Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

'Inside Our ADHD Minds': 7 Things The Series Gets Right About Learning Disabilities

Inside Our ADHD Minds: 7 Takeaways From The BBC Documentary That’ll Change How You See Neurodivergence

What's it like to live with <span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/adhd">ADHD</a></span> or <span>dyslexia</span> or know how a neurodivergent friend actually feels in their mind-not just the textbook definitions, but the day-to-day emotional rollercoaster? In Chris Packham’s groundbreaking new documentary, <span>Inside Our ADHD Minds</span>, we’re invited into the lives of Henry and Jo, two individuals navigating the invisible yet overwhelming terrain of neurodivergence.

Henry, a vibrant tour guide in Soho, speaks with honesty about forgetting to eat, losing track of time, and the deep fear that even those closest to him don’t truly understand who he is. Then there’s Jo, whose story hits a different chord. After 14 career changes and years of being labeled “too much,” it took her daughter’s comment to spark the realization that ADHD might have been part of her life story all along.

What follows in the documentary is not just awareness it’s a revelation. With stunning personal films, expert insights, and Chris Packham’s own neurodivergent lens guiding the way, Inside Our ADHD Minds dismantles stereotypes and replaces them with empathy, clarity, and humanity. This isn’t just about attention or hyperactivity it’s about identity, grief, resilience, and the need to be truly seen.

the two-part documentary series offers an emotionally intelligent and deeply personal exploration into the minds of individuals living with ADHD and dyslexia. It’s a follow-up to Packham’s earlier acclaimed project, Inside Our Autistic Minds, and again leans into empathy, science, and storytelling to deepen public understanding of neurodivergence.

As rates of ADHD and dyslexia diagnoses rise globally, especially among women and adults, Packham’s series couldn’t be more timely. But unlike dry medical overviews, this is narrative-driven, first-person neurodivergence—seen through the eyes of those who live it. From chaotic inner worlds to coping mechanisms that go unnoticed, here are the seven most compelling takeaways from Inside Our ADHD Minds—and what they reveal about the realities of neurodiverse thinking.

<h2>1. ADHD Isn’t an Attention Deficit- It’s Attention Dysregulation</h2>

One of the first myths the documentary busts is right there in the name: “attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.” As Packham candidly explains while walking through the woods—a signature format in the series—ADHD is not about lacking attention. It's about struggling to control and regulate it. One expert likens it to having six televisions on in your brain, all blaring at once, with no remote control.

This reframing is important. People with ADHD don’t lack focus—they often focus too much, too intensely, or on the “wrong” thing from a neurotypical perspective. Recognizing this nuance allows for more compassionate, functional approaches to support and treatment.

<h2>2. Gender Disparities in Diagnosis Persist</h2>

A vital theme running through the series is the gendered nature of neurodivergence diagnosis. While ADHD has historically been associated with hyperactive boys in classrooms, Packham interviews experts who explain how girls—like Jo, one of the documentary’s protagonists—often display symptoms differently. They may internalize their restlessness, mask their distress, or be mislabeled as emotional, disorganized, or lazy.

This misrecognition delays diagnosis, sometimes for decades. Jo wasn’t diagnosed until adulthood, after navigating 14 careers and hitting emotional and professional burnout. Her journey reflects a broader issue: ADHD and dyslexia in women are under-diagnosed, under-researched, and misunderstood—something healthcare systems globally must address.

<h2>3. Expressive Storytelling Can Be Transformative</h2>

Perhaps the most powerful element of the documentary is the way it allows neurodivergent individuals to represent themselves. Both Jo and Henry, the two central figures with ADHD, are given the opportunity to make short films to express what their minds feel like from the inside.

Henry’s film is a chaotic collage of missed alarms, cluttered thoughts, and forgotten meals—offering his family a visceral insight into why even small daily tasks can feel overwhelming. Jo’s story is more emotional, showing the grief she carries for the person she might have become if she had been diagnosed earlier.

These segments remind us that self-expression and creative agency are critical tools for <span>mental health</span> and healing. They can bridge the chasm between external behavior and internal reality in ways clinical language cannot.

