabolites such as antioxidants, short-chain fatty acids, organic acids, vitamins, polyphenols, carotenoids, etc.

It is well known that increased levels of free radicals can damage mitochondria. This in turn reduces the production of cellular energy (ATP), which results in higher levels of mental and physical exhaustion and fatigue.

The antioxidant activity provided by the ingredients in Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotics, especially the antioxidant activity of various postbiotic metabolites, and polyphenols, provides an explanation for the finding of reduced levels of fatigue in this recently published human clinical trial.

Exclusion Criteria

It is important to emphasize that only healthy individuals were allowed to participate in this clinical trial. People with any type of illness were excluded. Other criteria for exclusion included anyone with a food or drug allergy, a history of alcohol or drug dependence, smokers, women who are using hormone replacement therapy and women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during the study.

ALL healthy participants taking Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotics gained significant reductions in fatigue. Although it has not been tested, we might assume that people with health problems might gain even greater reductions in fatigue and improvements in energy levels when taking Dr Ohhira’s Probiotics.

Conclusion

The study reviewed in this article along with dozens of earlier studies collectively make a strong statement about the benefits from taking Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotics. The postbiotic metabolites in Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotics help reduce inflammation, increase antioxidant activity, and enhance immune function. All of these benefits help contribute to healthy longevity and a better quality of life.

If you are exhausted, have joint or muscle pain, memory issues, and headaches, and/or suffer from an “atypical” condition—you might have Lyme disease, a master of disguises.

Countless patients see me after years of illness without an accurate diagnosis. Once we reach a Lyme disease diagnosis, they begin to get their life back.

Symptoms of Lyme Disease

In the 1970s, some children in Lyme, CT, developed symptoms of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Researchers discovered that black-legged ticks carrying Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria had bitten the children, causing what came to be known as Lyme disease.

• Early Symptoms

  Early on, Lyme disease resembles the flu, with signs and symptoms that can include:

  • Rash (erythema migrans)
  • Headaches
  • Sore throat
  • Chills
  • Fever
  • Fatigue
  • Stiff neck
  • Swollen lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy)

• Late Stage Symptoms

  If incorrectly diagnosed and treated, Lyme-disease-causing bacteria affect other body systems with signs and symptoms including:

  • Chronic fatigue
  • Muscle aches
  • Joint pain and/or swelling
  • Neurological issues
  • Paresthesias (pins-and-needle sensations, burning, itching
  • Memory issues
  • Lightheadedness
  • Fainting
  • Pain that disrupts sleep
  • Gastrointestinal upset
  • Chest pain or palpitations
  • Headaches
  • Visual disturbances
  • Light/sound sensitivity
  • Anxiety
  • Depression

Lyme Disease Diagnosis

An accurate diagnosis challenges doctors because patients can have Lyme disease along with multiple sclerosis, ALS, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, depression, heart problems, arthritis, neurological disease, and more.

• Diagnosis Challenges

  When diagnosing Lyme disease, most doctors look for the “bulls-eye rash”—called the erythema migrans (EM) rash, with concentric rings surrounding a red center—but only 70 to 80 percent of patients develop it.

  An EM rash or multiple EM rashes can appear up to 30 days after a tick bite, but most commonly at seven days. This warm-to-touch rash grows up to 12 inches and is usually not painful or itchy.

  Even when there is a rash, some doctors don’t suspect Lyme. I have heard from patients with tick bites told by their doctor, “Lyme disease does not exist in California,” for example. Left untreated, they developed an unexplained chronic illness.

• Testing Process

  A Lyme diagnosis should not entirely rely on lab testing. Available testing methods have high false-negative and low sensitivity rates, as Lyme bacteria evade the immune system and are immunosuppressive.

  The CDC recommends a two-step testing process. The first test, an ELISA test, looks for antibodies against Lyme. If positive, a Western Blot test is run, looking for IgM and IgG antibodies against antigens associated with Borrelia burgdorferi.

• Lyme-Literate Medical Professionals

  If you have symptoms, live in an endemic area, and recall a tick bite, yet have negative results, I recommend seeing a Lyme-literate doctor, found through the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS).

  They are trained to recognize, test, and rule in or out Lyme disease and co-infections like anaplasma, ehrlichia, babesia, or bartonella.

  A Lyme-literate doctor combines conventional and natural medicine. Integrative medicines support damaged tissue, help modulate the immune system, and maximize detoxification pathways for more effective healing.

Treating Chronic Lyme Disease

Chronic Lyme disease treatment includes:

• Long-term antibiotics
• Herbal medicines
• IV therapies
• Counseling
• Immune supportive therapies
• Diet changes
• Lifestyle modifications such as stress reduction and meditation

Antibiotics are effective in early stages, taking two to six weeks of treatment. For chronic Lyme disease, or post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome, where symptoms have been chronically or intermittently present for six months or more, treatment can take six months to two years or more.

Healing After Lyme Disease

Many patients experience a “two-step forward, one-step backward” progression: some symptoms improve, while others worsen or new ones appear.

Some may develop a Herxheimer reaction, a “die-off” of the Lyme organism causing inflammation. With treatment modifications, the reaction reduces and symptoms improve.

Lyme disease causes psycho-emotional, social, financial, and physical stress, so support from family, friends, and community helps patients persevere. My Lyme patients teach me most about perseverance, courage, and trust through this journey.

Lyme is a very insidious and poorly understood illness that we as doctors are still learning about on a daily basis.