More on microorganisms…
In the previous article, you learned (read more >>) that bacteria surround us everywhere. They are in our bodies, on our bodies, and on virtually everything we touch and use. So it’s worth learning even more about them, and also getting to know their “friends,” the fungi. Summer is approaching, beautiful weather is on the way, and it would be a shame not to take advantage of the opportunity to swim in a pool. But is it always a good decision, and how should you behave to avoid unpleasantness associated with this activity? What could cause a constant craving for sweets? And finally, do you know what you’re carrying… in your own belly button? Are you curious about these questions? In this article, you’ll find the answers.
What does swimming in a pool mean?
Swimming in a pool is often associated with something pleasant and relaxing. It is a recommended physical activity for many people. However, it’s not always so rosy. Pools are often contaminated because some people urinate in them or enter the pool without first showering. Unfortunately, the quality of water in a pool cannot be assessed with the naked eye. Chemical or microbiological tests are needed for this. Therefore, when going to the pool, we should follow a few important rules:
1) Do not go to the pool if you are sick or have open wounds on your body.
2) Do not drink or put pool water in your mouth.
3) Do not open your eyes underwater; use special swimming goggles.
4) Wash yourself with soap and water before and after entering the pool.
Dirty pools are dangerous for children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. In these cases, E. coli bacteria present in the pool can cause unpleasant gastrointestinal infections, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. Women, especially young girls, should be particularly cautious while swimming. The bacterium E. coli can cause urinary or reproductive infections. Therefore, women should avoid jacuzzis and not go to the pool during menstruation, even if using tampons.
One should also be cautious about fungal infections in pools. They are caused by various types of fungi. It is essential to wear flip-flops around the pool and not stand on other people’s towels. Initially, athlete’s foot does not present many symptoms but may eventually cause itching and, in older individuals, skin dryness. Fungal nail infections are easiest to recognize as the nail plate turns yellow. Fungal infections can be treated with topical medications or by consulting a doctor for a prescription. However, the best way to deal with all issues related to swimming pools is to prevent their development and maintain good hygiene.
Who can contribute to a constant craving for sweets?
There’s probably no one who doesn’t occasionally crave something sweet. Sweets often improve our mood or accompany us during social gatherings. However, as with everything in diet, moderation is key to avoid weight gain or diabetes. What should you do if you constantly crave sweets? What could be the cause? As you know from previous articles, our intestines are home to enormous numbers of bacteria. In addition, fungi also find their place there. And they might be the culprits behind our constant need for sweet things! Fungi are part of the human body’s natural flora. The most common fungi in our bodies are from the genus Candida albicans, which are yeast. They are needed because they participate in various metabolic processes. However, sometimes their balance is disrupted, leading to an overgrowth of fungi, resulting in a condition known as gastrointestinal candidiasis. This occurs after prolonged antibiotic use or during a weakened state of the body. That’s why it’s essential to take care of ourselves and combine antibiotic use with probiotics. But how does this relate to the craving for sweets? It’s quite simple. Yeast used in baking needs simple sugars (like the teaspoon of sugar you add to dough to help it rise). The same happens in our bodies when we are infected with yeast—there is a strong need to consume sweet things to “feed” the yeast. If you constantly crave sweets, consult a doctor as it may indicate a disease! The doctor may order tests such as an oral swab or endoscopy to make an accurate diagnosis. Personally, I recommend deworming your body every six months. It doesn’t matter if you have a sweet tooth or not. It’s worth cleansing your body of excess parasites and microorganisms. You can use natural remedies like Para Farm (available at herbal shops). Remember! If you are deworming, all household members should do the same (pets too!) 🙂 Live happily, cleanse your body, and restore proper digestive system function. Also, choose healthy sweet alternatives—recipes are available on my blog>> 🙂
What is in the belly button?
The belly button is a scar left after the umbilical cord falls off, located in the middle of the abdomen. Such a seemingly insignificant part of our body,…but scientists have discovered that it contains an ecosystem as rich as that of the Amazon rainforest. It has also been discovered that there are almost 2,400 species of bacteria there! For such a small area of the body, that’s an enormous number, right? What’s more, the bacteria in individual belly buttons are rarely the same in different people, so each of us carries our own unique ecosystem in our belly button. Even more interesting, some belly button bacteria can be used for…food production. During the artistic project “Grow Your Own” in Dublin, brie cheese was produced using bacteria from the belly button of food critic Michael Pollan. Australians, on the other hand, created beer based on yeast from their own belly buttons. Thanks to the bacteria in your belly button, you can feel unique… and perhaps even create some delicacy! It sounds absurd, but as science shows, such cases already exist.
I hope that this article has provided you with a more comprehensive view of the world of bacteria we encounter daily and also introduced you to fungi that, unfortunately, can sometimes cause significant problems. So take care of yourself, follow hygiene rules, and if something concerns you, consult a doctor.
