When is the Best Time to Take Probiotics?

They can even impact more than just your digestive health, but you can read more about those additional probiotic benefits here. Whether you’re suffering through a bout of constipation, diarrhea, or feeling digestive discomfort, a probiotic may be able to help. But when should you take your probiotic…does that matter too? And, should you take it with food or on empty stomach? Let’s take a look at some tips for getting the best from your probiotics.

When to Take Your Probiotics

Does it matter when you take your probiotics? In short, yes it does matter! The concern is that bacteria are delicate by nature, and that they may not survive harsh stomach acid. Taking probiotic supplements at a certain time of day (when stomach acidity may be more neutral) can help you to ensure the highest survival rates of your probiotic. Also, best practice is to take a daily dosage of probiotics to maintain good gut health balance. Add a supplement to your routine at whatever time works best for you, but be consistent.

We recommend taking your probiotic with a meal; breakfast, lunch or dinner.  Food helps to buffer the effects of stomach acid; it may also help to facilitate the passage of the probiotics through the stomach, and ensure they are well mixed with the stomach contents as they pass into the small intestines. That being said, there are hundreds of probiotic strains available in the market, and different strains may need to be administered at a specific time of the day. Some probiotic supplements that also contain prebiotics could lead to some initial bloating and gas, so you may want to take these before bedtime. Read the “suggested use” statement on your probiotic supplement label for best results.

Should I Take Them With Food?

In general, probiotics should be taken with food. They should be taken with food because there are very few strains of bacteria that can withstand the harsh acidity of an empty stomach. Food dilutes stomach acid to levels that bacteria can survive. Fewer bacteria have been shown to survive in “fasted” than in fed subjects. Again, some strains are not hypersensitive to stomach acid and can be taken at any time. And some supplement products use special coating techniques to enable transit through the intestines. We suggest you review the labels for the best information on the product you are taking.

We think that taking probiotics at any time is better than not taking them at all, but taking probiotics at the right time can optimize the health benefits. While we recommend taking a probiotic with your morning breakfast, there are some who prefer taking it before bed, because the gut is pretty inactive at night. If you think about it, you don’t usually wake up in the middle of the night to have a bowel movement. If you take a probiotic at night when your bowel is less active, there is a chance that it may hang around, divide, and potentially get better integrated into your gut.1

Also, if your probiotic causes you to feel a little gassy and bloated after taking it, (which is common when first taking probiotics) you may want to consider switching to taking it before bed, to minimize any public airing of these symptoms.  What about taking it with your multivitamin, is that okay? Yes, we encourage it! You might be concerned that taking a probiotic at the same time as your morning vitamins or supplements might make one less effective. Not to worry though, because in most cases, taking probiotics should not affect the effectiveness of other supplements like your daily multivitamin. Multivitamins are generally designed to be best taken first thing in the morning, which is perfect to pair with the probiotic you take with breakfast.

Storing Your Probiotics

In general, probiotic bacteria are naturally sensitive to heat and moisture, both of which can kill the specialized live organisms and render them ineffective. This is why certain probiotic supplements require refrigeration to preserve their efficacy and will include clear instructions from the manufacturer regarding storage. However, not all probiotics are in need of refrigeration.  Some bacteria strains were developed specifically to survive without it. They become viable again once they enter a moist environment, aka your stomach.  A probiotic that is labeled as “shelf-stable” means it can safely be stored at room temperature. That also means you can take your probiotic with you when you travel or are on the go!

Probiotics can really help to enhance your gut health and overall wellbeing. To optimize a probiotic supplement’s effectiveness, keep these tips in mind. But most importantly, try to prioritize consistency above all else. Adding a probiotic to your daily routine will provide the greatest benefits for your digestive health. Your microbiome will thank you! Speak with your healthcare provider before taking any new probiotics or supplements to make sure it makes sense for you and your body.

Mental Health Check: Are You Hiding Your Stress?

Stress has  become such a part of everyday life that you may not notice it until you experience a full-blown meltdown. This is because stress has a sneaky way of building up until it becomes a serious problem. Once that happens, it can manifest in unhealthy ways. Here are some examples that can signal that it’s time to be more proactive about healthy stress management.