<h2>4. Dyslexia Is More Than Letter Confusion</h2>

In the second episode, Packham shifts the lens to dyslexia—a learning difference that affects up to 10% of the population. While commonly associated with reading difficulties, the documentary underscores the broader cognitive landscape of dyslexia: challenges with time management, memory, verbal expression, and navigation.

One striking insight comes from the lived experience of Packham’s stepdaughter, Megan McCubbin, who was told by a teacher that she would never succeed in science due to her dyslexia. Today, she holds a degree in zoology. Her story is a testament to the fact that neurodivergence often coexists with creativity, adaptability, and resilience—not deficiency.

<h2>5. Living with Neurodivergence Means Managing Constant Fatigue</h2>

A subtle but crucial theme throughout the series is the sheer exhaustion of navigating a world not built for you. Dyslexic individuals often expend extraordinary energy simply trying to remember appointments, organize their day, or communicate clearly. ADHD minds, bombarded by sensory input and interrupted thoughts, can find even simple decisions emotionally taxing.

This cognitive labor takes a toll. Many neurodivergent individuals live with chronic fatigue, which further exacerbates symptoms and can lead to a cycle of self-blame and burnout.

<h2>6. Medication Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All</h2>

Both Jo and Henry try medication as part of their ADHD management—but with mixed results. Henry, diagnosed during his school years, disliked how the medication made him feel. Jo, however, found relief. This mirrors real-world experiences: medication can be life-changing for some, while others prefer alternative or supplemental strategies like cognitive behavioral therapy, coaching, and lifestyle modifications.

The documentary handles this with grace—there’s no agenda or judgment, only individual stories and honest reflection. It’s a reminder that treatment for neurodivergent conditions must be personalized and patient-centered.

<h2>7. Neurodivergent People Need Understanding—Not “Fixing”</h2>

Ultimately, Inside Our ADHD Minds is about asking for understanding, not solutions. Henry isn’t asking his parents to change him. Jo isn’t looking for retroactive pity. What both seem to want is acknowledgment: “This is how I operate, and I’m okay.”

This message lands at a time when the neurodiversity movement is gaining traction globally—from classrooms in the U.S. to boardrooms in Europe and universities in Asia. Creating truly inclusive societies means moving beyond awareness to acceptance and adaptation.

As Chris Packham himself notes, “By better understanding neurodivergent people’s lived experiences, we can help remove barriers to their success.”

And that’s the real takeaway here: empathy, not diagnosis, is the first step toward meaningful support.

