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Catch of the Day: Hypnosis, Fibromyalgia, IBD, Gut Microbiota, Aging




Hypnosis as a Tool for Managing Fibromyalgia Pain
"Harnessing Hypnosis: A Promising Approach to Tackle Fibromyalgia Pain"

Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a complex condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and emotional challenges.

The exact cause of FMS is not fully understood, but there's evidence suggesting a link between childhood/adulthood abuse or neglect and its development.

Treating FMS can be difficult due to its resistance to most treatments.

However, a recent review suggests that hypnotherapy, a psychological intervention, could be effective in managing FMS pain.

This technique aims to reduce pain, fatigue, sleep problems, anxiety, and depression by using hypnosis to address emotional conflicts and unresolved traumas associated with FMS.

This non-invasive approach might offer relief to those struggling with fibromyalgia.

De Benedittis G. The Challenge of Fibromyalgia Efficacy of Hypnosis in Alleviating the Invisible Pain: A Narrative Review. Int J Clin Exp Hypn. 2023 Aug 23:1-21. doi: 10.1080/00207144.2023.2247443. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 37611143.



Micronutrient Deficiencies and Inflammatory Bowel Disease Outcomes 
"Balancing Nutrients: How Micronutrients Impact Inflammatory Bowel Disease"

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic condition affecting the gut.

A study explored the micronutrient status of IBD patients receiving biologic therapies.

They found that deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals were common among these patients, with deficiencies in zinc and selenium linked to worse disease outcomes.

Specifically, patients with Crohn's disease and zinc deficiency were more likely to need surgery or corticosteroid treatment, while those with ulcerative colitis and selenium deficiency were more likely to experience disease flares.

These findings highlight the importance of monitoring and addressing micronutrient levels to improve IBD management.

Brownson E, Saunders J, Jatkowska A, White B, Gerasimidis K, Seenan JP, Macdonald J. Micronutrient Status and Prediction of Disease Outcome in Adults With Inflammatory Bowel Disease Receiving Biologic Therapy. Inflamm Bowel Dis. 2023 Aug 23:izad174. doi: 10.1093/ibd/izad174. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 37611079.




Gut Microbiota, Physical Function, and Aging
"Gut Health and Aging: How Microbiota Connects to Physical Function"

The composition of gut microbiota, the collection of microorganisms in our digestive system, has been associated with various health aspects.

A study focused on healthy midlife individuals, found that the diversity of microbiota wasn't directly tied to chronological age.

However, women with richer microbiota tended to have better physical capacity. Certain microbial groups were linked to biological age and physical function.

For instance, certain microbes were associated with older biological age and reduced physical capacity, while others were linked to younger biological age and improved physical capacity.

This suggests that the makeup of gut microbiota might influence how well we age and function, potentially opening doors for personalized probiotics to support healthy aging.

Tzemah-Shahar R, Turjeman S, Sharon E, Gamliel G, Hochner H, Koren O, Agmon M. Signs of aging in midlife: physical function and sex differences in microbiota. Geroscience. 2023 Aug 23. doi: 10.1007/s11357-023-00905-3. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 37610596.

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