Probiotics are live microorganisms, commonly bacteria, that live symbiotically within the digestive tract. They are often referred to as “good” bacteria and are part of our natural microflora. Evolutionarily speaking, humans and other animals have developed a symbiotic relationship with … Lire / Read
Chemicals from a bottle: Bisphenol-A
Bisphenol-A (BPA) made headlines late in 2007 when Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) suspended sales of bottles made using the chemical. MEC cited growing consumer concern that BPA may leach from polycarbonate bottles (1). In the last six months retailers such … Lire / Read
Using Rats to Help Piece Together the Puzzle of Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia’s core symptoms are commonly believed to be inherent to humans, yet neuroscientists use rodent models in research to increase our knowledge of the disease. The etiology of schizophrenia is not known and rodent models have proven to be a … Lire / Read
Stress and the Role of Alpha-Amylase
Stress contributes to the development of various physical and psychological illnesses. While the effects of cortisol on stress have been thoroughly studied, the role of the enzyme alpha-amylase has only recently been investigated. The latest research suggests that alpha-amylase is … Lire / Read
Which is Healthier: Wild or Farmed Salmon?
In recent years, the global production of farmed fish has exploded. There have been many ecological concerns over aquaculture practices, but when it came to health issues, matters were overlooked until the publication of a controversial paper in Science, 2004. … Lire / Read
Give a Hug, Save an Infant: Touch and Development
Touch is now recognized as a stand alone contributor to a young child’s healthy development. Aside from providing comfort and security, touch has also proven to be fundamental to the social and physical development of the infant. Such findings have … Lire / Read