Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

Inner Child: Being Left Out And Rejected In Childhood Becomes A Social Seed For Deeper Connections

Imagine a fourth-grader in a classroom full of chatter and potential. The teacher announces, “Form your groups,” and he waits—scanning faces, hoping someone gestures toward him but no one does. That ache in the chest? That’s not just embarrassment or disappointment it’s rejection—and for kids, it lands with surprising force. Or consider the reality for a teenager who finds out that their friends hosted a dinner party sans their invitation. These experiences are not just momentary disappointments; they can be deeply ingrained in the fabric of our emotions, influencing not just behaviors but our mental well-being.

We often think of rejection as a bruising experience to be avoided. As adults, we know the sting—being passed over for a promotion, left out of a gathering, or ghosted after a second date. But for children navigating their earliest friendships and social landscapes, rejection can feel like a signal flare going off in their brains. And according to new and emerging research, that pain might actually be useful.

Rejection, as it turns out, is more than just a blow to the ego. It’s a biological signal, a teaching moment, and a map to social understanding—especially during childhood. Far from just scarring kids, it can guide them to build stronger, more meaningful relationships, if we understand what’s happening beneath the surface.

<h2>Rejection as a Social Learning Tool</h2>

Social psychology and neuroscience researchers have spent years untangling the emotional toll of rejection and here’s what they’ve found: rejection doesn’t just feel bad—it actually activates the same areas of the brain involved in physical pain. The anterior cingulate cortex, to be specific.

From an evolutionary standpoint, rejection has profound significance. Our ancestors likely cultivated social bonds for survival. In prehistoric times, being excluded from social groups jeopardized one's safety and resource access, rendering social belonging a fundamental human necessity. Hence, our brains evolved to respond with urgency to feelings of rejection; the anterior cingulate cortex—known to activate in response to physical pain—fires up in reaction to social exclusion.

There’s more to it than hurt feelings, as social psychologists puts it, rejection is not just pain—it’s feedback. Neuroscience has revealed intriguing insights into this complex interplay of feelings and actions. In an environment where social dynamics are not static but constantly evolving, children learn to read behaviors, decipher intentions, and refine their assumptions throughout their experiences with peers. Early rejection may lead to reflection on one's behavior, intentions, and ultimately, a more keen ability to navigate future interactions.

In studies where participants were excluded from a simple virtual ball-tossing game, their brains didn’t just light up from distress—they showed signs of processing surprise. That surprise, researchers now believe, may be what turns rejection into a learning signal.

What this means is that the brain doesn’t just say, “Ouch, that hurt.” It says, “Wait, what happened—and what can I do differently next time?” In the social landscape, especially among kids, rejection may actually help refine how they approach relationships in the future. It becomes a kind of emotional GPS—updating their internal models of trust, value, and connection.

<h2>How the Brain Processes Acceptance and Rejection Differently?</h2>

Intriguingly, while an anxious child might avoid disruptive behaviors, a child conditioned to anticipate rejection might instead develop a more rebellious stance against peer conformity. This indicates that rejection can lead to various coping mechanisms, thereby influencing children’s decision-making processes when navigating peer relationships.

Recent research has found that the brain treats social rejection and acceptance as distinct—but complementary—forms of learning.

When someone experiences acceptance, areas like the ventral striatum activate. That’s the part of the brain associated with rewards like praise, money, or affection. In contrast, the anterior cingulate cortex processes social devaluation or rejection—but not just as emotional pain. It recalibrates a person’s sense of social standing, helping them update beliefs about where they stand in the group.

So when kids are rejected, especially unexpectedly, their brains are doing more than just hurting. They’re recalculating relational value: Who likes me? Who doesn’t? Who can I trust?

That recalibration can actually lead to better social decision-making. It helps kids discern between relationships worth investing in and those that may not be safe or reciprocal. That’s a skill they’ll need their entire lives.

While rejection can serve as a powerful teacher, it’s not experienced the same way by every child. New research from the University of Georgia reveals two key reactions in children who are sensitive to rejection:

Rejection Expectancy: A cognitive pattern where children assume they’ll be rejected.

Anxious Rejection Anticipation: An emotional state where the child fears being excluded, even without evidence.

These patterns show up in fascinating—and sometimes contradictory—ways.

Children who fear rejection tend to conform more. They try harder in school, follow rules more closely, and avoid troublemaking behaviors. In essence, they try to stay in good standing by blending in and performing well.

On the other hand, children who expect rejection often resist conforming. They’re less likely to follow group norms or academic expectations, perhaps because they’ve already assumed there’s no reward in fitting in.