You’re drinking more alcohol. If you are experiencing high volumes of stress, you may find yourself reaching for a glass of wine or a cocktail. People often feel that alcohol lowers their inhibitions and decreases their stress. But—and this is a big but—prolonged drinking can actually increase your stress over time by triggering the release of the stress hormone cortisol.1

You’re eating more junk food. Many times stress can cause a craving for comfort food or overly processed junk food. This can be a problem, especially for people who are frequently stressed. Stress eating can result in weight changes, especially around the abdomen. This is because adrenaline and cortisol make you hungry for carbs and fat. If your jeans aren’t fitting anymore and you find it difficult to lose those extra pounds,  stress could be the reason why.

You’re more critical. If you frequently criticize your coworkers, your loved ones, or even yourself, it may be due to a stress overload. Over time, tis can undermine your relationships with others and can color the way you view yourself and the world around you.

You’re prone to outbursts. We’re not saying you’re more dramatic when you’re stressed. Well,  maybe we are. Here’s why: Stress kicks your brain into overdrive, blowing every little problem out of proportion. As a result, you react more strongly to the heightened state of stress you are in.

What can you do to manage your stress and keep the drinking, eating, criticism, and outbursts to a minimum? Here are some of our top tips.

Get enough sleep. It can be tempting to stay up late binging your new favorite show, but shortchanging yourself on sleep can increase your stress level and affect your mood.2 Sleep allows the brain to recharge and the body to rest and repair itself. When you don’t get enough shut-eye, your body can’t reap the full benefits sleep provides. Adults typically need seven to nine hours of sleep per night.

Eat well. A steady diet of cheeseburgers and fries can decrease energy levels, leading to a lower threshold for stress. Indulging frequently can leave you feeling tired and looking for junk food and sugary treats that an undermine good health and make you more vulnerable to the effects of stress. Instead, try to follow a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, lean protein, healthy fats, and whole grains.

Exercise. As little as 20 minutes of exercise each day can help reduce stress levels. What type of exercise is best to decompress stress? That’s easy—any type you enjoy and will stick with! Some options include swimming, dancing, yoga, or a power walk in the neighborhood.

Get support. Venting about your stress to a trusted family member or friend can help lighten your load. It lets you release your tension in a healthy way and can help reduce your stress. It’s important to choose a close family member or friend who you know will not judge you. Or you can seek the help of a mental health professional for guidance.

Breathe. When you feel stressed, a few minutes of deep breathing exercises can help melt away the tension. Try this breathing technique:

  • Find a comfortable, quiet location and lie in a flat or reclined position.
  • Place one hand on your abdomen, and one hand on your chest.
  • Inhale slowly and deeply through your nose into your abdomen. Only breathe in as deeply as is comfortable (your chest should remain still).
  • Slowly exhale through the mouth.
  • Your abdomen should rise as you breathe in and fall as you breathe out.
  • Repeat these steps 10 times.

Consider supplements: Certain herbs, nutrients, and vitamins can help lessen the effects of stress and promote calm. Look for supplements that combine GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) along with the B vitamins. These nutrients support healthy relaxation and increased alertness. Other stress-relieving  nutrients to look for include omega-3 fatty acids, the adaptogen ashwagandha, and the popular sleep-inducing herb valerian root.3

How to Stay Healthy in a Crowd

How Can You Stay Healthy?

How do you stay healthy in a crowd during the Age of Covid? Here are some of our top tips on ways to stay safe and healthy this fall, winter, and beyond.

Wash hands properly. While hand sanitizers can be effective in a pinch, handwashing is the gold standard for preventing the spread of infection. Here’s why: Germs can easily travel from contaminated surfaces to your hands. When you then touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, these harmful pathogens can enter the body and find their way into your bloodstream. The pathogens can then travel to your respiratory tract and can even disrupt your gut microbiome. Frequent handwashing can help prevent this transmission, keeping both you and the people you love healthy.

According to the CDC, there are five key steps you should follow when washing your hands.

  1. Wet your hands with clean, running water (hot or cold), turn off the tap and apply soap.
  2. Lather the back of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
  3. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds (about the time it takes to sing the Happy Birthday song twice).
  4. Rinse your hands well under running water.
  5. Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.