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What's it like to live with ADHD or dyslexia or know how a neurodivergent friend actually feels in their mind-not just the textbook definitions, but the day-to-day emotional rollercoaster? In Chris Packham’s groundbreaking new documentary, Inside Our ADHD Minds, we’re invited into the lives of Henry and Jo, two individuals navigating the invisible yet overwhelming terrain of neurodivergence.Henry, a vibrant tour guide in Soho, speaks with honesty about forgetting to eat, losing track of time, and the deep fear that even those closest to him don’t truly understand who he is. Then there’s Jo, whose story hits a different chord. After 14 career changes and years of being labeled “too much,” it took her daughter’s comment to spark the realization that ADHD might have been part of her life story all along.What follows in the documentary is not just awareness it’s a revelation. With stunning personal films, expert insights, and Chris Packham’s own neurodivergent lens guiding the way, Inside Our ADHD Minds dismantles stereotypes and replaces them with empathy, clarity, and humanity. This isn’t just about attention or hyperactivity it’s about identity, grief, resilience, and the need to be truly seen.the two-part documentary series offers an emotionally intelligent and deeply personal exploration into the minds of individuals living with ADHD and dyslexia. It’s a follow-up to Packham’s earlier acclaimed project, Inside Our Autistic Minds, and again leans into empathy, science, and storytelling to deepen public understanding of neurodivergence.As rates of ADHD and dyslexia diagnoses rise globally, especially among women and adults, Packham’s series couldn’t be more timely. But unlike dry medical overviews, this is narrative-driven, first-person neurodivergence—seen through the eyes of those who live it. From chaotic inner worlds to coping mechanisms that go unnoticed, here are the seven most compelling takeaways from Inside Our ADHD Minds—and what they reveal about the realities of neurodiverse thinking.1. ADHD Isn’t an Attention Deficit- It’s Attention DysregulationOne of the first myths the documentary busts is right there in the name: “attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.” As Packham candidly explains while walking through the woods—a signature format in the series—ADHD is not about lacking attention. It's about struggling to control and regulate it. One expert likens it to having six televisions on in your brain, all blaring at once, with no remote control.This reframing is important. People with ADHD don’t lack focus—they often focus too much, too intensely, or on the “wrong” thing from a neurotypical perspective. Recognizing this nuance allows for more compassionate, functional approaches to support and treatment.2. Gender Disparities in Diagnosis PersistA vital theme running through the series is the gendered nature of neurodivergence diagnosis. While ADHD has historically been associated with hyperactive boys in classrooms, Packham interviews experts who explain how girls—like Jo, one of the documentary’s protagonists—often display symptoms differently. They may internalize their restlessness, mask their distress, or be mislabeled as emotional, disorganized, or lazy.This misrecognition delays diagnosis, sometimes for decades. Jo wasn’t diagnosed until adulthood, after navigating 14 careers and hitting emotional and professional burnout. Her journey reflects a broader issue: ADHD and dyslexia in women are under-diagnosed, under-researched, and misunderstood—something healthcare systems globally must address.3. Expressive Storytelling Can Be TransformativePerhaps the most powerful element of the documentary is the way it allows neurodivergent individuals to represent themselves. Both Jo and Henry, the two central figures with ADHD, are given the opportunity to make short films to express what their minds feel like from the inside.Henry’s film is a chaotic collage of missed alarms, cluttered thoughts, and forgotten meals—offering his family a visceral insight into why even small daily tasks can feel overwhelming. Jo’s story is more emotional, showing the grief she carries for the person she might have become if she had been diagnosed earlier.These segments remind us that self-expression and creative agency are critical tools for mental health and healing. They can bridge the chasm between external behavior and internal reality in ways clinical language cannot.4. Dyslexia Is More Than Letter ConfusionIn the second episode, Packham shifts the lens to dyslexia—a learning difference that affects up to 10% of the population. While commonly associated with reading difficulties, the documentary underscores the broader cognitive landscape of dyslexia: challenges with time management, memory, verbal expression, and navigation.One striking insight comes from the lived experience of Packham’s stepdaughter, Megan McCubbin, who was told by a teacher that she would never succeed in science due to her dyslexia. Today, she holds a degree in zoology. Her story is a testament to the fact that neurodivergence often coexists with creativity, adaptability, and resilience—not deficiency.5. Living with Neurodivergence Means Managing Constant FatigueA subtle but crucial theme throughout the series is the sheer exhaustion of navigating a world not built for you. Dyslexic individuals often expend extraordinary energy simply trying to remember appointments, organize their day, or communicate clearly. ADHD minds, bombarded by sensory input and interrupted thoughts, can find even simple decisions emotionally taxing.This cognitive labor takes a toll. Many neurodivergent individuals live with chronic fatigue, which further exacerbates symptoms and can lead to a cycle of self-blame and burnout.6. Medication Isn’t One-Size-Fits-AllBoth Jo and Henry try medication as part of their ADHD management—but with mixed results. Henry, diagnosed during his school years, disliked how the medication made him feel. Jo, however, found relief. This mirrors real-world experiences: medication can be life-changing for some, while others prefer alternative or supplemental strategies like cognitive behavioral therapy, coaching, and lifestyle modifications.The documentary handles this with grace—there’s no agenda or judgment, only individual stories and honest reflection. It’s a reminder that treatment for neurodivergent conditions must be personalized and patient-centered.7. Neurodivergent People Need Understanding—Not “Fixing”Ultimately, Inside Our ADHD Minds is about asking for understanding, not solutions. Henry isn’t asking his parents to change him. Jo isn’t looking for retroactive pity. What both seem to want is acknowledgment: “This is how I operate, and I’m okay.”This message lands at a time when the neurodiversity movement is gaining traction globally—from classrooms in the U.S. to boardrooms in Europe and universities in Asia. Creating truly inclusive societies means moving beyond awareness to acceptance and adaptation.As Chris Packham himself notes, “By better understanding neurodivergent people’s lived experiences, we can help remove barriers to their success.”And that’s the real takeaway here: empathy, not diagnosis, is the first step toward meaningful support.

