Actinomycetes are a group of Gram-positive bacteria that occupy an intermediate position between bacteria and fungi. They form branched filamentous structures resembling mold mycelium and are capable of producing spores. While many species of actinomycetes are found in nature and play a role in the decomposition of organic matter, some strains can be pathogenic and pose a health risk when they begin to proliferate in the indoor environment.

Bifidobacteria are one of the key representatives of the normal gut microbiota, playing an important role in maintaining overall health. They colonize the intestines from the first days of life and participate in numerous processes that support digestion, strengthen the immune system, and synthesize essential vitamins.

However, with age and under the influence of various factors, their numbers decrease, leading to microbial imbalance and increasing the risk of various diseases. Understanding the distribution of bifidobacteria in the gut, their functions, and the factors that affect their levels helps maintain microbiome balance and prevent potential health problems.

Microbiome refers to the collection of microorganisms that inhabit not only the gut, but also the skin, respiratory tract, mucous membranes, urogenital system, and even the surrounding environment. The human body contains more microbial cells than human cells: for every human cell, there are about 1.3 microbial cells. The total mass of the microbiome is 1.5–2 kg, and its genes outnumber human genes by a factor of 150.

Food colorings are additives used to give, enhance, or restore the color of food and beverages. They can be either synthetic (artificial) or natural, derived from plants, minerals, or animals.

Manufacturers use colorings to make products more appealing, as bright colors are associated with freshness and quality. They also help compensate for the loss of natural color that occurs during processing, freezing, and storage. Additionally, certain shades create a recognizable image for the product — for example, oranges are dyed to match consumer expectations.

Sugar substitutes are substances used instead of sugar to provide a sweet taste in food and beverages. Their popularity stems from the desire to reduce calorie intake. Artificial and natural sweeteners allow people to enjoy sweetness without extra calories, which is especially appealing to those managing their weight, following a diet, or monitoring their body’s energy balance.

In addition, sugar substitutes help regulate blood glucose levels. People with diabetes often use them to avoid sharp spikes in blood sugar caused by regular sucrose. Some sweeteners have minimal impact on insulin response, making them a convenient alternative for controlling metabolic processes.

Globalization has changed the world, promising to improve people’s lives and benefit all countries. The idea was that each nation would focus on its greatest potential. For example, the U.S. would develop technology, Canada would extract resources, and China would provide labor. Free trade allowed companies to sell goods worldwide without restrictions, and large corporations found ways to move production to countries with cheap labor. This significantly reduced costs and increased profits. Mass production made goods cheaper, flooding markets with inexpensive products — including food.

You’ve probably heard about Ozempic from multiple sources — both influencers and celebrities. This medication has become a hot topic across social media, TV shows, and interviews. Stars often share their weight loss secrets, and Ozempic frequently makes the list.

However, keep in mind the possibility of paid promotion. In show business, name-dropping certain drugs on stage or in media can be part of a well-orchestrated marketing strategy. Companies are willing to pay large sums for such mentions to create the impression that their product is the celebrity choice. This is part of modern reality, where the lines between real experience and advertising can blur.

Traveling is a wonderful opportunity to gain new life experiences, but it can also pose health risks. When in enclosed spaces such as airplanes, or in crowded places like airports, travelers are more likely to encounter infections that spread from person to person.

The events of recent years, associated with the coronavirus pandemic, have shown how quickly diseases can spread around the world. But viruses are only part of the problem. During travel, one may also encounter bacterial infections, which can be just as dangerous. That’s why it is important not only to understand how infections are transmitted, but also to know how to protect yourself.

For effective treatment of dysbiosis, it is crucial to begin with accurate diagnostics. In the first article, we discussed the basic concepts of dysbiosis, its impact on health, and potential causes. Many health conditions may present with similar symptoms but require different treatment approaches. As mentioned earlier, dysbiosis-related issues can be identified using a variety of diagnostic methods. The primary ones are stool analysis and breath tests. Stool analysis can detect the presence of pathogenic bacteria, viruses, and fungi, while breath tests effectively reveal carbohydrate fermentation disorders, which may indicate SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth).

Gut Microbiota is a complex ecosystem of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, that inhabit the human intestinal tract. The number of microbes in the human body is estimated to be around 39 trillion, slightly exceeding the number of human cells. However, their genetic material is much richer and has a profound impact on bodily functions.

The microbiota performs many key functions, such as aiding digestion, synthesizing vitamins, protecting against pathogens, and supporting the immune system. A healthy microbiota is key to maintaining long-term health, whereas imbalances may trigger a wide range of diseases.