This split in behavior shows that rejection isn’t just a one-size-fits-all experience. How a child interprets rejection—cognitively and emotionally—shapes whether it motivates connection or fuels isolation.

<h2>When Rejection Teaches the Wrong Lessons?</h2>

Of course, not all rejection leads to growth. Chronic or repeated social exclusion—especially in environments marked by bullying or relational aggression—can reinforce a child’s belief that they are unworthy of connection. This can lead to emotional withdrawal, aggression, or symptoms of depression, often before those children even have the language to articulate their pain.

Children who don’t receive support after rejection may also misread future social cues, seeing threats where none exist. In extreme cases, this hypersensitivity can contribute to the development of conditions like borderline personality disorder, which is often characterized by unstable relationships and intense emotional responses to both praise and criticism.

That’s why parental and educator intervention is crucial. Teaching children to understand and regulate their emotional responses to rejection—and to make sense of their social world—is just as important as teaching math or reading.

When kids experience rejection, adults often respond with platitudes: “They’re just jealous,” or “You don’t need them anyway.” But these responses, though well-meaning, can invalidate a child’s feelings or prevent them from developing the skills to handle future rejection constructively. Instead, adults can:

Normalize rejection as part of social life. Explain that everyone feels excluded sometimes, and it doesn’t define their worth.

Help children distinguish between one-off slights and patterns of exclusion. Was it a misunderstanding, or is it part of a larger trend?

Support emotional regulation. Teach children to manage anger, sadness, and shame without suppressing them.

Model healthy responses to rejection in their own lives. Kids learn from watching how adults handle setbacks.

Ultimately, rejection teaches kids how to belong. It helps them calibrate their expectations, recognize which friendships are reciprocal, and learn how to show up more authentically in relationships.

When rejection is met with support, reflection, and context, it can become a bridge—not a barrier—to deeper connection.