'inside our adhd minds': 7 takeaways from the bbc documentary that’ll change how you see neurodivergence

Aarushi Bhadury

Exercising May Not Be A Lifeline For Couch Potatoes Against Alzheimer’s Disease - You Need To Change THIS

exercising may not be a lifeline for couch potatoes against alzheimer’s disease - you need to change this

A Spoonful Of THIS In Your Daily Meals Can Lower Your Risk Of Dementia

a spoonful of this in your daily meals can lower your risk of dementia

Activities To Keep Your Brain Active As You Age

activities to keep your brain active as you age

Heart Disease Symptom That Shows Up In Your Legs - Survey Reveals 46% People Don't Know Of It

heart disease symptom that shows up in your legs - survey reveals 46% people don't know of it

One of the hardest things many people go through is losing their memories. Slowly forgetting your loved ones, the memories that you formed with them, essentially losing a huge part of yourself and this disease is sadly not an uncommon one. <span>Dementia</span> affects millions of people thought the globe. The <span>World Health Organization</span> said 57 million people all over the world had dementia in 2021, with nearly 10 million new cases every year. 

One of the most unfortunate parts of this disease is that the causes of it are now well known, new studies are done regularly to find out things that affect dementia, early signs and cures as well. However, till date, the best way to tackle this disease is by catching its <span>early signs and slowing down the disease.</span> 

Spotting the first signs of dementia can be tough, but a quick 60-second test might reveal if you have mild cognitive impairment, which can sometimes lead to the condition. This tests is explained in a 2007 article published the journal Psychiatry. This simple test involves naming as many items as you can within a chosen category. 

This easy test simply asks you to pick a common category, for example, animals, and then try to name as many different objects or types of animals that fit into that group as quickly as you can. A study from 2007 suggested that if you can name over 21 things, you are probably fine. However, if you struggle to name 15 or more, it could mean you have cognitive impairment, which significantly increases your risk of Alzheimer's disease—potentially by 20 times. 

Another useful variation of this quick mental check involves asking you to say as many words as you can that begin with a specific letter, such as "F," all within a strict one-minute timeframe. Combining the results from this "letter word" test with the "category naming" test can provide valuable hints about the specific type of memory or thinking problem someone might be experiencing. For instance, if you find it noticeably harder to list words starting with "F" compared to naming items in a group, it could point towards vascular dementia. 

Researchers have also described a third helpful assessment called the Mini-Cog test. This test involves two simple steps: first, you're asked to remember three unrelated words, and then you draw a clock face. After drawing the clock, you are asked to recall the three words. If you can easily remember all the words, it generally suggests your memory is good and you likely don't have dementia. If you only remember one or two words, the accuracy of your clock drawing then becomes a crucial factor in the assessment. 

It's estimated that around one million people in the UK are currently living with dementia, but a significant portion, about one-third, haven't been officially diagnosed. Identifying the underlying diseases that cause dementia at an early stage is incredibly important. Early diagnosis allows individuals to access vital treatments and support services sooner, which can help manage symptoms, improve their quality of life, and allow them to plan for the future more effectively. 

dementia

world health organization

Simple 60 Second Test to detect dementia

Early Detection Matters in dementia

what are early signs of dementia

early signs and slowing down the disease.