Keep your hands in your pockets. This might sound like strange advice, but keeping your hands in your pockets can keep you from touching your face. This is especially important because where there are crowds, there are germs—millions of them—on every surface. The less you touch, the less chance you have of coming into contact with a potential bad actor.

Get enough sleep. Sleep can have a significant impact on how you feel, both emotionally and physically. What can you do to make high-quality sleep part of your self-care routine? Start by evaluating your current sleep schedule. Are you eating or drinking right before bed? It’s also important to minimize stimulants like caffeine and sugar.

Reducing stress before bedtime is important too. If you experience work-related stress, think about the best ways to decompress after a hard day’s work. These might include talking to a friend or family member, going for a run, or unwinding with your favorite book. Next, make sure that your bedroom is truly your sanctuary. Keep work out of the bedroom and also try to limit distractions like a television, computer, or cellphone. The goal is to make your bedroom all about relaxation.

Nourish your body. Part of being well nourished involves taking care of your gut. The bacteria that make up your microbiome can have a significant impact on your health, including immunity. In fact, about 70 percent of your immune system resides in your gut. Your gut microbiome acts as a gatekeeper, teaching  key immune cells (like your T-cells) how to tell the difference between pathogens and your own tissue. When harmful invaders do mount an attack, your T-cells swoop in to mediate the situation and destroy the infected cells. Because your gut health and your immune health are so closely tied together, it’s important to support your gut’s beneficial bacteria with probiotics, as well as prebiotics, which act like food for your friendly flora, helping them grow.

Incorporating a clinically studied probiotic into your daily routine is a great way to prioritize your gut health. A quality probiotic can help your beneficial bacteria flourish and keep harmful microbes in check. Supplemental probiotics also reduce gas, bloating, and other common GI issues. Look for a probiotic that’s shelf-stable and guaranteed to be alive and viable at the time of consumption.

Another way to nourish your body is with a diet filled with fruits and vegetables. Green vegetables are especially essential for a strong immune system, proper gut health, and healthy detoxification. Most importantly, greens help keep your body’s pH in balance thanks to their alkalizing properties. An easy way to get your quota is by incorporating a nutrient-dense powdered green drink mix into your routine. When choosing a green drink mix, look for ingredients like chlorella, kelp, wheatgrass, and barley grass. These greens are packed with an array of concentrated vitamins and minerals. Just be sure to check the ingredients in your pre-mixed powder to make sure you aren’t getting added sugar or artificial flavors.

Try a supplement. Certain supplements can be real allies, helping to keep your body strong and healthy. One of these supplements we recommend looking into is Aged Garlic Extract (AGE).

AGE is one of the most extensively researched herbal medicines available today and it offers a wide range of health benefits. Studies show that AGE supports healthy blood pressure levels, keeps harmful cholesterol in check, protects LDL cholesterol from oxidation, increases adiponectin (a hormone that protects against insulin resistance), combats harmful clotting, and more.1 AGE also helps to reduce inflammation and promotes better circulation. Not just any garlic supplement will do though. Choose an AGE supplement that’s backed by solid clinical research and produced through a proprietary aging process that eliminates side effects while maximizing health benefits.

It can be a challenge to stay healthy in crowd. These tips can’t guarantee that you and your children will stay 100 percent germ-free, but they will go surprisingly far towards limiting your potential sick days and keep you as healthy as possible.

 

Healthy Tips to Aging Gracefully

Everyone wants to age gracefully. But that doesn’t mean trying to recapture your youth. Instead, it’s about living your best life and having the physical capability to enjoy it. With the right care, you can support your body as you grow older and keep it as healthy as possible.

Your Aging Body

Here is a look at how aging affects various parts of the body:

Your heart. One of the most common changes to your cardiovascular system is the narrowing and stiffening of blood vessels and arteries, a condition called atherosclerosis. This causes your heart to work harder to pump blood through your blood vessels. The heart muscle then undergoes modifications to adjust to the increased workload. Another change? Your heart rate won’t increase as much as it used to during exercise. Taken together, these changes can increase the risk of high blood pressure and other cardiovascular concerns.

