In recent years, there has been much talk about the importance of the gut microbiome for our overall health. Consequently, we now systematically associate the terms microbiome and microbiota with communities of microorganisms inhabiting our digestive system while forgetting that humans do not host one, but several microbiotas including the skin, the oropharyngeal and the vaginal microbiota. Often overlooked, the vaginal microbiota performs several important functions and deserves some TLC, so let us learn about our friendly bacteria and how to take care of them! Discovering the Vaginal Microbiota The composition and proper functioning of the vaginal microbiota contributes to

Caloric restriction (CR) has been found to be the most reliable intervention to prevent age-related disorders and extend lifespan.[1] Aging and dietary restriction interact through partially overlapping mechanisms in the activation of the conserved nutrient-signalling pathways, mainly the insulin/insulin-like growth factor (IIS) and the Target Of Rapamycin (TOR).[2] Adenosine monophosphate activated protein kinase signaling, and Sirtuin are also being investigated as underlying pathways that mediate the benefits of caloric restriction.[3] How specific nutrients of dietary regimens and their balance interact with different genes and pathways is not fully understood and it is currently being uncovered. This area of research is

Testosterone is the primary hormone involved in muscle-building, fat-burning, libido, and it also strongly affects mood and energy. Testosterone concentrations tend to decline with advancing age, both in men[i] and in women.[ii] Low testosterone, also known as androgen deficiency (AD), is associated with an increased risk of morbidity and mortality[iii] along with a whole array of symptoms ranging from persistent unexplained fatigue to decreased sexual desire.[iv] However, certain aspects of testosterone are less desirable. Testosterone converts to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by the action of the 5 alpha-reductase (5-AR) enzyme at target tissues.[v] DHT is the most potent natural androgen in humans.[vi]

It seems like just yesterday when we discovered the wonderful microbiome and its impact on our health. Since then, the numerous benefits of probiotics became mainstream and hit the mass market. More recently, we have been introduced to the concepts of prebiotics and postbiotics to complement the action of probiotics, but some confusion remains. Let’s dive into the amazing universe of the ‘biotic’ family of terms (probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics and postbiotics) which coalesce around microbes or their substrates.[i] Probiotics Probiotics are live non-pathogenic microorganisms which have demonstrated beneficial effects on human health.[ii] They consist of lactic acid bacteria, such as Lactobacillus

The global burden of type 2 diabetes is rising and represents a major concern in healthcare worldwide. Global prevalence of type 2 diabetes is projected to increase from 6059 to 7079 individuals per 100,000 by 2030, reflecting a continued rise across all regions of the world.[1]  Consequently, urgent effective clinical preventive and supportive measures are warranted. In this context, pharmacological modulation of the endogenous cannabinoid system (ECS) is emerging as a promising therapeutic strategy in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its chronic complications. The Endogenous Cannabinoid System The endogenous cannabinoid system (ECS) comprises the endocannabinoids (ECs),

Staying active as we age is already challenging but during a pandemic, it comes with extra hurdles. Many people have experienced a decrease in physical activity and an increase in sedentary behavior, which can profoundly impact an individual’s health, well-being, and quality of life.i Evidence has shown that physical activity is associated with significantly lower risks of hypertension, cardiovascular disease, type-2 diabetes, various cancers, and all-cause mortality.ii Physical activity and exercise can also prevent common mental disorders, such as depression and anxiety disorders, and have multiple beneficial effects on the physical and mental health of people with a wide range