brain health

One of the hardest things many people go through is losing their memories. Slowly forgetting your loved ones, the memories that you formed with them, essentially losing a huge part of yourself and this disease is sadly not an uncommon one. Dementia affects millions of people thought the globe. The World Health Organization said 57 million people all over the world had dementia in 2021, with nearly 10 million new cases every year. One of the most unfortunate parts of this disease is that the causes of it are now well known, new studies are done regularly to find out things that affect dementia, early signs and cures as well. However, till date, the best way to tackle this disease is by catching its early signs and slowing down the disease. Spotting the first signs of dementia can be tough, but a quick 60-second test might reveal if you have mild cognitive impairment, which can sometimes lead to the condition. This tests is explained in a 2007 article published the journal Psychiatry. This simple test involves naming as many items as you can within a chosen category.  Category Naming" Test This easy test simply asks you to pick a common category, for example, animals, and then try to name as many different objects or types of animals that fit into that group as quickly as you can. A study from 2007 suggested that if you can name over 21 things, you are probably fine. However, if you struggle to name 15 or more, it could mean you have cognitive impairment, which significantly increases your risk of Alzheimer's disease—potentially by 20 times. "Letter Word" Test Another useful variation of this quick mental check involves asking you to say as many words as you can that begin with a specific letter, such as "F," all within a strict one-minute timeframe. Combining the results from this "letter word" test with the "category naming" test can provide valuable hints about the specific type of memory or thinking problem someone might be experiencing. For instance, if you find it noticeably harder to list words starting with "F" compared to naming items in a group, it could point towards vascular dementia. Mini-Cog Test Researchers have also described a third helpful assessment called the Mini-Cog test. This test involves two simple steps: first, you're asked to remember three unrelated words, and then you draw a clock face. After drawing the clock, you are asked to recall the three words. If you can easily remember all the words, it generally suggests your memory is good and you likely don't have dementia. If you only remember one or two words, the accuracy of your clock drawing then becomes a crucial factor in the assessment. Why Early Detection Matters It's estimated that around one million people in the UK are currently living with dementia, but a significant portion, about one-third, haven't been officially diagnosed. Identifying the underlying diseases that cause dementia at an early stage is incredibly important. Early diagnosis allows individuals to access vital treatments and support services sooner, which can help manage symptoms, improve their quality of life, and allow them to plan for the future more effectively. 

this simple 60 second test could reveal early signs of dementia

This So-Called Healthy Routine May Be Ruining Your Gut From The Inside

Parenting

'I Am A Nutritionist- These Are 4 Diet Non-Negotiables For My Son's Health'

'i am a nutritionist- these are 4 diet non-negotiables for my son's health'

Nutrition

Ozempic Without The Side Effects? Try This Drug-Free Method

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Want To Become Fitter And Leaner By Summer End? Nutritionist Shares What To Add, Skip And Swap

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Probiotics Can Keep You ‘Happy, Healthy And Wise’ Reveals Breakthrough Study

probiotics can keep you ‘happy, healthy and wise’ reveals breakthrough study

For decades, <span>gut health</span> was treated as a special issue but as research keeps revealing the central role that the gut microbiome plays in everything from immunity to mood, the world is now taking notice. Some of the same habits that individuals form under the banner of health and wellness may be quietly sabotaging the microbial ecosystem inside, an ecosystem so important that researchers now call it a "second brain."

From sugar-free treats to fad diets, numerous "clean living" habits might be doing more harm than good. Let's understand the overlooked risks hidden behind these healthy-looking habits and see how you can help your gut thrive for years to come.

That protein bar you stash in your gym bag? That low-calorie snack you munch between Zoom meetings? Although they might look like good decisions, many ultra-processed foods have a health halo that's partially illusory. Foods with "diet-friendly" or "low-fat" labels tend to use emulsifiers, artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and other additives for shelf life extension or flavor enhancement — but these substances wreak havoc on the gut microbiome.

Scientific research has demonstrated that widespread additives such as polysorbate 80 and carboxymethylcellulose — often contained in processed snacks — will change microbial makeup and enhance intestinal permeability, otherwise known as "leaky gut." Such a condition will potentially lead to increased vulnerability for inflammatory disease, metabolic illness, and even mood instability.

Antibiotics are certainly life-saving when prescribed rightly. But the excess usage and misuse of these drugs have resulted in extensive collateral damage. Antibiotics aren't finicky they decimate good gut bacteria along with bad germs, rendering your microbiome weak and depleted.

Frequent use of antibiotics, particularly for viral infections (which antibiotics are ineffective for), is linked with long-term microbial imbalance. This can lead the way to gastrointestinal ailments, compromised immunity, and repeated infections.

Rather than resorting to antibiotics, try a "watch and wait" for low-level infections. Ask your doctor whether medication is really needed, and if prescribed, take the antibiotic course together with probiotics — before, during, and after treatment — to restore healthy bacteria.

<h2>Why Restrictive Dieting Might Be To Blame?</h2>

In the keto, paleo, Whole30, and elimination diets age, "clean eating" has come to equate with eliminating entire food groups. Though a temporary restriction here or there may aid in the determination of food sensitivities, extended elimination of a varied group of plant foods will deprive the microbiome of the fiber and polyphenols necessary for health.