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Imagine a fourth-grader in a classroom full of chatter and potential. The teacher announces, “Form your groups,” and he waits—scanning faces, hoping someone gestures toward him but no one does. That ache in the chest? That’s not just embarrassment or disappointment it’s rejection—and for kids, it lands with surprising force. Or consider the reality for a teenager who finds out that their friends hosted a dinner party sans their invitation. These experiences are not just momentary disappointments; they can be deeply ingrained in the fabric of our emotions, influencing not just behaviors but our mental well-being.We often think of rejection as a bruising experience to be avoided. As adults, we know the sting—being passed over for a promotion, left out of a gathering, or ghosted after a second date. But for children navigating their earliest friendships and social landscapes, rejection can feel like a signal flare going off in their brains. And according to new and emerging research, that pain might actually be useful.Rejection, as it turns out, is more than just a blow to the ego. It’s a biological signal, a teaching moment, and a map to social understanding—especially during childhood. Far from just scarring kids, it can guide them to build stronger, more meaningful relationships, if we understand what’s happening beneath the surface.Rejection as a Social Learning ToolSocial psychology and neuroscience researchers have spent years untangling the emotional toll of rejection and here’s what they’ve found: rejection doesn’t just feel bad—it actually activates the same areas of the brain involved in physical pain. The anterior cingulate cortex, to be specific.From an evolutionary standpoint, rejection has profound significance. Our ancestors likely cultivated social bonds for survival. In prehistoric times, being excluded from social groups jeopardized one's safety and resource access, rendering social belonging a fundamental human necessity. Hence, our brains evolved to respond with urgency to feelings of rejection; the anterior cingulate cortex—known to activate in response to physical pain—fires up in reaction to social exclusion.There’s more to it than hurt feelings, as social psychologists puts it, rejection is not just pain—it’s feedback. Neuroscience has revealed intriguing insights into this complex interplay of feelings and actions. In an environment where social dynamics are not static but constantly evolving, children learn to read behaviors, decipher intentions, and refine their assumptions throughout their experiences with peers. Early rejection may lead to reflection on one's behavior, intentions, and ultimately, a more keen ability to navigate future interactions.In studies where participants were excluded from a simple virtual ball-tossing game, their brains didn’t just light up from distress—they showed signs of processing surprise. That surprise, researchers now believe, may be what turns rejection into a learning signal.What this means is that the brain doesn’t just say, “Ouch, that hurt.” It says, “Wait, what happened—and what can I do differently next time?” In the social landscape, especially among kids, rejection may actually help refine how they approach relationships in the future. It becomes a kind of emotional GPS—updating their internal models of trust, value, and connection.How the Brain Processes Acceptance and Rejection Differently?Intriguingly, while an anxious child might avoid disruptive behaviors, a child conditioned to anticipate rejection might instead develop a more rebellious stance against peer conformity. This indicates that rejection can lead to various coping mechanisms, thereby influencing children’s decision-making processes when navigating peer relationships.Recent research has found that the brain treats social rejection and acceptance as distinct—but complementary—forms of learning.When someone experiences acceptance, areas like the ventral striatum activate. That’s the part of the brain associated with rewards like praise, money, or affection. In contrast, the anterior cingulate cortex processes social devaluation or rejection—but not just as emotional pain. It recalibrates a person’s sense of social standing, helping them update beliefs about where they stand in the group.So when kids are rejected, especially unexpectedly, their brains are doing more than just hurting. They’re recalculating relational value: Who likes me? Who doesn’t? Who can I trust?That recalibration can actually lead to better social decision-making. It helps kids discern between relationships worth investing in and those that may not be safe or reciprocal. That’s a skill they’ll need their entire lives.While rejection can serve as a powerful teacher, it’s not experienced the same way by every child. New research from the University of Georgia reveals two key reactions in children who are sensitive to rejection:Rejection Expectancy: A cognitive pattern where children assume they’ll be rejected.Anxious Rejection Anticipation: An emotional state where the child fears being excluded, even without evidence.These patterns show up in fascinating—and sometimes contradictory—ways.Children who fear rejection tend to conform more. They try harder in school, follow rules more closely, and avoid troublemaking behaviors. In essence, they try to stay in good standing by blending in and performing well.On the other hand, children who expect rejection often resist conforming. They’re less likely to follow group norms or academic expectations, perhaps because they’ve already assumed there’s no reward in fitting in.This split in behavior shows that rejection isn’t just a one-size-fits-all experience. How a child interprets rejection—cognitively and emotionally—shapes whether it motivates connection or fuels isolation.When Rejection Teaches the Wrong Lessons?Of course, not all rejection leads to growth. Chronic or repeated social exclusion—especially in environments marked by bullying or relational aggression—can reinforce a child’s belief that they are unworthy of connection. This can lead to emotional withdrawal, aggression, or symptoms of depression, often before those children even have the language to articulate their pain.Children who don’t receive support after rejection may also misread future social cues, seeing threats where none exist. In extreme cases, this hypersensitivity can contribute to the development of conditions like borderline personality disorder, which is often characterized by unstable relationships and intense emotional responses to both praise and criticism.That’s why parental and educator intervention is crucial. Teaching children to understand and regulate their emotional responses to rejection—and to make sense of their social world—is just as important as teaching math or reading.What Can Adults Do to Help?When kids experience rejection, adults often respond with platitudes: “They’re just jealous,” or “You don’t need them anyway.” But these responses, though well-meaning, can invalidate a child’s feelings or prevent them from developing the skills to handle future rejection constructively. Instead, adults can:Normalize rejection as part of social life. Explain that everyone feels excluded sometimes, and it doesn’t define their worth.Help children distinguish between one-off slights and patterns of exclusion. Was it a misunderstanding, or is it part of a larger trend?Support emotional regulation. Teach children to manage anger, sadness, and shame without suppressing them.Model healthy responses to rejection in their own lives. Kids learn from watching how adults handle setbacks.Ultimately, rejection teaches kids how to belong. It helps them calibrate their expectations, recognize which friendships are reciprocal, and learn how to show up more authentically in relationships.When rejection is met with support, reflection, and context, it can become a bridge—not a barrier—to deeper connection.

inner child: being left out and rejected in childhood becomes a social seed for deeper connections

Where Do Gluten Reactions Start In The Body?  Scientists Finally Found The Source

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Over 1 in 100 people worldwide living with <span>celiac disease</span>, consuming even trace amounts of gluten can trigger debilitating symptoms — from severe abdominal pain to long-term complications like malnutrition and increased cancer risk. But despite decades of research, the exact origin of these immune reactions remained something of a mystery.

Now, scientists may have pinpointed the elusive starting point of gluten-triggered immune attacks. In a landmark study published in Gastroenterology, researchers from McMaster University in Canada, along with international collaborators, have uncovered a pivotal role played by the cells lining the gut — not just as bystanders but as active agents in the cascade that defines celiac disease. This finding could pave the way for more precise, non-dietary therapies.

