Antibiotics — Too Much of a Good Thing?

April 9, 2009 | Leave a Comment

Alexander Fleming’s discovery of penicillin is one of the greatest breakthroughs of our civilization. If not for this discovery, certain types of bacteria would undoubtedly get the best of us. However, as with most things, antibiotics fall under the category of “too much of a good thing is not good.” Currently antibiotics are being over utilized as a “cure all” for any sniffle, cough, or discolored mucus. This is a dangerous trend that creates drug resistant bacteria.

Bacteria, both good and bad, reside in our bodies usually posing very little problems. In fact, most common conditions (like colds, the flu, most coughs, bronchitis and sore throats) are caused by viruses which are routinely treated with prescription antibiotics despite their ineffectiveness on viruses. Bacteria are one of the fastest reproducing organisms in existence which enables them to easily mutate their genes to resist antibiotics. Therefore, over prescribed antibiotics will not only destroy beneficial bacteria in our bodies but weak bacteria, thus, leaving the drug resistant bacteria (super bugs) to reproduce. So, the next time you come down with a sniffle be judicious with your use of antibiotics. Strengthen your immune system instead with proper nutrition, adequate exercise, and optimal nerve function by getting chiropractic adjustments.

Posted by Dr. Gary Nolan | Filed Under Health Tips

Quick Reference

1. Exercise Regularly—This does not mean anything overly strenuous. Something as simple as a daily walk can make a huge impact on your health.

2. Eat a Healthy Diet—Proper nutrients allow the body to repair itself easier. Eat organic, unrefined foods and drink at least eight glasses of pure water every day. Avoid drugs, whether recreational or prescribed, including alcohol and caffeine.

3. Maintain Good Posture—Are you sitting up straight as you read this?

4. Sleep on Your Back or Side, Never Your Stomach—Avoid sleeping on your stomach, it twists your neck; avoid the fetal position, it reverses your spinal curves.

5. Invest in a Good Chair, Pillow and Mattress—When you think about the amount of time you use these things each day, it’s worth it.

6. Stretch Your Spine Before and After Sports—This will also help to loosen up the surrounding muscles.

7. Stretch Your Legs and Back After Each Hour of Sitting—whether in a car or at a desk, stretching regularly will help to keep you from tightening up or injuring yourself further.

8. Never cradle the phone between your neck and shoulder.

9. Do Not Overload Your Backpack, Purse or Wallet. Remember to carry it over both shoulders to balance the load (if possible). Keep your wallet out of your back pocket when sitting, especially when driving.

10. Remember To Visit Us Regularly—Especially if you are ill, under a lot of stress, pregnant or in an accident or trauma. Remember, it is much easier to prevent a problem than to correct one.