Why Antibiotics Aren't Always Better for Health
By Genevieve Cunningham
Antibiotics are nothing short of a modern day miracle. Years and years ago, a simple infection might lead to a serious disability or even death. But in today’s world, we can head down to the doctor’s office for a quick and easy antibiotic. While it’s easy to see the incredible benefits provided by these modern day drugs, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. In fact, even though these drugs are helpful and can solve a ton of problems in life, they’re not always the answer. Sometimes it’s better to steer clear. Before you ask the doctor for your next prescription, take a look at these reasons why antibiotics aren’t always the answer, followed by some alternatives for staying well.
Germs Can Become Resistant
One of the scariest things about various germs and illnesses is that they can morph and change over time. The more often we take antibiotics, the more likely these germs are to become antibiotic resistant. This means that the drugs no longer work, and the illness is able to run rampant in our bodies. While this sometimes happen for reasons out of our control, being moderate in our antibiotic use is a great place to start.
Antibiotics Can Destroy Your Gut
Antibiotics are made to kill bad bacteria in the body. But the problem is that the medicine can’t distinguish between good and bad bacteria. It just kills all of it. This often leads to an imbalance of good and bad bacteria in the gut, which then weakens the immune system and makes you susceptible to various infections. If you must take antibiotics, talk to your doctor about following it up with a healthy probiotic as well.
Alternatives to Keep You Healthy
It’s true that we sometimes need to take an antibiotic, and that’s OK. But if you can fight it off on your own from time to time, that may be better. In order to keep yourself healthier in a more natural way, these tips might help:
-
Hygiene habits - Sometimes the best way to stay well is to avoid illness completely. Make sure that hand washing, cleaning, bathing, and teeth brushing are all part of your normal daily habits. The more germs you can avoid, the healthier you can keep your body.
-
Natural antibiotics - Sometimes the prescription antibiotics are needed. But in mild, everyday cases, you can consume natural antibiotics to help you stay well. Eat plenty of garlic and onion, and support your gut with probiotics through yogurt.
We’re all grateful for the conveniences of modern medicine. We’re so glad to have antibiotics, creams, and various solutions to keep us well. But just like anything else in life, moderation is key. Make a plan with your doctor to keep you healthy and strong, and be preventative and proactive for the best health for the rest of your life.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Castle Rock, Colo.