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune condition triggered by gluten — a group of structural proteins found in wheat, barley, and rye. While most people digest gluten without issue, those with celiac disease experience an abnormal immune reaction that damages the small intestine.

The symptoms range from bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea to fatigue, skin rashes, and nutrient deficiencies. Over time, untreated celiac disease can lead to serious complications including osteoporosis, infertility, and gastrointestinal cancers.

Currently, the only effective treatment is lifelong strict avoidance of gluten — a tall order, given how ubiquitous gluten is in processed food, sauces, and even medications.

One clue to the mystery lies in genetics. Nearly 90% of people with celiac disease carry a specific protein called HLA-DQ2.5, while most of the rest carry HLA-DQ8. These proteins are part of a group called human leukocyte antigens (HLAs), which present bits of proteins to the immune system — essentially acting like flags that identify threats.

In people with celiac disease, HLA-DQ2.5 or DQ8 mistakenly flags gluten fragments as dangerous, prompting an aggressive immune response. But not everyone who carries these genes gets the disease — suggesting something else is required to flip the switch.

<h2>Link Between Your Gut Cells and Gluten</h2>

Until now, it wasn’t fully understood how gluten peptides made their way past the gut lining and into the immune system’s crosshairs. The McMaster-led study changes that.

By using transgenic mice — mice genetically engineered to carry human versions of the HLA genes — researchers were able to simulate celiac disease at the cellular level. They grew miniature gut models known as organoids, made from real mouse intestinal cells, to observe what happens when gluten meets the gut lining.

What they found was striking: the epithelial cells lining the gut aren’t passive observers — they actively participate in the immune reaction.

These cells release a transporting enzyme that binds to gluten peptides and modifies them, making them even more visible to the immune system. The cells then present these altered gluten fragments directly to immune cells, triggering inflammation.

In other words, your own gut lining might be the place where celiac disease begins.

<h2>Gut Microbes Could Be Amplifying the Problem</h2>

Another major insight: inflammation and gut microbes appear to amplify the immune response. When the researchers exposed their organoids to inflammatory triggers and bacteria-processed gluten, the cells ramped up production of immune signaling molecules — effectively supercharging the immune reaction.

This discovery opens new avenues for treatment. Targeting the gut’s microbiome or blocking the epithelial cells’ presentation of gluten peptides could offer alternatives to the gluten-free diet — something patients and clinicians alike have long hoped for.

Lead researcher Dr. Elena Verdu, a gastroenterologist at McMaster, notes that while avoiding gluten is currently the only way to manage celiac disease, it is far from perfect.

“This is difficult to do, and experts agree that a gluten-free diet is insufficient,” Verdu says. “Our findings show that the gut lining plays a much bigger role in initiating the immune reaction than previously believed.”

By identifying the specific tissue types and enzymes involved, scientists now have a roadmap for developing targeted treatments. In the future, medications might block the gut’s gluten-presenting function, regulate inflammation, or even alter how gut bacteria break down gluten — all without having to eliminate gluten entirely.

<h2>Can This Help End the Gluten-Free Dietary Restrictions?</h2>

This breakthrough adds weight to the growing understanding that celiac disease is not just about the immune system being “overreactive,” but about how and where that reaction begins.

Tohid Didar, a biomedical engineer on the team, says, “This allowed us to narrow down the specific cause and effect and prove exactly whether and how the reaction takes place.”

Such clarity has never existed before. Now, with this map in hand, researchers can explore new therapies that go beyond dietary restrictions. Of course, these results — while promising — are still early. Most of the experiments were conducted on mice, though they carry human genes. The next step will be to confirm these findings in human tissue and clinical trials.

But the implications are clear: for the first time, we know where gluten reactions start. And we might soon have a path to stop them.

For people living with celiac disease, even a crumb of gluten can cause days of pain and damage. This research brings us one step closer to a world where bread, pasta, and pastries can be safely enjoyed — without fear and without compromise.