To keep your cardiovascular system healthy as you age, try to include some aerobic exercise in your daily routine. This can be as simple as walking around your neighborhood, swimming, or taking a Zumba class. It’s also important to eat a healthy diet, including veggies, fruits, whole grains, and lean sources of protein.

Your bones. As you get older, your bones start to lose mass and density. Over time, this makes it easier for you to break a bone. Your muscles also start losing strength and flexibility, which can affect your coordination, stability, and balance.

But one thing you can do to support your bone health is to take a calcium supplement, along with vitamins D3 and K2 (vitamin D3 helps your body absorb the calcium and K2 directs it into the bones). These nutrients are critical to bone health as you age.

Your digestive system. Constipation is one of the chief complaints of those who are getting older. Symptoms include difficult or painful bowel movements, or infrequent bowel movements. Why does this happen more frequently as you age? Your digestive system moves food through your body by a series of muscle contractions. As you get older, this process can slow down, causing more water to be absorbed in the colon. This can ultimately cause constipation.

Eating a fiber-rich diet that includes lots of fruits and veggies, and limiting fatty meats, dairy and sweets can help relieve constipation and keep you regular. Adding a daily probiotic to your routine can also help by supporting the beneficial bacteria in your gut and by keeping harmful microbes in check. As a bonus, a daily probiotic can help manage gas, bloating, and other minor GI problems. Look for a probiotic supplement that is shelf-stable, which means it can safely be stored at room temperature.

Get Checked!

Another helpful tip? Don’t skip your doctor’s appointments! Staying on top of your health is about much more than going to the doctor when you feel sick. It means seeing your doctor for regular checkups and screenings (including the dentist and eye doctor too). These visits can help uncover potential health problems in the early stages or before they even start. If you can, have a friend or loved one take you to your appointments. This may make it more enjoyable and will hold you accountable.

Stay Social

Loneliness can affect your health, both mentally and physically. If you feel lonely, whether you live alone or with someone, you are more likely to suffer from depression. In fact, researchers have found that lonely people have higher levels of the stress hormones that can cause low-level systemic inflammation. Studies have linked this chronic inflammation to a number of chronic conditions like arthritis and diabetes.1   Try getting out of that comfort zone and joining a club, a community group, or set up a regular call with a family member or friend.

Reduce Inflammaging

Chronic inflammation is a result of unhealthy habits, including a diet filled with processed foods, lack of exercise, and overindulging in alcohol. As you age, the effects of these habits will start to catch up with you. But it’s never too late to trade in your bad habits for good ones.

You can’t stop the aging process, but you can make choices that improve your ability to maintain an active lifestyle and do the things that make you happy. Surround yourself with the people you love, do activities that you enjoy, and maintain healthy habits. Getting older doesn’t have to slow you down!

Podcast: Jim LaValle and Dr. Hoffman Discuss Plant Sterols and Immune System Balance on Intelligent Medicine Podcast

They talk about what plant sterols are, and how they can help to support healthy cholesterol, as well as immunity. LaValle also discusses our Moducare supplement and how it can help to keep our immune system in balance.

To listen to part 1 this segment, click here and for part 2, click here.

If you are interested in learning more about the benefits of Moducare, click here.

About James LaValle

Jim (James) LaValle, R.Ph., C.C.N, a nationally recognized clinical pharmacist, author, board-certified clinical nutritionist, and founder of Metabolic Code Enterprises, Inc. a web platform and practice solution enterprise, launching AIR Support and the Metabolic Code Assessment.

About Dr. Ronald Hoffman

Dr. Ronald Hoffman is one of New York’s pioneering Integrative Medicine practitioners. He obtained his MD from Albert Einstein College of Medicine, and has been practicing for 34 years. His radio program, Intelligent Medicine, is the longest-running physician-hosted health program on the air.

This article is for informational purposes only. This article is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.

DNA Verification for Probiotics and Probiotic Bacterial Strains—Why It Matters

Here’s why that matters: A 2016 study that appeared in the journal Nature found that 94 percent of all commercial probiotic capsules that were tested at the University of California, Davis, contained completely different strains bacteria compared to the strains stated on the label.1 DNA verification is the only way to accurately determine what’s really in the probiotic you buy.

Now that we know a little more about the importance of DNA verification, let’s spend some time talking about probiotic bacterial strains.