Microbial diversity is a keystone of good gut health. A study from the American Gut Project reveals that individuals eating 30+ diverse plant foods per week possess more resilient and diverse microbiomes compared to those eating restrictive diets. Diversity isn't simply eating more fruits and vegetables — it's also adding legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and fermented foods.

<h2>Why Artificial Sweeteners Are Not So Sweet for Your Gut?</h2>

Sugar substitutes can be helpful for keeping calories in check, but some research has concluded that non-nutritive sweeteners sucralose and aspartame can upset the balance and function of gut bacteria. Such alterations impair glucose tolerance, disrupt insulin sensitivity, and ironically lead to weight gain — the exact opposite of what many are trying to prevent by using these products.

Alternatives are best in the form of small quantities of natural sweeteners such as raw honey or maple syrup or less invasive alternatives like monk fruit extract. Even better, habituate your taste buds to love the natural sweetness within whole foods, bypassing the need for added sugars altogether.

<h2>Are Cooking Oils A Hidden Gut Barrier Threat?</h2>

We’re often told to avoid saturated fats in favor of vegetable oils like corn, canola, and soybean oil — but this advice might come with unintended consequences. These oils, often refined and rich in omega-6 fatty acids, have been associated with increased inflammation, particularly when consumed in excess.

Inflammation damages the gut lining and disrupts barrier function, which in turn leads to various chronic conditions. On the other hand, unprocessed oils like extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil, and ghee have bioactive molecules that maintain gut integrity and have anti-inflammatory action.

If you’re realizing your well-intentioned habits may have damaged your microbiome, don’t despair. The gut is remarkably resilient — given the right environment, it can bounce back.

Begin by boosting the amount of fiber-dense, plant-based foods in your diet. Add fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, and miso, which bring in beneficial probiotics. Cut back on artificial sweeteners, processed foods, and inflammatory oils. Supplement your gut lining with L-glutamine, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Lastly, take care of stress, exercise your body often, and sleep well. These lifestyle factors also affect your gut reminding us that health is never solely about what we consume.

Healthy trends are tantalizing, they deliver quick gains and easy fixes in a world that is getting more complicated by the minute but when it comes to the gut, shortcuts only end in reverse. A really healthy gut takes more than supplements and low-calorie marks — it thrives on balance, diversity, and consistency.