diet & nutrition

celiac disease

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gut lining cells

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Over 1 in 100 people worldwide living with celiac disease, consuming even trace amounts of gluten can trigger debilitating symptoms — from severe abdominal pain to long-term complications like malnutrition and increased cancer risk. But despite decades of research, the exact origin of these immune reactions remained something of a mystery.Now, scientists may have pinpointed the elusive starting point of gluten-triggered immune attacks. In a landmark study published in Gastroenterology, researchers from McMaster University in Canada, along with international collaborators, have uncovered a pivotal role played by the cells lining the gut — not just as bystanders but as active agents in the cascade that defines celiac disease. This finding could pave the way for more precise, non-dietary therapies.Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune condition triggered by gluten — a group of structural proteins found in wheat, barley, and rye. While most people digest gluten without issue, those with celiac disease experience an abnormal immune reaction that damages the small intestine.The symptoms range from bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea to fatigue, skin rashes, and nutrient deficiencies. Over time, untreated celiac disease can lead to serious complications including osteoporosis, infertility, and gastrointestinal cancers.Currently, the only effective treatment is lifelong strict avoidance of gluten — a tall order, given how ubiquitous gluten is in processed food, sauces, and even medications.One clue to the mystery lies in genetics. Nearly 90% of people with celiac disease carry a specific protein called HLA-DQ2.5, while most of the rest carry HLA-DQ8. These proteins are part of a group called human leukocyte antigens (HLAs), which present bits of proteins to the immune system — essentially acting like flags that identify threats.In people with celiac disease, HLA-DQ2.5 or DQ8 mistakenly flags gluten fragments as dangerous, prompting an aggressive immune response. But not everyone who carries these genes gets the disease — suggesting something else is required to flip the switch.Link Between Your Gut Cells and GlutenUntil now, it wasn’t fully understood how gluten peptides made their way past the gut lining and into the immune system’s crosshairs. The McMaster-led study changes that.By using transgenic mice — mice genetically engineered to carry human versions of the HLA genes — researchers were able to simulate celiac disease at the cellular level. They grew miniature gut models known as organoids, made from real mouse intestinal cells, to observe what happens when gluten meets the gut lining.What they found was striking: the epithelial cells lining the gut aren’t passive observers — they actively participate in the immune reaction.These cells release a transporting enzyme that binds to gluten peptides and modifies them, making them even more visible to the immune system. The cells then present these altered gluten fragments directly to immune cells, triggering inflammation.In other words, your own gut lining might be the place where celiac disease begins.Gut Microbes Could Be Amplifying the ProblemAnother major insight: inflammation and gut microbes appear to amplify the immune response. When the researchers exposed their organoids to inflammatory triggers and bacteria-processed gluten, the cells ramped up production of immune signaling molecules — effectively supercharging the immune reaction.This discovery opens new avenues for treatment. Targeting the gut’s microbiome or blocking the epithelial cells’ presentation of gluten peptides could offer alternatives to the gluten-free diet — something patients and clinicians alike have long hoped for.Lead researcher Dr. Elena Verdu, a gastroenterologist at McMaster, notes that while avoiding gluten is currently the only way to manage celiac disease, it is far from perfect.“This is difficult to do, and experts agree that a gluten-free diet is insufficient,” Verdu says. “Our findings show that the gut lining plays a much bigger role in initiating the immune reaction than previously believed.”By identifying the specific tissue types and enzymes involved, scientists now have a roadmap for developing targeted treatments. In the future, medications might block the gut’s gluten-presenting function, regulate inflammation, or even alter how gut bacteria break down gluten — all without having to eliminate gluten entirely.Can This Help End the Gluten-Free Dietary Restrictions?This breakthrough adds weight to the growing understanding that celiac disease is not just about the immune system being “overreactive,” but about how and where that reaction begins.Tohid Didar, a biomedical engineer on the team, says, “This allowed us to narrow down the specific cause and effect and prove exactly whether and how the reaction takes place.”Such clarity has never existed before. Now, with this map in hand, researchers can explore new therapies that go beyond dietary restrictions. Of course, these results — while promising — are still early. Most of the experiments were conducted on mice, though they carry human genes. The next step will be to confirm these findings in human tissue and clinical trials.But the implications are clear: for the first time, we know where gluten reactions start. And we might soon have a path to stop them.For people living with celiac disease, even a crumb of gluten can cause days of pain and damage. This research brings us one step closer to a world where bread, pasta, and pastries can be safely enjoyed — without fear and without compromise.

where do gluten reactions start in the body?  scientists finally found the source

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It’s easy to blame low libido on stress, hormones, or simple fatigue but what if the actual perpetrator lurks deeper—literally? More and more, studies are indicating your gut health as a main player in affecting sexual desire.

The gut is no longer seen as merely a digestive system. It's today understood to be a command center for a broad range of body functions—immunity, hormone balance, and even emotional well-being. And all of them have a direct or indirect impact on libido.

At the core of this connection is the gut-brain axis, a two-way communication pathway linking your gastrointestinal system with your central nervous system. This process enables your gut microbiome to impact major brain chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine, both of which are important in mood, motivation, and arousal. This is the thing: roughly 90% of the body's serotonin is actually made in the gut. So when your gut is out of whack, your mood, energy, and sex drive can suffer.