Human Strains vs. Other Strains

When it comes to choosing a probiotic, people are beginning to look more closely at where the bacteria in their supplement come from. While some beneficial bacterial strains comes from plants or dairy, other strains may come from humans. Not to worry! Despite the name, human strain probiotics don’t actually contain human byproducts or ingredients. They are simply strains of beneficial bacteria that have been found to live in the human digestive tract. This means that they are already adapted to thrive in the human gut. And that means that human strains can make a probiotic supplement more effective.

Know Your Species

There are many different kinds of probiotic bacteria and each has a unique function within the body. Becoming familiar with what these different strains do can help you choose a probiotic supplement that will be most helpful for your individual health needs.

Bifidobacterium bifidum: This specific strain can help reduce allergy symptoms like itchy skin, sinus congestion, headaches, and even diarrhea. It does this by discouraging the production of histamine, a chemical that is released in the body to trigger allergic reactions during times of stress or allergy.2

Bifidobacterium longum: This strain may help improve the immune response and prevent gut disorders. Research suggests it may also suppress allergies and improve skin health.3

Bifidobacterium infantis: Studies show that this strain may improve IBS symptoms and help eliminate E. coli in the gut.4

Lactobacillus gasseri: This strain produces vitamin K, lactase, and anti-microbial substances. It may also help people with lactose intolerance to digest dairy foods. L. gasseri also helps to prevent indigestion, diarrhea, and yeast infections.5

Lactobacillus rhamnosus: Evidence suggests that this strain boosts cellular immunity. It also helps reduce IBS symptoms and may prevent recurrent bacterial vaginosis.6

Has Your Probiotic Been Clinically Researched?

One of the hallmarks of a great probiotic supplement is that the ingredients have been clinically researched. More importantly, that the specific strains have been clinically researched when combined. Many probiotics on the market may claim to be “clinically studied,” but often they are referring to clinical studies that have been carried out for each of the species separately. The best-case scenario occurs when the supplement’s species and strains are researched together. For example, let’s say your probiotic contains the following three species: Lactobacillus gasseri, Bifidobacterium bifidum, and Bifidobacterium longum. A clinical study reflecting the benefits of this blend of bacteria (not just each strain as a standalone bacteria) can provide proof that they work well together. This type of study also shows which gut health benefits you can look forward to enjoying.

Finding the right probiotic for your needs means digging deeper into the specific species and strains in a supplement to see if they provide the benefits you are looking for. Choose a probiotic that contains DNA verified species that are both diverse and are compatible together. This can provide beneficial support for good gut health and also the peace of mind knowing that the strains listed on the label are indeed the strains that you are receiving.\

The Top 5 Supplements You Should Take Daily

But with so many different supplements on the market today, it can be difficult to know what benefits they provide and which ones are really worth taking. To help you out, we’ve asked holistic pharmacist and author Sherry Torkos for her list of the top five supplements that most people can benefit from taking.

Multivitamin: In theory, your diet should give you all the nutrients you need. But in reality, the Standard American Diet typically falls short. To fill in the gaps, Torkos suggests a quality multivitamin/multimineral supplement. A multi can help provide a good foundation for your health, as well as extra protection when you’re stressed, sleeping poorly, or skipping workouts. A multi also helps your body convert the food you eat into better, more stable energy. Think of a multi as your own personal nutritional insurance policy. At a minimum, look for a one that contains the B vitamins, beta carotene, calcium, folate (not folic acid), magnesium, selenium, vitamins C, D, and E, and zinc.

Probiotic: Adding a clinically studied probiotic into your daily routine can support digestion and immune health. A quality probiotic can help your beneficial bacteria flourish and can keep harmful microbes in check. They can also help to manage gas, bloating, and other common GI issues. When choosing a probiotic Torkos suggests looking one that is shelf-stable—which means it can safely be stored at room temperature—and also make sure it is guaranteed to be viable at time of consumption. This makes it easy to take with you when you’re on the go.

There are many different types of bacteria in probiotic supplements and they each provide different benefits. These bacteria are organized into genus and species. For example, in the case of lactobacillus gasseri, “lactobacillus” is the genus and “gasseri” identifies the species. The species of bacteria you choose in your probiotic will depend on your health goals. Strains in the lactobacillus genus, for example, are generally helpful for boosting immunity and helping fend off allergies. Strains in the bifidobacterium genus, on the other hand, are linked closely to digestive health and can help reduce GI symptoms.

