Description

In this health video you will learn why using natural products are better than using antibiotics.

Transcript

Lyle Hurd: Sherry, we've talked a great deal about Cran-Max and its basic benefits to the human condition. Tell me why we should really look as closely as we can at a natural substance as opposed to an antibiotic whenever possible and what the potential deleterious effects of antibiotics can be and what your suggestion is as the result of that? Sherry Torkos: Well, I think there are a number of health concerns that result from taking antibiotics. Antibiotics destroy bacteria but they do that in an indiscriminate way and what I mean is, they don't just destroy the bad bacteria, but they can also destroy the good bacteria. And, although we don't like to think of it, we have bacteria throughout our bodies. Our gastrointestinal tract is filled with bacteria and some of these good bacteria have a role in maintaining health. These are the friendly bacteria such as the lactobacillus, acidophilus and a bifidobacterium and others that are normal inhabitants of our gastrointestinal tract. When we take antibiotics it can defeat these friendly bacteria, which are what we call our normal flora; that can result in diarrhea. In fact, one of the number one concerns with taking antibiotics is that people get upset stomach, diarrhea, gas, but there are other concerns as well, when you take antibiotics it can lead to a situation called resistance, and when that occurs your body when you do need an antibiotic it doesn't respond appropriately because the bacteria have become resistant to the antibiotics. So, those are some of the main concerns side effects such as upset stomach and diarrhea, but also this issue of resistance. But then 3rdly, antibiotics can interact with prescription drugs. So, if you're taking medications, whether it's birth control pills, or if you're taking heart medication there are potential interactions with antibiotics. So, my feeling as a pharmacist is that we should do whatever we can to prevent the need for antibiotics and only use them when we absolutely have to. So, for example, people that struggle with recurrent urinary tract infections, if you wait till you get the infection you may need to take an antibiotic, but if you can be proactive and take a supplement such as Cran-Max to prevent the urinary tract infection then you will help reduce the need for antibiotics. Now, one thing to keep in mind, if you do take an antibiotic for an infection, whether it's a urinary tract infection or a sinus infection, it's really important to supplement with probiotics during and after the antibiotic. And, the reason for that is that you want to reestablish and replenish those normal, friendly bacteria because that will help to prevent a lot of the side effects that occur with antibiotic usage. Lyle Hurd: You know, this is information everybody should know and understand and we do appreciate your input. Thank you. Sherry Torkos: Thank you.