One of the most interesting new finds is the estrobolome—a special group of gut bacteria that break down estrogen. The bacteria secrete an enzyme called β-glucuronidase, which recycles estrogen and keeps hormones in check.

When the estrobolome gets disturbed—perhaps by a bad diet, stress, or antibiotics—it can disrupt estrogen balance. What's the consequence? Mood swings, PMS, exhaustion, and a vanishing libido.

<h2>Why Your Gut Might Be Draining Your Energy?</h2>

Even when you're eating all the right foods, a gut that doesn't work well can interfere with your ability to take in necessary nutrients such as iron, vitamin B12, and magnesium—all of which play a central role in energy and mood management. Without sufficient supplies of these, you might feel perpetually drained and mentally cloudy. And let's face it—nobody feels sexy if they're not rested.

Add to that chronic inflammation and disrupted neurotransmitter production, and you’ve got a recipe for low libido that can’t be fixed by aphrodisiacs alone.

<h2>How Your Gut Affecting Your Sex Life?</h2>

If you're consistently experiencing bloating, constipation, or IBS-type symptoms and also experiencing poor sleep, mood swings, or irregular periods, your gut is likely playing a more significant role than you realize. These overlapping symptoms indicate that your digestive system might be playing with your hormones and mood—both integral components of a healthy sex drive.

Gut health is no silver bullet, but it is an oft-overlooked part of the libido equation. Though great gut health will not necessarily trigger an increase in sexual appetite, it provides the groundwork for enhanced mood, vitality, and emotional preparedness—all prime motivators of a healthy libido.

As psychologists and nutrition scientists frequently point out, sexual desire is seldom purely biological. It's impacted by emotional attachment, self-esteem, satisfaction with one's relationship, stress levels, and even cultural conditioning.

<h2>How to Reset Your Gut and Revive Your Libido?</h2>

It's not difficult to enhance gut health, but it does need to be a habitual practice. Following are practical, science-supported methods to get your gut—and your libido—going strong:

Nourish your gut flora: Consume more whole foods containing fiber such as leafy greens, lentils, and whole grains.

Include fermented foods: Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi add good bacteria.

Exercise regularly: Activity supports diversity of gut flora and reduces inflammation.

Deal with stress: Ongoing stress can disrupt the gut-brain axis. Try breathwork or mindfulness.

Sleep: Inadequate sleep disturbs both gut and hormonal balance.

Hydrate: Water keeps the gut mucosal lining intact, facilitating absorption and immunity.

Stay away from unnecessary antibiotics: They destroy both bad and good bacteria.

Your gut may be doing more than break down your food. It may be quietly influencing your mood, your hormones—and yes, your sex life. Although low libido can have countless causes, focusing on your gut is one of the most compelling ways to support your overall health and rediscover your desire. If you've been feeling "off," begin by paying attention to your gut. It might be attempting to communicate more with you than you realize.