Greens: Incorporating greens into your daily routine can help nourish your body, especially if vegetables don’t play a major role in your diet. Greens are essential for a strong immune system, better gut health, healthy detoxification, and more. Most importantly, greens help keep your body’s pH in balance thanks to their alkalizing properties. Torkos recommends adding a nutrient-packed powdered green drink mix with chlorella, spirulina, kelp, wheatgrass, and barley grass to your daily routine. These greens are bursting with an array of concentrated vitamins and minerals. Be sure to check the ingredients in your pre-mixed powder to make sure you aren’t getting added sugar or artificial flavors.

Aged Garlic Extract: Aged Garlic Extract (AGE) is one of the most extensively researched herbal medicines available today and it offers a wide range of health benefits. Torkos says AGE is top of her list for heart health because it supports healthy blood pressure levels, keeps harmful cholesterol in check, protects LDL (bad) cholesterol from oxidation, increases adiponectin (a hormone that protect against insulin resistance), protects against clotting, and staves off plaque in arteries.1 AGE also helps to quell inflammation and promote better circulation. Torkos says that not just any garlic supplement will do. She recommends Kyolic AGE because it’s backed by solid clinical research, and it’s produced through a proprietary aging process that eliminates garlic odor and harsh side effects while maximizing its health benefits. A heart-healthy dose is 1,200 mg daily.

Need more targeted support? Additional nutrients can be added to a supplement containing AGE to focus on more specific health concerns. For instance, you may want to support overall cardiovascular health with a special emphasis on blood pressure. We recommend looking for an AGE supplement also containing nutrients like nattokinase and L-theanine—both of which can help to support healthy blood pressure levels.2,3

Fish oil: Omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fish and in smaller amounts in algae, nuts and seeds, play an important role in brain function, normal growth and development, and controlling inflammation. According to Torkos, getting enough omega-3s in your diet is hard unless you are eating fish a couple times a week. She suggests adding a quality fish oil supplement to ensure you are getting enough of these essential fatty acids. Taking a daily dose of omega 3-rich fish oil is also one of the easiest things you can do to protect your heart. Studies have shown that fish oil can help lower blood pressure, reduce blood clotting, and decrease the risk of certain cardiac events.4

Navigating the supplement aisle at your local health food store can be overwhelming. Hopefully we have provided you with guidance on some of the supplements that you should consider taking daily. But keep in mind that the information above is only a basic guide for supplements. The recommended nutrients and amounts will differ from person to person. To dial in what’s best for you, it’s wise to consult with your health care practitioner for a more personalized plan.

Podcast: Meridan Zerner Talks Green Nutrition & How Greens Can Help to Support Immune Health

Registered Dietitian Meridan Zerner recently joined the folks on the ‘Good Morning Arizona” KTVK television show to talk about Kyo-Green, why green nutrition is important, and also how greens can support immune health. She talks about how getting in your spinach, swiss chard, and dandelion greens is great, but that another easy way to get some greens in is through a high-quality powdered greens drink mix. She also talks about what to look for in a greens powder (no added sugars, no artificial sweetener etc). She also mentions some “stealth health” recipes parents can use to get their kids to eat more greens.

To watch this segment, click here.

If you are interested in learning more about the benefits of green nutrition, click here.

About Meridan Zerner

Meridan Zerner is an award-winning Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with 28 years of experience in the field of health and wellness.

This article is for informational purposes only. This article is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.

Podcast: Meridan Zerner Talks ‘Stealth Health’ Recipes for Kids to Get Their Greens

Registered Dietitian Meridan Zerner recently joined the folks on the ‘Morning After” KDAF television show to talk about the power of green nutrition, how greens can help to support immunity and about Kyo-Green Greens Blend. She also talks about some “stealth health” recipes parents can use to get their kids to eat more greens. If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of green nutrition, click here.

Click here to watch this segment.

About Meridan Zerner

Meridan Zerner is an award-winning Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with 28 years of experience in the field of health and wellness.

This article is for informational purposes only. This article is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.