gut health

microbiome disruption

artificial sweeteners gut

processed foods gut damage

restrictive diets microbiome

healthy gut tips

improve digestion naturally

For decades, gut health was treated as a special issue but as research keeps revealing the central role that the gut microbiome plays in everything from immunity to mood, the world is now taking notice. Some of the same habits that individuals form under the banner of health and wellness may be quietly sabotaging the microbial ecosystem inside, an ecosystem so important that researchers now call it a "second brain."From sugar-free treats to fad diets, numerous "clean living" habits might be doing more harm than good. Let's understand the overlooked risks hidden behind these healthy-looking habits and see how you can help your gut thrive for years to come.Ultra-Processed "Health" FoodsThat protein bar you stash in your gym bag? That low-calorie snack you munch between Zoom meetings? Although they might look like good decisions, many ultra-processed foods have a health halo that's partially illusory. Foods with "diet-friendly" or "low-fat" labels tend to use emulsifiers, artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and other additives for shelf life extension or flavor enhancement — but these substances wreak havoc on the gut microbiome.Scientific research has demonstrated that widespread additives such as polysorbate 80 and carboxymethylcellulose — often contained in processed snacks — will change microbial makeup and enhance intestinal permeability, otherwise known as "leaky gut." Such a condition will potentially lead to increased vulnerability for inflammatory disease, metabolic illness, and even mood instability.Antibiotics are certainly life-saving when prescribed rightly. But the excess usage and misuse of these drugs have resulted in extensive collateral damage. Antibiotics aren't finicky they decimate good gut bacteria along with bad germs, rendering your microbiome weak and depleted.Frequent use of antibiotics, particularly for viral infections (which antibiotics are ineffective for), is linked with long-term microbial imbalance. This can lead the way to gastrointestinal ailments, compromised immunity, and repeated infections.Rather than resorting to antibiotics, try a "watch and wait" for low-level infections. Ask your doctor whether medication is really needed, and if prescribed, take the antibiotic course together with probiotics — before, during, and after treatment — to restore healthy bacteria.Why Restrictive Dieting Might Be To Blame?In the keto, paleo, Whole30, and elimination diets age, "clean eating" has come to equate with eliminating entire food groups. Though a temporary restriction here or there may aid in the determination of food sensitivities, extended elimination of a varied group of plant foods will deprive the microbiome of the fiber and polyphenols necessary for health.Microbial diversity is a keystone of good gut health. A study from the American Gut Project reveals that individuals eating 30+ diverse plant foods per week possess more resilient and diverse microbiomes compared to those eating restrictive diets. Diversity isn't simply eating more fruits and vegetables — it's also adding legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and fermented foods.Why Artificial Sweeteners Are Not So Sweet for Your Gut?Sugar substitutes can be helpful for keeping calories in check, but some research has concluded that non-nutritive sweeteners sucralose and aspartame can upset the balance and function of gut bacteria. Such alterations impair glucose tolerance, disrupt insulin sensitivity, and ironically lead to weight gain — the exact opposite of what many are trying to prevent by using these products.Alternatives are best in the form of small quantities of natural sweeteners such as raw honey or maple syrup or less invasive alternatives like monk fruit extract. Even better, habituate your taste buds to love the natural sweetness within whole foods, bypassing the need for added sugars altogether.Are Cooking Oils A Hidden Gut Barrier Threat?We’re often told to avoid saturated fats in favor of vegetable oils like corn, canola, and soybean oil — but this advice might come with unintended consequences. These oils, often refined and rich in omega-6 fatty acids, have been associated with increased inflammation, particularly when consumed in excess.Inflammation damages the gut lining and disrupts barrier function, which in turn leads to various chronic conditions. On the other hand, unprocessed oils like extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil, and ghee have bioactive molecules that maintain gut integrity and have anti-inflammatory action.How to Rebuild a Healthier Gut?If you’re realizing your well-intentioned habits may have damaged your microbiome, don’t despair. The gut is remarkably resilient — given the right environment, it can bounce back.Begin by boosting the amount of fiber-dense, plant-based foods in your diet. Add fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, and miso, which bring in beneficial probiotics. Cut back on artificial sweeteners, processed foods, and inflammatory oils. Supplement your gut lining with L-glutamine, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids.Lastly, take care of stress, exercise your body often, and sleep well. These lifestyle factors also affect your gut reminding us that health is never solely about what we consume.Healthy trends are tantalizing, they deliver quick gains and easy fixes in a world that is getting more complicated by the minute but when it comes to the gut, shortcuts only end in reverse. A really healthy gut takes more than supplements and low-calorie marks — it thrives on balance, diversity, and consistency.

this so-called healthy routine may be ruining your gut from the inside

Fitness

Not 10,000! This Many Steps A Day Could Lower Your Cancer Risk

not 10,000! this many steps a day could lower your cancer risk

A sedentary lifestyle is one of the biggest perpetrators of declining <span>brain health</span>. According to the Alzheimer's Drug Discovery Foundation there are many other factors like eating unhealthy processed foods, high LDL cholesterol, depression, traumatic brain injury, diabetes, smoking, high blood pressure etc., that can cause dementia. One of the best ways to prevent <span>cognitive decline</span> is said to be physical exercise. It reduces chronic inflammation, improves blood flow as well as releases proteins necessary for brain health. However, a new study shows physical activity is not the cure-all answer for decline in cognitive health. 

The surprising thing was the link between how much time older adults spend sitting and their risk of getting Alzheimer's disease. What's even more interesting is that this risk seems to be higher even for people who make sure to get their daily exercise. The study found that those who sat for longer periods were more likely to experience a decline in their thinking skills and even showed signs of their brains shrinking over time, regardless of their exercise habits. 

<h2>More <span rel="noindex">Sedentary Time Means Faster Brain Decline</span> </h2>

The study published in the Alzheimer’s &amp; Dementia journal 2025, followed a group of adults aged 50 and older for an average of seven years. They used special watches to track exactly how much each person moved around during the day and how much time they spent being still. Over this period, they found a clear pattern: the more hours someone spent sitting down regularly, the worse their performance was on tests that measured their memory and how quickly they could process new information. This suggests that prolonged sitting has a negative impact on brain health over time. 