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libido booster tips

sex drive and microbiome

It’s easy to blame low libido on stress, hormones, or simple fatigue but what if the actual perpetrator lurks deeper—literally? More and more, studies are indicating your gut health as a main player in affecting sexual desire.The gut is no longer seen as merely a digestive system. It's today understood to be a command center for a broad range of body functions—immunity, hormone balance, and even emotional well-being. And all of them have a direct or indirect impact on libido.At the core of this connection is the gut-brain axis, a two-way communication pathway linking your gastrointestinal system with your central nervous system. This process enables your gut microbiome to impact major brain chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine, both of which are important in mood, motivation, and arousal. This is the thing: roughly 90% of the body's serotonin is actually made in the gut. So when your gut is out of whack, your mood, energy, and sex drive can suffer.What is Estrobolome?One of the most interesting new finds is the estrobolome—a special group of gut bacteria that break down estrogen. The bacteria secrete an enzyme called β-glucuronidase, which recycles estrogen and keeps hormones in check.When the estrobolome gets disturbed—perhaps by a bad diet, stress, or antibiotics—it can disrupt estrogen balance. What's the consequence? Mood swings, PMS, exhaustion, and a vanishing libido.Why Your Gut Might Be Draining Your Energy?Even when you're eating all the right foods, a gut that doesn't work well can interfere with your ability to take in necessary nutrients such as iron, vitamin B12, and magnesium—all of which play a central role in energy and mood management. Without sufficient supplies of these, you might feel perpetually drained and mentally cloudy. And let's face it—nobody feels sexy if they're not rested.Add to that chronic inflammation and disrupted neurotransmitter production, and you’ve got a recipe for low libido that can’t be fixed by aphrodisiacs alone.How Your Gut Affecting Your Sex Life?If you're consistently experiencing bloating, constipation, or IBS-type symptoms and also experiencing poor sleep, mood swings, or irregular periods, your gut is likely playing a more significant role than you realize. These overlapping symptoms indicate that your digestive system might be playing with your hormones and mood—both integral components of a healthy sex drive.Gut health is no silver bullet, but it is an oft-overlooked part of the libido equation. Though great gut health will not necessarily trigger an increase in sexual appetite, it provides the groundwork for enhanced mood, vitality, and emotional preparedness—all prime motivators of a healthy libido.As psychologists and nutrition scientists frequently point out, sexual desire is seldom purely biological. It's impacted by emotional attachment, self-esteem, satisfaction with one's relationship, stress levels, and even cultural conditioning.How to Reset Your Gut and Revive Your Libido?It's not difficult to enhance gut health, but it does need to be a habitual practice. Following are practical, science-supported methods to get your gut—and your libido—going strong:Nourish your gut flora: Consume more whole foods containing fiber such as leafy greens, lentils, and whole grains.Include fermented foods: Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi add good bacteria.Exercise regularly: Activity supports diversity of gut flora and reduces inflammation.Deal with stress: Ongoing stress can disrupt the gut-brain axis. Try breathwork or mindfulness.Sleep: Inadequate sleep disturbs both gut and hormonal balance.Hydrate: Water keeps the gut mucosal lining intact, facilitating absorption and immunity.Stay away from unnecessary antibiotics: They destroy both bad and good bacteria.Your gut may be doing more than break down your food. It may be quietly influencing your mood, your hormones—and yes, your sex life. Although low libido can have countless causes, focusing on your gut is one of the most compelling ways to support your overall health and rediscover your desire. If you've been feeling "off," begin by paying attention to your gut. It might be attempting to communicate more with you than you realize.

Aarushi Bhadury

Pneumonic Plague Death Raises Alarm, Can Prairie Dogs Be The Cause Of It?

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The sudden death of a Northern Arizona resident due to the pneumonic plague- a diseases that is the known cause of the century old <span>health crisis bubonic plague</span>, has raised alarm among the locals and health officials alike. The person died from the plague just 24 hours after feeling sick and showing symptoms. This is a rare but serious case of the disease in the United States amid the declining rate of immunization. The person, whose name hasn't been released, was taken to Flagstaff Medical Center in a very bad condition and passed away the same day. 

The case has raised new worries, especially since it happened at the same time as many <span>prairie dogs</span> were reported dying near Flagstaff. This is a natural warning sign that the plague might be spreading among wild animals in the area. 

<h2>What Is <span rel="noindex">Pneumonic Plague</span>?</h2>

Plague is a rare but serious illness that can affect both animals and humans. It's caused by a type of bacteria called Yersinia pestis (Y. pestis). These bacteria are found in <span>wild rodents</span> and their fleas in many parts of the world, including most of the western United States. Pneumonic Plague is a more concerning type because it affects the lungs. It happens when you breathe in the Y. pestis bacteria. This form of plague can be spread from person to person. Symptoms of pneumonic plague usually start one to four days after exposure. These include: 

<ul><li>Fever</li><li>Headache</li><li>Weakness</li><li>A cough that produces bloody or watery mucus (due to lung infection, or pneumonia)</li></ul>

If you start showing symptoms, see a doctor right away. If you think you might have been intentionally exposed to pneumonic plague, contact law enforcement immediately. Currently, there's no vaccine for pneumonic plague. However, antibiotics can be used to prevent illness in people who have been exposed to the bacteria.

<h2>How Are Prairie Dogs Linked To This? </h2>

According to a report received by Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) on 7th July, Townsend Winona area experienced a prairie dog die-off. They explained that a sudden die-off of prairie dogs and other rodents can be a warning sign for plague, a serious disease that can affect both animals and people. The bacteria that cause plague, Yersinia pestis, spread through the bite of infected fleas or by touching sick animals. People can also get infected from sick pets.

The affected area is on private land, CCHHS is working with the property owner to collect fleas for testing. They'll also contact other nearby property owners to expand their checks and potentially treat the area. Rodent burrows will be treated to reduce flea activity, and the area will continue to be watched closely because plague is common in Coconino County, CCHHS has a system to monitor for the disease. They also watch for other diseases like West Nile virus and rabies to quickly find them, understand how they spread, and take steps to protect the public. Here are some preventative tips you should have

Use veterinarian-approved flea treatments, keep your pets on a leash, and keep them away from areas where wild rodents live. 

