Staying active and motivated to exercise can become increasingly challenging as we age. However, recent research suggests gut bacteria may play a much bigger role in getting us going than previously thought

A recent study discovered that the key to unlocking peak performance and motivation may lie in your gut!

Two superstar bacteria, Eubacterium rectale and Coprococcus eutactus, have been identified as producing fatty acid amides (FAAs). These powerful little compounds stimulate the CB1 endocannabinoid receptors in your gut, leading to increased dopamine release in the motivation-controlling regions of your brain.

And the best part? You can boost the levels of these bacteria in your gut simply by eating a diet rich in fibre, probiotics, and other gut-healthy foods. But it's not just about the science - it's about results!

As a recent convert to using an electric toothbrush full-time, I was surprised to read recently in the New York Times, in bold, that "You don't need an electric toothbrush" in their article "What Dentists Wish You Knew".

I'm a recent convert to using an electric toothbrush full-time. I've flirted with them in the past but found them more inconvenient than using a simple everyday manual brush.

As a convert, I wished I had been using one for the last 20 years, as I now see more debris being loosened, and my gums feel much better. My experience with an electric toothbrush over the last 6 months made me wonder why the NYT would advocate against powered toothbrushes when it could have been neutral, and perhaps even in favour.

I wanted to know what independent research has concluded about the benefits or otherwise of electric toothbrushing and dental hygiene.

Here's what I found.

Strong evidence supports the use of powered toothbrushes for better oral health, i.e., slowing the progression of periodontal diseases such as gingivitis.

Better oral health delays progressive diseases of aging. In fact, older adults with tooth loss have a higher risk of cognitive impairment and dementia, with increasing risk with each missing tooth, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Directors Association.  Source: nia.nih.gov

In a world filled with endless possibilities, it's hard to know what direction to take with your life. So how do we find meaning in life?
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It's a question that has perplexed philosophers and thinkers for centuries and is still being debated today.

​Everyone knows that a big glass of milk before bed helps you sleep. But what about pistachios?

These small nuts are packed with nutrients, including protein and various minerals. A recent study suggests that eating pistachios before bed may help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

Pistachios have been used as medicine for centuries. But why would eating pistachios help you sleep?

​The answer lies in the brain.

Ab wheel rollouts (or ab rolling) are not only one of the best ways to strengthen your abs, but they will also strengthen our entire body.

People often think performing sit-ups is the best way to develop their abdominal muscles. Still, ab rolls are better than sit-ups for developing muscular endurance and overall fitness when performed correctly.

The ab wheel works better than traditional abdominal exercises such as crunches because it trains our core muscles in a different way. It can look super easy but don't be deceived.

Rollouts are challenging because they take much more coordination and control than a typical ab exercise. You must squeeze your butt, engage core muscles, and keep your hips and shoulder blades stable to see progress. The ab wheel isn't just about building strength; it also helps develop flexibility.

​Ab wheel rollouts primarily engages two of the most important muscles of the core: the rectus abdominis ("6-pack"), and the transverse abdominis, which are the core muscles surrounding our belly button and stabilising our torso.

GUEST POST by Elizabeth Elaine Reed* Elly writes health articles for sites such as eleven-magazine.com and fitness-savvy.co.uk. Click here for disclosure statement. 

​Did you just enter your 50s? Can you say with confidence and truth that your health is the same as it was in your prime years?

As men age, their health needs also change. They are more likely to have chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. They also may have problems with their vision and hearing. But, getting older doesn't mean you're destined for an unhealthy future.

​You can still do various things to stay active, fit, full of energy, and healthy past your prime years. To stay healthy, you need to pay attention to your lifestyle choices and make sure you are getting the screenings and vaccinations you need.

In addition, you can also do the following: consider if multivitamins are for you, cut back on salt, limit your alcohol consumption, exercise regularly, get regular check-ups, and ensure adequate sleep.

GUEST POST by Juan Carlos Gonzalez* This post may contain affiliate links.  The author may earn a small commission for any purchases made through these links. Click here for the disclosure statement. No payment has been made to me or will be received by me - as the publisher of this blog - for this post - Walter Adamson.​