<h2>Daily Exercise May Not Help Your Brain As Much </h2>

One of the key findings of this study is that simply exercising once a day might not be enough to completely protect your brain if you spend the rest of your time sitting. The lead researcher emphasized that while exercise is definitely good for overall health, minimizing the total time you spend sitting down each day could be even more important for reducing your chances of developing Alzheimer's disease later in life. This highlights the need to think about our activity levels throughout the entire day, not just during planned workouts. 

The results of the study were quite revealing. They showed that even a large majority of the participants – about 87% – were meeting the recommended weekly amounts of physical activity set by health authorities. Despite getting enough exercise, these individuals still faced a higher risk of brain shrinkage and cognitive decline if they also spent a lot of time sitting down. This strongly suggests that being sedentary is an independent risk factor for Alzheimer's disease, meaning it can be harmful to the brain even if you are otherwise physically active. 

<h2>You Need <span rel="noindex">Less Sitting Time For Brain Health</span> </h2>

Researchers emphasized the importance of breaking up long periods of sitting with movement. She stated that taking regular breaks to stand up and walk around throughout the day is likely a promising way to help prevent the kind of brain degeneration that can lead to cognitive decline and eventually Alzheimer's disease. This suggests that incorporating more short bursts of activity into our daily routines, rather than just focusing on a single workout, could be very beneficial for long-term brain health. 

Exercising may not help cognitive decline

Sedentary Time Means Faster Brain Decline

cognitive decline

Exercising helps slow cognitive decline

Less Sitting Time For Brain Health

A sedentary lifestyle is one of the biggest perpetrators of declining brain health. According to the Alzheimer's Drug Discovery Foundation there are many other factors like eating unhealthy processed foods, high LDL cholesterol, depression, traumatic brain injury, diabetes, smoking, high blood pressure etc., that can cause dementia. One of the best ways to prevent cognitive decline is said to be physical exercise. It reduces chronic inflammation, improves blood flow as well as releases proteins necessary for brain health. However, a new study shows physical activity is not the cure-all answer for decline in cognitive health. The surprising thing was the link between how much time older adults spend sitting and their risk of getting Alzheimer's disease. What's even more interesting is that this risk seems to be higher even for people who make sure to get their daily exercise. The study found that those who sat for longer periods were more likely to experience a decline in their thinking skills and even showed signs of their brains shrinking over time, regardless of their exercise habits. More Sedentary Time Means Faster Brain Decline The study published in the Alzheimer’s & Dementia journal 2025, followed a group of adults aged 50 and older for an average of seven years. They used special watches to track exactly how much each person moved around during the day and how much time they spent being still. Over this period, they found a clear pattern: the more hours someone spent sitting down regularly, the worse their performance was on tests that measured their memory and how quickly they could process new information. This suggests that prolonged sitting has a negative impact on brain health over time. Daily Exercise May Not Help Your Brain As Much One of the key findings of this study is that simply exercising once a day might not be enough to completely protect your brain if you spend the rest of your time sitting. The lead researcher emphasized that while exercise is definitely good for overall health, minimizing the total time you spend sitting down each day could be even more important for reducing your chances of developing Alzheimer's disease later in life. This highlights the need to think about our activity levels throughout the entire day, not just during planned workouts. The results of the study were quite revealing. They showed that even a large majority of the participants – about 87% – were meeting the recommended weekly amounts of physical activity set by health authorities. Despite getting enough exercise, these individuals still faced a higher risk of brain shrinkage and cognitive decline if they also spent a lot of time sitting down. This strongly suggests that being sedentary is an independent risk factor for Alzheimer's disease, meaning it can be harmful to the brain even if you are otherwise physically active. You Need Less Sitting Time For Brain Health Researchers emphasized the importance of breaking up long periods of sitting with movement. She stated that taking regular breaks to stand up and walk around throughout the day is likely a promising way to help prevent the kind of brain degeneration that can lead to cognitive decline and eventually Alzheimer's disease. This suggests that incorporating more short bursts of activity into our daily routines, rather than just focusing on a single workout, could be very beneficial for long-term brain health.  

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