If you see many dead rodents or rabbits, please call animal services 

<strong>Keep rodents away from your home</strong>

Clear away brush, rock piles, trash, and lumber from around your house and sheds. Store food in containers that rodents can't get into. 

Never feed or touch wild rodents, and stay away from areas where they are known to live. Do not touch sick or dead animals. 

Use insect repellent with 20-30% DEET and tuck your pant legs into your socks. 

This prevents them from roaming around rodent burrows and is also required by Arizona State law. 

Don't camp near rodent burrows and avoid sleeping directly on the ground. 

Cats can easily get plague. If your cat is sick (especially if it roams outside), take it to a vet right away for diagnosis and treatment to reduce the risk of people getting plague. 

If your pet shows symptoms like a high fever, swollen lymph nodes, tiredness, loss of appetite, a cough, or eye discharge, contact a veterinarian immediately.

The sudden death of a Northern Arizona resident due to the pneumonic plague- a diseases that is the known cause of the century old health crisis bubonic plague, has raised alarm among the locals and health officials alike. The person died from the plague just 24 hours after feeling sick and showing symptoms. This is a rare but serious case of the disease in the United States amid the declining rate of immunization. The person, whose name hasn't been released, was taken to Flagstaff Medical Center in a very bad condition and passed away the same day. The case has raised new worries, especially since it happened at the same time as many prairie dogs were reported dying near Flagstaff. This is a natural warning sign that the plague might be spreading among wild animals in the area. What Is Pneumonic Plague?Plague is a rare but serious illness that can affect both animals and humans. It's caused by a type of bacteria called Yersinia pestis (Y. pestis). These bacteria are found in wild rodents and their fleas in many parts of the world, including most of the western United States. Pneumonic Plague is a more concerning type because it affects the lungs. It happens when you breathe in the Y. pestis bacteria. This form of plague can be spread from person to person. Symptoms of pneumonic plague usually start one to four days after exposure. These include: FeverHeadacheWeaknessA cough that produces bloody or watery mucus (due to lung infection, or pneumonia)If you start showing symptoms, see a doctor right away. If you think you might have been intentionally exposed to pneumonic plague, contact law enforcement immediately. Currently, there's no vaccine for pneumonic plague. However, antibiotics can be used to prevent illness in people who have been exposed to the bacteria.How Are Prairie Dogs Linked To This? According to a report received by Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) on 7th July, Townsend Winona area experienced a prairie dog die-off. They explained that a sudden die-off of prairie dogs and other rodents can be a warning sign for plague, a serious disease that can affect both animals and people. The bacteria that cause plague, Yersinia pestis, spread through the bite of infected fleas or by touching sick animals. People can also get infected from sick pets.Can The Plague Be Prevented?The affected area is on private land, CCHHS is working with the property owner to collect fleas for testing. They'll also contact other nearby property owners to expand their checks and potentially treat the area. Rodent burrows will be treated to reduce flea activity, and the area will continue to be watched closely because plague is common in Coconino County, CCHHS has a system to monitor for the disease. They also watch for other diseases like West Nile virus and rabies to quickly find them, understand how they spread, and take steps to protect the public. Here are some preventative tips you should haveProtect your pets from fleasUse veterinarian-approved flea treatments, keep your pets on a leash, and keep them away from areas where wild rodents live. Report dead rodentsIf you see many dead rodents or rabbits, please call animal services Keep rodents away from your homeClear away brush, rock piles, trash, and lumber from around your house and sheds. Store food in containers that rodents can't get into. Avoid wild animalsNever feed or touch wild rodents, and stay away from areas where they are known to live. Do not touch sick or dead animals. Prevent flea bitesUse insect repellent with 20-30% DEET and tuck your pant legs into your socks. Keep dogs on leashThis prevents them from roaming around rodent burrows and is also required by Arizona State law. Be careful when campingDon't camp near rodent burrows and avoid sleeping directly on the ground. Be aware of sick catsCats can easily get plague. If your cat is sick (especially if it roams outside), take it to a vet right away for diagnosis and treatment to reduce the risk of people getting plague. Get vet care for sick petsIf your pet shows symptoms like a high fever, swollen lymph nodes, tiredness, loss of appetite, a cough, or eye discharge, contact a veterinarian immediately.